What a thrill to view Richard Avedon’s fashion photography spanning the better half of the 20th century at the ICP (International Center of Photography).  His images and craftsmanship work on so many levels.  Much of the work is in black and white.  The photographs are clean, bold, and full of action and life.  It is fascinating to see some of the most beautiful fashion models dressed in elegant gowns roller skating across European cities, or posing with elephants or circus clowns.   The contrasts between characters or characters with their fashionable clothing and their locations are so powerful.  Avedon found the richness in every little detail as if his role as photographer was more of a film director.  His sense of composition is strong and dynamic.  This is exhibited either through the model and their position or movement (in some photos you wonder how the person is even holding the pose) or the framing.  In all cases we are drawn, irresistibly, into the image and the world created.  And what a world.  Full of elegance, passion, beauty and romance.  There are no outward concerns in Avedon’s photographs.  As is also true of this wonderful exhibit that reminds us of what can be in art, photography and in fashion.  Enjoy.

Photo credit: Richard Avedon Foundation 2009