In an effort to connect the world, Creative Director Anthony Vaccarello takes us on a journey through the lens of six photographers and their take on the Saint Laurent spirit.
Curated by Anthony Vaccarello, the SELF series aims to capture the multifaceted nature of the House through the various interpretations by artists selected by Vaccarello himself. The intersection between fashion and art forms an artistic commentary on society while staying true to the values of the maison. The ability for self-expression and eviction of censorship is indeed the core of the Saint Laurent spirit; the multidisciplinary collaboration enforces the voice of these unique personalities with their own personal twist.
In the latest edition of SELF, the House has engaged three photographers from the international photography cooperative, Magnum Photos, as well as three guest photographers from the honourary collective. These exclusive artworks will be exhibited simultaneously in the different cities — Paris, London, New York, Tokyo, Seoul, and Shanghai, showcasing their individual styles through the blend of both mediums.
*Magnum Guests Photographers
Harry Gruyaert, Magnum Photos for Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello
Belgium photographer, Harry Gruyaert’s distinct photographic style involves working in different environments with contrasting lights or colours. His fascination with airports stems from the concentration of the atmosphere where the interplay of light, transparency, and reflections creates this superimposed effect of the subject and surroundings. Gruyaert’s book ‘Last Call’ comprises images taken in different airports around the world.
Kindled by the juxtaposition between the liminal spaces and a place for limitless fascination, he thought it was the perfect setting to associate the SELF 07 series with. He mentions that “For me, photography is not only a matter of composition or color, it must also speak of the places and the time”. In embarkment on this journey with Saint Laurent, he unveils the bold and vibrant facade of the House through the contrast of the hues in the environment. His work will be fronted in Paris.
Alex Webb, Magnum Photos for Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello
Looking through the lens of street photographer Alex Webb, he enjoys working alongside complex and vivid tones. Inspired by the liveliness of city streets with vibrant colours, bold geometry, layers of light and movement, and the rich diversity, Webb instinctively thought of three culturally-rich downtown neighborhoods— the Pinata District, the Flower District, and the Fashion District for the series.
These three districts are filled with bright graffiti walls and deep shadows, resembling the streets of Mexico. His work captures an enigmatic and mystifying moment with an underlying socio-political message, embodying the liberating characteristics of Saint Laurent. Accompanied by Webb’s past works from Latin America and the Caribbean, they will be displayed together in New York.
Documentary photographer and President of Magnum Photos, Olivia Arthur is renowned for illuminating the personal and cultural identities of her subjects — creating an intimate experience for the viewer. Arthur presents ‘So not So’, a series that explores the human relationship with our bodies, physicality, and the importance of touch and connection. Incorporating movements, interactions, and play, she looks at the physical world in natural and unnatural forms to show how we touch and relate with one another.
With technology taking over our lives, we start to lose touch with genuine reality. Arthur experiments with elements of surrealism and realism to serve as a reminder of humanity’s strength and fragility. She brings forth a sense of ambiguity, presenting a reinvigorating perspective of elegance to Saint Laurent. Arthur’s works will be exhibited in London.
Daesung Lee, Magnum Photos Guest Photographer for Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello
Daesung Lee*, a Korean photographic artist believes in the preservation of memories. In retrospect of the lockdown, he describes it as a surreal yet revitalising experience that allowed him to escape to an imaginary nature of his mind — one where you see and feel your inner self. Lee has gained a keen interest in nature, which led him to work on environmental issues, he brings his vision to life through the exploration and expression of his inner self in visuality.
Lee’s image depicts the blue sky and tall grass, delivering a sense of tranquility. This unveils the striking personality of Saint Laurent. His works will be showcased in Seoul.
Birdhead*, Magnum Photos Guest Photographer for Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello
Birdhead*, the celebrated collective comprised of Ji Weiyu and Song Tao is known for snapshot-like photographs of everyday life unfolding with a twist of their signature style based on the format of a photographic matrix. The duo delves into the symbiotic relationship of existing species, showcasing the tangible connection between each element. Outlined by the cityscape, clothing, and natural elements (clouds, trees, and stones), it creates a seamless blend of integration, just like the cursive script in Chinese calligraphy.
In the adoption of negatives, the intensity in contrast to the images evokes the multifaceted character of Saint Laurent. Their works will be presented in Shanghai.
Takashi Homma*, Magnum Photos Guest Photographer for Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello
The final guest photographer is Takashi Homma*, a Japanese photographer who examines and expresses the nuances of Japanese culture to display the relationship between city and fashion. Although stigmas are heavily imbued in Tokyo’s society, he expresses his artistic freedom with the camera obscura technique to capture the surroundings.
He encapsulates the surroundings and suburban districts in Tokyo, emanating the peppiness of the House. His works will be unveiled in Tokyo.
This story first appeared on L’officiel Singapore!
RELATED ARTICLES
