| Herb Ritts, Versace Dress, El Mirage, 1990 |
Yesterday, I went to the Edwynn Houk Gallery on 5th Avenue to see the Herb Ritts show. While researching New York photography exhibits, I learned it was the final day of this show and acted on impulse; hopping a train to the gallery two hours before these sublime works were to come down from the walls. I'm so glad I did.
Upon entering the gallery, I was met by the strong graphic form and highly contrasted linear compositions in most of Ritts' photos. Images composed of geometric abstractions in striking blacks, whites, and subtle grays jumped from every wall in the gallery. Though Ritts was a fashion photographer, garments seemed to be secondary to his classical depiction of the human figure and eye for geometry. Many of subjects were 80's and early 90's pop icons, but the work is timeless due to his elegant use of graphic form, classical human figure, nature's forces, and quiet emotion. Along with his unique vision, his sometimes obvious nod to the work of Man Ray made this show a favorite for me. Glad I got see the formal prints in person; I'll be influenced by his work for years to come.
ps. Since the gallery is near Central Park, I grabbed my camera and a couple of rolls of film on my way out the door so I could go to the Park later and shoot. Maybe my Hassie soaked in some nice Herb Ritts vibes while at the show? Time will tell ;)
Upon entering the gallery, I was met by the strong graphic form and highly contrasted linear compositions in most of Ritts' photos. Images composed of geometric abstractions in striking blacks, whites, and subtle grays jumped from every wall in the gallery. Though Ritts was a fashion photographer, garments seemed to be secondary to his classical depiction of the human figure and eye for geometry. Many of subjects were 80's and early 90's pop icons, but the work is timeless due to his elegant use of graphic form, classical human figure, nature's forces, and quiet emotion. Along with his unique vision, his sometimes obvious nod to the work of Man Ray made this show a favorite for me. Glad I got see the formal prints in person; I'll be influenced by his work for years to come.
ps. Since the gallery is near Central Park, I grabbed my camera and a couple of rolls of film on my way out the door so I could go to the Park later and shoot. Maybe my Hassie soaked in some nice Herb Ritts vibes while at the show? Time will tell ;)