Diane Arbus: Sanctum Sanctorum

Diane Arbus challenged conventional notions of beauty and normalcy, by capturing subjects that were frequently overlooked or stigmatized. Sanctum Sanctorum features photographs made in intimate settings across New York, New Jersey, California, and London between 1961 and 1971, embracing a vast spectrum of humanity: debutantes, nudists, celebrities, aspiring celebrities, socialites, transvestites, babies, widows, circus performers, lovers, female impersonators, and a blind couple in their bedroom. Published on the occasion of the exhibitions presented jointly by David Zwirner, London, and Fraenkel Gallery, San Francisco, Sanctum Sanctorum is an invaluable addition to the understanding of one of the most daring and transformative photographers of the twentieth century.Images from the estate of Diane Arbus, with the artist’s captions.Published on the occasion of the 2025 exhibition at David Zwirner Gallery/Fraenklin Gallery.