Gallery CAMERA WORK presents the exhibition »Angels and Icons« of Russell James, starting on April 13, 2019. The exhibition presents more than 40 new works of the »new generation of supermodels« with Lily Aldridge, Alessandra Ambrosio, Toni Garrn, Gigi Hadid, Martha Hunt, Kendall Jenner, Sara Sampaio, and many more. In close collaboration with the supermodels, Russell James breaks the boundaries of a traditional approach in the field of nude photography and consequently redefines the understanding of nude photography in photographic art. In addition to the series »Angels«, the exhibition includes main works of Russell James from previous years.
»Angels and Icons« is a comprehensive solo show of Russell James. The main part of the exhibition contains new works that were created from 2016 to 2018. Most of them are shown for the first time worldwide. Russell James has developed a different view on nude photography; his way of work distinguishes him from other photographers in this field who are focused on traditional methods. By doing so, Russell James has a major influence on contemporary nude and fashion photography. The defining characteristics are neither defined by the male view on the nude nor the impact of the nude in commercial messages. Instead, in Russell James’ works, the portrayed supermodels are looking at themselves, they stage themselves, and they present their individual personalities. They are staging themselves based on their own visual concepts, that are then realized with Russell James. Since the photographs are exclusively created for the »Angels« series, they were not taken for commercial reasons based on a consignment. Consequently, the works are considered as a contemporary testimony of transition of nude photography in which the supermodels are questioning their own identity.
Russell James
Russell James (*1962 in Perth) ranks among the world’s most prestigious contemporary portrait and nude photographers. His works are regularly published in magazines such as » Vogue «, » W «, » American Photo «, or » GQ «. Today, Russell James is working with the most beautiful and most famous supermodels of our time. For many years he has been the official photographer for Victoria’s Secret. His unique aesthetics also reflects the cultural roots of his origins. The incredible landscapes and lighting conditions in Australia, but also in Cuba or the Bahamas have influenced Russell James’ works and give them an incomparable visual language. The artist is also well-known for his art project entitled » Nomad Two Worlds « – a series, that is inspired by the global consequences of the clash of cultures in Australia. Moreover, » Nomad Two Worlds « is an artistic result of the history of Australia and its political narrative that has become a worldwide blueprint for reconciliation. Since 2009, and with supporters such as Donna Karan, Hugh Jackman and the Australian government, » Nomad Two Worlds « has been presented in Berlin – in cooperation with CAMERA WORK – and at the National Gallery of Victoria in Australia, amongst others. Russell James lives and works in New York City.
Russell James : Angels and Icons
April 13 to June 8, 2019
CAMERA WORK
Kantstrasse 149
10623 Berlin · Germany
