When the Photographische Sammlung / SK Stiftung Kultur in Cologne, Germany invited Mitch Epstein to make an exhibition in 2006 of his work from past to present, it was the perfect opportunity to fill a gap in his publishing history. Widely acknowledged as one of the world's most distinguished art photographers, here, for the first time, Epstein has gathered his photographs together into a book that presents the span of his career. Mitch Epstein: Work allows readers to trace the evolution of his formal and thematic concerns. We see how his aesthetic views, photographic tools, and politics have transformed and influenced one another over time. This book offers a look at each of Epstein's major projects-"Common Practice" (1973-1989); "Vietnam" (1992-1995); "The City" (1995-1998); "Family Business" (2000-2003), and his current, ongoing "American Power." His early work on the theme of recreation is given its most natural yet unexpected configuration: images from the United States are mixed with those from other parts of the world. A short essay by the artist or an excerpt from his previously published writings orients each chapter. The book includes a DVD of his film, "Dad," and texts by writers Eliot Weinberger and Mia Fineman; the cocurators Dr.

Susanne Lange and Gabi Conrath-Scholl; and Dr. Martin Hochleitner from the Landesgalerie Linz. All who have come to know and admire Epstein's books as carefully wrought artworks in their own right will be rewarded by this survey. Many of the pictures here have never before been seen, let alone published. For Epstein fans and for those who would like an introduction to the artist's work, this book is a necessary addition to their library.