Marshall McLuhan, a 20th century philosopher, famously said, “Politics would eventually be replaced with imagery.” As Donald J. Trump assumes office today, his prediction is coming true.
Beginning to take shape Photographers are now the new historians.
Matt McClain sat with Donald Trump on Tuesday, January 17th, for just under 3 minutes. McClain was inspired by the 1941 portrait of Winston Churhill by Armenian-Canadian photographer Yousuf Karash. McClain wanted to create what he called “A power portrait.”
Churchill gave Karsh only two minutes. The iconic image was created by the photographer after he removed the cigar from Churchill’s mouth.
McClain’s Trump photo session was not as rocky but was still historic. In the video, you can see McClain pacing before the shoot. But, he said to the Post that everything went smoothly.
McLuhan’s prediction of the future of images was summed up in the line, “The politician would be happy to abdicate his position in favor of the image because it will be more powerful than the politician could ever be.” It is hard to ignore the importance of this photograph.