Icons: Portraits by Andy Gotts

Andy Gotts is a photographer who has spent the last ten years creating a book called ICONS, filled with iconic faces from movies, cinema, and fashion. His unique portrait style, often taken quickly and face-on, is admired for capturing the charisma of famed sitters. Gotts was awarded an MBE in 2012 for his contribution to photography.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 02 September 2021
Publisher: Scala Arts & Heritage Publishers Ltd

Andy Gotts, a renowned photographer, has dedicated the past ten years to creating a captivating book titled "ICONS." This remarkable publication showcases a collection of the most iconic faces from movies, cinema, and fashion. Accompanying this book is the "ICONS" exhibition, which will be showcased at the esteemed Maddox Galleries, a world-renowned venue.

Gotts' artistic strength lies in his direct and uncompromising black-and-white portraits. These portraits are full of intensity, sometimes capturing the raw and unpolished details of complexion, while other times displaying a mischievous wit and unexpected charm. What sets Gotts' portraits apart is their unforgettable quality, leaving a lasting impression on the viewer.

Stephen Fry, a renowned actor and writer, has praised Gotts' work, stating, "His forté is the absolutely direct black and white portrait, full-on, sometimes grainy and remorseless in the detailing of complexion, sometimes mischievously witty and unexpected, always completely unforgettable." Tom Hanks, another renowned actor, also expressed his admiration for Gotts, calling him a genius of his craft.

In 1990, Gotts, then a young photography student at Norfolk College of Arts and Technology, had the opportunity to meet Stephen Fry at an event. Gotts approached Fry with a request for a portrait, and their encounter led to a brief but impactful photographic session. During this session, Gotts realized that he had found his photographic approach. He described it as a moment of eureka, where a significant weight was lifted from his shoulders, and he knew that celebrity portraits were his calling.

Gotts' unique portrait style is characterized by rapid takes and often face-on shots. His approach is admired for capturing the charisma and essence of renowned sitters like Kylie Minogue, Meryl Streep, Harrison Ford, and Kirk Douglas. His quick-fire and chatty demeanor earned him the nickname "One Shot Gotts" from Paul Newman, who appreciated his ability to capture the perfect shot in a single frame.

What sets Gotts' photographs apart is his naturalistic approach. He eschews the use of airbrushing and heavy styling, preferring to let the subjects' natural beauty shine through. His photographs are raw and authentic, capturing the true essence of the individuals he portrays.

In recognition of his contributions to photography, Andy Gotts was awarded an MBE in 2012. His dedication and talent have left an indelible mark on the world of photography, and his work continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

In conclusion, Andy Gotts has spent the past ten years creating a masterpiece of a book titled "ICONS." His direct and uncompromising black-and-white portraits, accompanied by the "ICONS" exhibition at Maddox Galleries, showcase the iconic faces that have left a lasting impact on movies, cinema, and fashion. Gotts' unique style, characterized by rapid takes and naturalistic approach, has earned him widespread admiration and recognition. His dedication to his craft has earned him an MBE, and his work continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

Weight: 1684g
Dimension: 254 x 304 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785513718