Elgort’s photographs “have about them the ease of a personal snap while creating pictures that have become thoroughly iconic. [Arthur] has an inquiring, roving eye that is always on the lookout for sudden unexpected moments to keep the pictures sparkling fresh.” – Grace Coddington, Creative Director, American Vogue
Arthur Elgort, one of the most influential and emulated fashion photographers working today and best known for his groundbreaking work in Vogue, will be in Toronto at Izzy Gallery (106 Yorkville) on October 9, 2014 to open the first exhibit of his work in Canada: “The Big Picture”.
“We’re honoured to show Arthur Elgort’s work for the first time in Canada”, said gallery owner Izzy Sulemanji, “Elgort pushed the boundaries of fashion photography creating a freer, more spontaneous style full of movement inspired by his love of jazz and dance.”
The exhibit at Izzy Gallery will include a captivating selection of 22 of Arthur’s fashion photographs. Some highlights being shown in large format are a 1981 photo of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards taken at the video shoot for “Neighbours”; Kate Moss posing with elephants in Nepal 1993 for British Vogue; Linda Evangelista 1989 in NYC for French Vogue and UK model Jeny Howorth 1987 perched in fur and feathers on a stone wall against the sky and ocean in Southampton for Pelle.
Arthur’s relaxed and liberated “snap shot” style, which emphasizes movement and natural light, blew a breath of fresh air into a world where completely curated shoots and mannequin like models were the norm.
For over 40 years Arthur’s unique take on fashion has appeared regularly on the covers and in the spreads of Vogue, as well as other top fashion magazines. He has shot important advertising campaigns for leading fashion houses including Yves St Laurent, Chanel, Valentino, and Oscar del la Renta. His photographs are included in prestigious public and private collections all around the world. In 2011 he received the Board of Directors’ Special Tribute award from the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). His photographs are included in prestigious public and private collections throughout the world including the International Center for Photography, New York; Victoria and Albert Museum, London; and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.
Born and raised in New York, Arthur studied painting, but soon moved on to photography. His 1971 debut in British Vogue created a sensation and a permanent place for him in the world of fashion photography. He quickly became one of the best known and most emulated photographers in the industry. His style which transcended the norms, changed fashion photography; the idea of what it is and what it could be.
Arthur Elgort: The Big Picture is at Izzy Gallery, 106 Yorkville Ave, Toronto, from Thursday, October 9, 2014 until November 29, 2014.
