Freedom

Azzedine Alaïa and Arthur Elgort collaborated in the 1970s to redefine fashion photography, capturing the feminine ideal on the street and in everyday life. Their work will be exhibited at the Fondation Azzedine Alaïa in Paris from January 22 to June 29, 2023.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 16 March 2023
Publisher: Damiani

In the vibrant 1970s, Azzedine Alaïa and Arthur Elgort embarked on a remarkable journey, even though they were yet to cross paths. The former astutely observed a significant shift in the realm of fashion, realizing that it had transcended the confines of salons and had found its true essence on the streets. Alaïa's vision was crystal clear: fashion was no longer confined to exclusive settings, but could be appreciated and celebrated in the everyday lives of people.

Meanwhile, Arthur Elgort, a young photographer for the esteemed English edition of Vogue, was in the midst of crafting a revolutionary new vision for photography. His snapshots would soon define a lighter, more informal photographic style, characterized by immense spontaneity. At the same time, Alaïa was witnessing his feminine ideal manifest itself on the streets, embraced by an ever-growing number of clients. The fashion designer saw the woman he envisioned embodied in the vibrant energy of the street, walking with determination and independence.

As these two creative forces converged, they embarked on a collaborative endeavor that would redefine the representation of the assertive, determined, and independent woman. Both Alaïa and Elgort actively contributed to this renewal, leaving their respective studios and embracing the natural and urban landscapes as new settings for their artistic expressions. Their collaboration, spanning decades, is now celebrated in an upcoming exhibition at the Fondation Azzedine Alaïa in Paris, scheduled from January 22 to June 29, 2023. The exhibition, accompanied by a comprehensive monograph titled "Freedom," showcases more than 150 timeless classic black-and-white pictures, capturing the essence of their enduring partnership.

Through their combined efforts, Azzedine Alaïa and Arthur Elgort not only revolutionized fashion photography but also left an indelible mark on the representation of women in the world of art and fashion. Their collaboration serves as a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and the ability to push boundaries, shaping the cultural landscape for generations to come.

Weight: 1076g
Dimension: 248 x 335 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788862087957