"White Mischief" Vogue 1993 Helmut Newton

What was lost has been found!

I have been looking for this particular editorial for the past 10 years, and I finally found it! 

When I was 12 I was an avid reader of American Vogue and when this issue came in the mail I ran up to my room to read it cover to cover. Back then I had a pretty regular view of beauty, I gravitated towards the Cindy Crawford/Marilyn Monroe sort of glamour. I really hadn't registered the darker side of femininity. Well, as soon as I turned the first page of this spread I started to feel like I was looking at something I wasn't supposed to, something I would be embarrassed to let my mom know that I had. Certainly something I wouldn't be sharing with anyone else. I was a little surprised, and disturbed, but I loved it all! Who knew summer whites could be so dark and seedy. Who knew role playing and hooker heels could be so powerful. A woman playing a man being dominated by a glamazon? A boredom with luxury?  The suggestion of a holiday devoted to naughty indulgence? These were concepts I had not considered before. These were images forever burned into my brain. This was the moment that transformed my outlook on fashion, art, photography and sex. Helmut Newton became my hero. 

In other words: MY MIND WAS BLOWN.

It is amazingly satisfying and a little disappointing to find something you have been obsessing over. The search is over, mystery solved... now what?

xoxo

Influence: The Dark Side

I adore Helmut Newton and his powerful influence on the fashion editorial, pop culture, and fine art photography. His images have heavily swayed my artistic tastes and even my desire to major in photography in college. I recently came across the George Michael video by accident, but as soon as I watched it I remembered vividly how obsessed I had been with it. It too is obviously referencing Newton to some extent. Some may take offense, but it cannot be denied that his immense collection of work has taken it's toll on all that has come since.

Helmut Newton You're My Hero

I love Helmut Newton's work. Some people would argue that he hates women and that his photographs are demeaning. I totally disagree. There is nothing more powerful than a sexy woman and he knew how to put that idea in your face. This photo of Daryl Hannah circa 1980's is such a statement. The amazon who can't be troubled with a crying baby. The baby of course representing real life, motherhood, sacrifice. The amazon representing fantasy, perfection, and sex. It's a little bit troubling, very strange, and somehow inspiring.