Mel Rosenthal, the photographer and teacher whose “In the South Bronx of America” showcased his passion for the underdog, is remembered by Ricky Flores, one of his many former students.
When I decided in 1980 to be a photographer, I went out and started taking pictures of my family, friends and neighborhood. I was a typical beginner, even if I didn’t live in your typical neighborhood: This was the South Bronx during the era when arson and abandonment fueled by government dysfunction turned it into a globally-infamous and desolate urban landscape.
Mel Rosenthal, an impassioned photographer and a mentor to many, is retiring from his teaching position at Empire State College. Michael Kamber, a former student, talked to him about his career.
I said: “I’m not an artist; I’m a messenger.” I go to a place to see what’s going on, bring it back for people to see, then I go to the next place. So I decided I would do half-shooting and half-teaching. It was great. I was able to teach and mentor and make my photos too.
