Whether working with a celebrity or doing a fashion shoot, Edward Steichen was a master storyteller. The exhibition Edward Steichen – In High Fashion is a grand collection of stories from the glamorous days of the early 20th century.
Through simple backdrops and a few well-placed props, Steichen created a narrative for every image whether it was a fashion shoot, a portrait of a famous figure or even a pair of shoes.
For the many celebrities and public figures he photographed, he embraced the sitter’s persona in the setting and pose.
For instance, silent film star and “America’s Sweetheart” Mary Pickford leans demurely on a chair looking slightly to an angle. She smiles shyly with a finger gently touching her lips. A bouquet of flowers emphasizes her fresh and youthful image.
Hanging right next to her is “Mexican actress” Lupe Vélez, who appears to be more passionate and fiery. She looks directly into the camera, her exposed arms and legs covered by only her jewelry and the fringe of her dress. Dramatic lighting highlights her skin, creating mysterious shadows and contours.
Setting was so important to Steichen that he designed a piano for use in his studio.
Here, Steichen has posed a model in a black dress next to the piano and a black statue.
The curve of the model is accentuated by the curve of the piano lid which contrasts with the linearity of the podium and statue in the background.
The galleries of In High Fashion are filled with stories. Be sure to come and discover them for yourself.
Images: Edward Steichen (American, b. Luxembourg, 1879-1973). Actress Mary Pickford, 1934. Courtesy Condé Nast Archive, New York. © 1934 Condé Nast Publications.
Actress Lupe Vélez, 1932. Gelatin silver print. Courtesy Condé Nast Archive, New York. © 1932 Condé Nast Publications.
“Black”: Model Margaret Horan in a black dress by Jay-Thorpe, 1935. Gelatin silver print. Courtesy Condé Nast Archive, New York. © 1935 Condé Nast Publications.