On the eve of Richard Avedon's centenary birthday, Galerie Gagosian in Paris's Rue de Ponthieu pays tribute to the legendary photographer 's visionary genius with a free retrospective exhibition running until March 2, 2024: Iconic Avedon.
Born in New York in 1923, Avedon revolutionized photography, capturing the essence of his models with unprecedented ingenuity. The exhibition highlights his artistic evolution, from his first forays into fashion in the 1940s, when he also set up his own studio, to his global influence on the cultural scene of the 20th century.
From Harper's Bazaar to Vogue, Richard Avedon produced some of the most remarkable fashion images. In the wake of his success, the greatest personalities of the day flocked to his door, waiting to have their portraits taken by his precious lens. The photographer immortalized icons such as Marilyn Monroe, Bob Dylan and the Beatles, and his iconic portraits are now (re)discoverable in the heart of the 8th arrondissement gallery.
On the sidelines and post-FashionWeek Haute Couture, the exhibition focuses on the photographer's deep ties with Paris, his first muse, as he captured runway collections and collaborated with legendary designers such as Christian Dior. Among his best-known Paris photographs,"Dovima and the Elephants" (1955) has become the most expensive fashion shot in history.
Beyond glamour, Avedon constantly reinvented himself, always in search of new artistic territories. Thephoto exhibition explores the diversity of his work, from striking portraits of celebrities to those of illustrious unknowns who have also been elevated to the rank of icons, as evidenced by the "In the American West" series, among others. A jack-of-all-trades, he also tried his hand atself-portraits, creating poignant, unfiltered images.
The retrospective offers an intimate look at the life and work of Richard Avedon, whose lasting influence transcends the simple cliché. Charlie Chaplin, Andy Warhol, Coco Chanel... - these masterpieces by the"icon-maker" are on show in Paris, a dazzling tribute to the artist who continues to fascinate and inspire. Galerie Gagosian unveils an exciting journey through the last century, celebrating a master of photography whose influence endures.
Dates and Opening Time
From January 23, 2024 to March 2, 2024
Location
Gagosian Paris
4 Rue de Ponthieu
75008 Paris 8
Access
M1: Franklin D. Roosevelt
Prices
Free
Official website
gagosian.com
