Irving Penn was undoubtedly one of the worlds most extraordinary men, an outstanding 20th century visual artist who lived his dream and had a sensational career spanning seven decades. Penn never lost his creative brilliance, his vision or his ability to capture and convey the beauty and simplicity of the world and all the objects within it. This genius is encapsulated in every photograph he ever took whether the subject was a celebrity, aborigine tribesmen, cigarette butts or San Francisco hippies the images projected such deep and powerful emotion that his work became incredibly distinctive. Penn wanted his work to speak to its viewer and initiate reaction, he gave his photographs all of the passion, energy and creativity he had within him so much so that he revolutionised the fashion, art and photography worlds and became immortal as his work will last through the ages.
Penn discovered at an early age that he possessed artistic talent and attended the Pennsylvania Museum School of Industrial Art from which he graduated in 1938. One of his first career achievements was having drawings published in Harpers Bazaar which was and still is one of the most popular and influential fashion magazines in the world. As Penn evolved gaining understanding of visual communication and the effect it has on the public his career as a photographer blossomed. He initially became known for post World War two feminine glamour images before venturing into fashion photography particularly for industry leader Vogue magazine during the early 1940’s. In 1944 Penn left Vogue to join the US military in Italy and journeyed to India where he developed his skills. Vogue welcomed him back in 1946 to continue his unorthodox yet inspiring fashion work and undertake travel assignments, his association with this publication would last for many years.
In 1953 an unassuming plain studio in New York opened its doors and Penn turned his attention to portraiture adopting a rarely used technique that would see him become a pioneer as he was able to use it more effectively than any other photographer. Subjects pose against simple white or grey backdrops, carefully organised even sometimes unusual arrangements were used to create striking composition and a calm, skilful and focused approach fused with soft and sensuous natural light became a recipe for greatness. By photographing for hours at a time Penn was able to allow a relaxed subject to open up and truthfully reveal the secrets of their souls through emotion and expression, as a result each image contains the energy and personality of its focus. Penn’s photographs had deep meaning, his feelings, nature and appreciation for natural beauty leaked through the lens and every click of the camera was purposeful, honest and always had the viewer in mind. In a 1991 interview with the New York Times he explained that he was constantly trying to ‘intrigue, stimulate and feed’ the spectator. This is evident in the way that his images evoke curiosity, penetrate your thoughts and entice you by drawing you into them with warmth, sharpness and detail. It is this unique creative power that has ensured Penn’s place as a master of photography, he has inspired others to attempt the technique he championed and many have continued his legacy by exhibiting his images or publishing books to celebrate his life’s work.
An impressive career was only one aspect of Penn’s life, he was blessed with a happy personal life and loving family that had a profound impact on what he created. Irving Penn fist met Swedish model Lisa Fonssagrives at a fashion shoot, the two were married in 1950 and Lisa, his soul mate and collaborator for 42 years remained his favorite subject until her death in 1992. The couple had one son, Tom Penn now a respected designer and Mia a daughter from Lisa’s previous marriage. Irving Penn passed away on 7th October 2009. It is important to recognise and celebrate the remarkable achievements of a phenomenal man who’s lifelong commitment to beauty and excellence will never be forgotten.
P.S - This piece was part of my portfolio for Uni, i just found it and remembered how much i enjoyed looking at Irving Penn's work and writing about his life.
No comments:
Post a Comment