Norman Parkinson: Revolutionary Strides
March 17- April 17, 2024
“The camera can be the most deadly weapon since the assassin’s bullet. Or it can be the lotion of the heart.”
Norman Parkinson is nothing short of a true visionary when it comes to the world of fashion photography. His keen eye and quirky, free-spirited nature led his work to absolutely redefine the "do's and don'ts" present in the traditional realm of fashion photography. Regarded for his bold direction, especially when it came to the posing of his models and the relinquishing his photoshoot spaces from that of the typical studio setting, Parkinson made revolutionary strides with his work. Dedicating this curation to Norman Parkinson's stunning photographs is also nodding to all the visionaries who continue to carve new paths, and set new precedents for what is to come.
Wenda Parkinson's journey with Norman Parkinson began as an actress and blossomed into a dynamic partnership, both in marriage and creativity. Together, they revolutionized the world of fashion photography, and Wenda became Norman's muse in every sense of the word. Their bond, both personal and professional, beautifully embodies the essence of what it means to inspire and be inspired.
Amidst a sea of majestic ostriches, Wenda stands tall, radiating poise and beauty. Her ensemble, a chic white blouse paired with classic blue jeans, effortlessly captures the timeless nature of this image. This image is a visual representation of the era's obsession with jet-set air travel and the allure of exploring exotic places. It's also a delightful reminder that fashion doesn't always have to take itself too seriously!
Norman Parkinson was never afraid to test the boundaries of where fashion photography would land on the social spectrum. This historic photoshoot, noteworthy for being among the first Western film crews permitted behind the Iron Curtain, covered a remarkable journey spanning over 7,000 km across Soviet lands. The striking black and white image of Hall, encapsulates not only the beauty of the model but also the expansive cultural backdrop of the Soviet Union, a rare glimpse offered to the Western audience of the time.
Norman Parkinson was highly regarded as one of the 20th century's "photographers for the stars." His works landed him in the homes of many prominent figures at this time, including the great Yves Saint Laurent. This photograph taken in Saint Laurent's Rue de Babylone garden is a testament to Parkinson's ability to portray a candid tableau that reflects both the intimacy of their relationship and their collective artistic spirit.
