#USA #New York #Leica Gallery #Bruce Gilden #8 Days in Napoli

`8 Days in Napoli`: An Intimate Journey through Naples

Leica Gallery has proudly announced its latest exhibition, 8 Days in Napoli, featuring the extraordinary work of legendary Magnum photographer Bruce Gilden. This exhibition highlights never-before-seen portraits captured during Gilden's eight-day immersion into the vibrant life of Naples, Italy. Running from September 25 to November 2, 2025, it promises to be an unfiltered look at the city's humanity, delivered through Gilden's unmistakable lens.

The Artistic Vision of Bruce Gilden

Known for his raw and engaging portraiture, Gilden's approach in 8 Days in Napoli blends his signature style—intimate, flash-lit, and direct. This body of work casts aside any pretense, pulling the audience into a realm where they can meet the true essence of the Neapolitan people. Each portrait serves as a testament to Gilden’s unwavering commitment to capturing life in its most honest form. As poet Max Blagg articulated in his introduction to the accompanying book, Gilden's work reveals a finely honed artistic edge, allowing viewers to confront the depths of his subjects' realities.

Throughout these eight days, Gilden roamed the colorful streets of Naples, engaging with its locals, who became the muses for this emotionally charged project. His flash not only illuminated faces but also uncovered stories hidden within each gaze. “Witnessing his connection to the people of the city gave me an appreciation for the way he captures unfiltered humanity,” reflects Mike Giannattasio, President of Leica USA, who accompanied Gilden on this journey.

Launch of the Leica Libretto Book Series

Complementing the exhibition is the launch of the Leica Libretto book series, dedicated to celebrating influential photographic narratives through focused storytelling. The 8 Days in Napoli book marks its inaugural release, presenting Gilden's work in a compact, collectible format that makes profound photography accessible to both seasoned collectors and new audiences alike.

Leica USA’s dedication to supporting artists culminates in this project, embodying their ethos of precision and narrative storytelling rooted in genuine experiences. The launch of the In Conversation With series also reiterates this commitment, featuring a candid discussion between Gilden and Blagg that promises to provide insights into their creative processes.

Exhibition Events and Engagement

The opening reception for 8 Days in Napoli will occur on September 25 from 6 PM to 8 PM, offering attendees a firsthand experience of Gilden's remarkable portraits. Following this, a special in-conversation event featuring the artist himself and Blagg will take place on September 26 at 6:30 PM, culminating in a book signing opportunity for fans and supporters.

Additionally, from September 22 to 26, Gilden will lead a masterclass titled Be Yourself: A Masterclass with Bruce Gilden, guiding aspiring photographers in crafting their distinct street photography styles. Participants will learn how to approach their subjects confidently, emphasizing discretion and authenticity in their work.

Exhibition Details

Hours of Operation:
Leica Gallery New York operates Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 6 PM, and Sunday, 12 PM to 5 PM.
Address:
406 W 13th St., New York, NY 10014.
Phone: 332-222-1690

As Leica celebrates its legacy ahead of the 100th anniversary of the Leica I, which revolutionized photography in 1925, 8 Days in Napoli stands as a notable tribute to the company's enduring spirit of artistic exploration. In featuring Bruce Gilden, Leica Gallery New York invites all to witness an exceptional portrayal of life, art, and storytelling—the very essence of what photography should embody.