Irving Penn (1917-2009) was an American photographer known for his innovative and influential contributions to fashion, portrait, and still life photography. He was born on June 16, 1917, in Plainfield, New Jersey. Penn began his career as a graphic designer and illustrator before transitioning to photography. He started working at Vogue magazine in 1943, where he would remain for much of his career. Penn's work at Vogue helped redefine fashion photography by introducing a fresh and modern approach. Penn's photography was characterized by its meticulous attention to detail, simplicity, and formal elegance. He had a unique ability to capture the essence and personality of his subjects, whether they were fashion models, celebrities, or indigenous tribespeople. He often used a minimalist approach, employing plain backdrops and natural lighting to create a sense of intimacy and focus on the subject. Penn's iconic fashion photographs were renowned for their innovative compositions, inventive use of props, and the way he showcased both the clothing and the individual wearing it. He played with scale, texture, and form, pushing the boundaries of traditional fashion photography. His images had a timeless quality and transcended trends, making them highly influential. In addition to fashion photography, Penn also excelled in portraiture, capturing the essence of renowned individuals such as Pablo Picasso, Audrey Hepburn, Marlene Dietrich, and Salvador Dalí. His portraits were often characterized by their simplicity and directness, allowing the personality and character of his subjects to shine through. Throughout his career, Penn's work was exhibited in prestigious galleries and museums around the world. He received numerous awards and accolades, including the Medal of Arts from the National Endowment for the Arts in 1985. Penn continued to work well into his later years, exploring new subject matter and experimenting with new techniques. Irving Penn passed away on October 7, 2009, in New York City, leaving behind a remarkable body of work that continues to be celebrated and admired for its artistic excellence and lasting impact on the world of photography.
Measures 9.27 x 12
Printed circa 1990s
Verso is blank.
Mounted to archival quality paper.