Sheen

Aristide Maillol (1861-1944), Woman sat on her heels, Circa 1900, Bronze (currently at the Musee d'Orsay /// 'Gloss' Editorial for Love Magazine #5

When I came across this stunning editorial the glossy sheen of the model's skin had the same smooth contours that one might see in marble. I began looking for a specific work on display in the Musee d'Orsay in 2007 but then stumbled upon this simple work by Maillol. The striking and improbable similarities between a human figure and that of a bronze statue make one wonder the amount of photoshop used, and if the photo is manipulated to a great extent does it then become a work of art in its own right?

Looking at this post months later (Sept 2011), it amazes me that the statue looks softer than the model.

Top of my Head

Dazed & Confused August 2010// Whistler's Mother, James McNeill Whistler, 1871

I kept this picture from Dazed for quite a while because I knew its solemn and monochromatic scheme reminded me of something but I could never remember what it was. Well this somber fashion spread reminded me of an artist's simple tribute to a mother. Having recently seen this painting at the de Young in SF it finally came to me what this picture was reminiscent of. Enjoy.

No Homework Tonight

WIlliam de Kooning, Untitled I, 1981/// Elle Serbia February 2011

The vibrancy and action in both of these images can be seen in the broad strokes of de Koonings brush and in the translucent sleeves of the model's red blouse. The reflection of Laurence Passera's camera light behind the clothes creates a movement much like the action painting style that was de Kooning's preferred technique. Another similarity is the simple use of color to evoke a greater feeling of style. When both are placed next to one another their colors become enhanced, becoming brighter and more pleasing.

Frida

Marxism Will Give Health to the Sick - Frida Kahlo. Oil on panel. 1954// Vogue Australia March 2011


The vibrant and warm colors featured in both of these works was the first element that led to the comparison of these two images. Both works are clustered with a lot of noise in the background, leading to a less focused view on the main subject. However, both works also manage to construct a feminine individuality within the model. Both are passionate, exotic, sharp and succeed in exercising the eye by sending it all throughout the work.




OR MAYBE THIS ONE MAKES MORE SENSE.. from the same Vogue spread as the other, I couldn't decide between the two:

Pablo's Everywhere

Vogue Italia February 2011// Picasso, demoiselles d'avignon 1907

I know I've already compared an editorial to demoiselles d'avignon, but I see the contorted and colorful women in most fashion spreads. I especially saw it in this Italian Vogue spread from Feb 2011. The hidden faces of the two side figures contrasted with the frontal gaze of the center model really evokes the way demoiselles confronts the viewer.