This book explores the enduring art of portraiture through the lens of contemporary photographers and historical masters. The collaboration between John Shimon and Julie Lindemann, utilizing a blend of antique and modern techniques, captures the essence of individuals from their native Wisconsin. Their original photographs are presented alongside a curated selection from the Museum's Collection, featuring iconic artists and historical photographic processes, to foster new interpretations of the portrait genre.

This exhibition catalog and accompanying show, 'Unmasked & Anonymous,' are the result of a significant two-year collaboration between photographers John Shimon and Julie Lindemann and the Milwaukee Art Museum. The project aims to present fresh perspectives on portraiture by juxtaposing contemporary works with historical pieces. The critical reception of such a curated exhibition would likely focus on the dialogue created between different eras and styles of portrait photography, as well as the specific artistic choices made by Shimon and Lindemann in their engagement with their subjects and the medium.