The Hollywood photograph is part of our cultural history, documenting as it does, the development and growth of a uniquely American industry. Some are significant works of art in their own right. Thoughtless of the future, some film studios and periodicals, even Photographers themselves, discarded old negatives and prints, or stored them haphazardly. We have already lost too many through deterioration and disposal. If these fragile and irreplaceable images are allowed to disappear, they can never be recaptured.

Solution:

Fortunately, we have come to realize that these fast disappearing works substantially shaped and influenced the lives of most twentieth century Americans, and will provide an invaluable visual resource for present and future generations. However, as in the case of other endangered species, it is crucial to act now.

The aim of MPTV is to provide a permanent photography center with a special emphasis on the Hollywood photograph and the creative achievements of the Photographers.

Q. What is the main emphasis of the MPTV Collection?
A. The core collection of MPTV emphasizes the work of still Photographers whose subject matter is primarily the Entertainment industry.

Q. Are any other Photographers included?
A. Beside the work of those artists specially associated with the film industry, (like Bob Willoughby, John Engstead, David Sutton, to name a few), we also represent images by artists like George Hurrell, William Mortenson, Will Connell, and many others when their imagery relates to the entertainment industry.

Q. What are your central activities?
A. In addition to servicing all media with our Photographer's images, we strive to preserve, promote and exhibit our collection.

Q. Where does your collection of photographs come from?
A. We represent over 45 Photographers, photographer's estates, private collectors, and personal collections of celebrities.

Q. What differentiates MPTV from other Agencys or organizations that have photo collections?
A. Our emphasis is on the still Photographers themselves, rather than the stars portrayed. Our goal is to bring attention to their creative achievements, an important, but largely neglected part of American photographic history.