Boston: MFA: Mario Testino

I am BEYOND thrilled about Mario Testino's exhibits "In Your Face" and "British Royal Portraits" at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts! I have been a fan of this Vogue and Vanitfy Fair photographer for so long that I couldn't even believe this exhibit was in town. When I was invited to go to the press preview yesterday, I was blown away, so thank you Sami for bringing me along! Sami, Lei Ann and I had a spot of tea beforehand to get into the spirit of things.

"In Your Face" is provocative, rich, seductive, inspiring, elegant and iconic all at once, a feast for the senses. Even the installation itself, with the subtle emanation of light around each photo frame against the teal blue wall, creates an engaging "window" for us to peek into. It's visually appealing, shameless yet compelling. Each photograph is more surreal than the last; the next more aesthetically pleasing than even possible!

Testino's work spanning 30 years, is a showcase of celebrities and models and offers us a glimpse into their world, but doesn't stop there, sometimes revealing the most daring and private of encounters, all blatantly exposed in celebration of beauty and fashion.

In contrast there are the "British Royal Portraits" a complete juxtaposition of worlds. Here we have the very private lives of the Royal Family presented in a touching, classy and completely honorable manner. It is perhaps one of the most striking exhibits I've ever encountered, for these are a few of the most famous images the world has ever seen. Quite literally took my breath away.

To experience such a rich, contemporary and CURRENT photography exhibit as Testino's is a chance of a lifetime. It was truly an honor listening to him speak a few feet away and then to meet him after? I can't even.....

Thank you to Malcolm Rogers, Karen Frascona, Anne Havinga, Julie Frey and everyone at the MFA Boston who've made this exhibit possible!

"Mario Testino: In Your Face",  Ann and Graham Gund Gallery from October 21, 2012, to February 3, 2013

"Mario Testino: British Royal Portraits", Herb Ritts Gallery from October 21, 2012, to June 16, 2013

Renata taking a photo!

MFA Curator Anne Havinga giving an interview in front of "Karlie Kloss, Bao Bao Wan & Shaolin Monks, Beijing, 2011, American Vogue"

L:  Louise Pederson & Adam Senn, Los Angeles, 2002, Gucci Spring/Summer 03  |   R: Kate Moss, London, 2011, British Vogue

Gemma Ward, Los angeles, 2004, Vogue Paris

Hana Soukupova, Los Angeles, 2003, Gucci Spring/Summer 04 | Carolyn Murphy, Cap d'Antibes, 1999, American Vogue | Brad Pitt, Prague, 2007, V magazine

Madonna, Miami, 1998, Ray of Light Album

Patricia Schmid, London, 2005, British Vogue  |  Lady Gaga, New York, 2009, V magazine

Angelina Jolie, Los Angeles, 2004, Allure |  Lara Stone, Paris, 2007, British Vogue

Diana, Princess of Wales, London, 1997, Vanity Fair

TRH The Duke & Duchess of Cambridge, London, 2010, Engagement Portrait  | TRH The Duke & Duchess of Cambridge, London, 2010, Official Engagement Portrait

HRH The Prince of Wales, HRH Prince William & HRH Prince Harry, London, 2004, Personal Work

HRH Prince William & HRH Prince Harry, London, 2005, 21st Birthday Portrait

Mario Testino during his Q&A segment, my favorite part was when he compared being a photographer to being a cowboy and having to draw the "gun at a speed where you don't die", reminiscing about his time on the bus with his friend growing up, when he (who'd always sit by the window) would see something fly by and nudge his friend, but by the time his friend looked, the moment was gone. 

Mario Testino with Helena (L) and Ben (R)

Mario Testino with Malcolm Rogers, Ann and Graham Gund Director Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Puerto Rico: What to Pack

I was happy to oblige when Jewel from Eat Drink Shop Love asked me if I wanted to guest blog in time for her vacation to Puerto Rico! For what better way to showcase the exotic destination than with a "What to Pack" post?

I've never been to Puerto Rico, so my first thought of it was straw hats and cigars! Browns and creams with bright accessories was the inspiration behind this selection of items.

Also, I think bringing a scented candle along with you is a must on any vacation, it just adds a personal touch to your room.

Vogue did a couple of amazing photo shoot videos from Puerto Rico featuring the beautiful Joan Smalls, (one video also features the talented and cute Bruno Mars!), so take a look and travel away with Jewel to Puerto Rico this week!

What are your must-haves for a beach vacay?

Puerto Rico by hoggerandco featuring t strap sandals

Magazine Covers

From a photographic perspective, magazine covers are one of my favourite things.  So much glamour and style is put into getting that cover page.  Of course, it's amazing how Photoshopped some of them are (and by some, I mean most, if not, all)!  Emma Stone, on the covers of Elle and Vanity Fair, looks vibrant and fun, but of course the Fuggirls always have something to say about covers that look wonky.  Still, Vanity Fair and Vogue (US, India,UK, Italia) usually have the most outstanding covers.

What's your favourite magazine to buy and are you swayed by who's on the cover?

 

 

Love or Hate Valentine's Day?

It's that time of the month again. No, not THAT time of the month.

How do you feel about VDAY?  Whether you love or hate VDay, these will brighten it up:

Send a TWEET greeting card.

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