Tante Simone, Dominique Nabokov

Dominique Nabokov's memoir and photographs capture the essence of her aunt Simone's house,a place of childhood memories and Hollywood dreams. The book follows her Living Rooms series and is her most personal project.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 24 April 2023
Publisher: Apartamento Publishing S.L.v

Dominique Nabokov, a renowned photographer, embarked on a captivating journey to create a memoir that would encapsulate the essence of a cherished house and the universe that shaped her destiny. Raised by her aunt Simone in the picturesque French town of Compiègne, Dominique's upbringing was a harmonious blend of everyday moments and vivid daydreams fueled by her deep fascination with Hollywood and its iconic stars.

After her aunt's passing in 1999, Dominique made a heartfelt decision to preserve the house, capturing its untouched state through photographs. This book, a testament to Dominique's celebrated Living Rooms series, delves into the intimate realms of the cultural elite in New York, Paris, and Berlin, three cities that played pivotal roles in her artistic journey.

Our collaboration with Dominique on this project marks our fourth partnership, spanning over a decade, and represents her most personal endeavor to date. The photographs, accompanied by a vivid memoir penned by Gini Alhadeff, offer a glimpse into the extraordinary life story of a photographer whose work has resonated with audiences worldwide.

Dominique's journey began in a detached house nestled within a modest garden, where her aunt's love and guidance shaped her early years. The surrounding environment fostered a sense of tranquility and creativity, nurturing Dominique's artistic inclinations from a young age.

As she grew older, Dominique's fascination with Hollywood and its stars became an all-consuming passion. She would spend hours poring over magazines, watching movies, and daydreaming about the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. The allure of Hollywood's golden era and the stories of its legendary actors and actresses captivated her imagination, fueling her desire to create her own visual narrative.

Despite the allure of Hollywood, Dominique's heart remained rooted in her hometown of Compiègne. The city's charm, history, and the close-knit community that surrounded her provided a nurturing environment for her artistic growth. Dominique's aunt's house, with its warm and inviting atmosphere, became a sanctuary where she could retreat and explore her creativity.

After her aunt's passing, Dominique felt a deep sense of responsibility to preserve the memory of the house and the person behind it. She decided to photograph the house, capturing its every detail and preserving the essence of the place that had played such a significant role in her life. The photographs, taken over several years, serve as a visual record of the house's history and the memories it held.

In addition to the photographs, Dominique collaborated with Gini Alhadeff to write a memoir that would provide a deeper understanding of her life and artistic journey. The memoir, interspersed with Dominique's own words and Alhadeff's insightful interview, offers a glimpse into the extraordinary life of a photographer who has defied conventions and pushed the boundaries of creativity.

Dominique's journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of memories. Through her photographs and memoir, she has created a lasting legacy that celebrates the beauty of everyday life and the transformative power of creativity. This book serves as a tribute to Dominique's remarkable talent and the enduring spirit of the house that shaped her destiny.

ISBN-13: 9788409472758