Anna Wintour’s admiration for the iconic ‘The Divers’ photograph is shared by many, solidifying its place as one of the most influential fashion images of the 20th century. The photograph’s striking composition, featuring a couple seemingly perched on a diving board overlooking the French Riviera, is a testament to the artful execution of George Hoyningen-Huene, the mastermind behind this extraordinary creation. What appears to be a tranquil seaside scene was, in reality, a clever fabrication, with stacked boxes on the roof of Vogue’s Paris studio standing in for the diving board, while the building’s rooftop provided the illusion of a serene horizon.
Hoyningen-Huene’s unparalleled talent and vision propelled him to the forefront of fashion photography, leading him to become Chief Photographer at Vogue Paris in 1926. His artistic journey extended beyond still photography, as he ventured into documentary filmmaking and contributed to a remarkable 13 Hollywood films throughout his career.
For the first time in Singapore, over 32 of Hoyningen-Huene’s captivating works are showcased at the ARTitude Galeria on Dempsey Road, offering a rare opportunity to immerse in the master’s iconic black-and-white photographs. The month-long exhibition, titled ‘George Hoyningen-Huene: The Master of Élégance & Allure,’ features portraits of renowned artists, models, high-society figures, and Hollywood legends, all presented in exquisite platinum-palladium archival prints.
Vogue Singapore, committed to fostering cultural dialogue, collaborated with Grupo ARTitude to launch the exhibition with an exclusive vernissage. The opening night featured speeches by Vogue Singapore publisher Bettina von Schlippe and Tommy Rönggren, owner of the George Hoyningen-Heune Estate. Club Vogue members, esteemed partners from renowned institutions, and a vibrant assembly of art enthusiasts gathered to celebrate an evening of art, fashion, and cinema. The exclusive preview provided an intimate encounter with the exhibition, allowing guests to delve into the unique characteristics that elevate Hoyningen-Huene’s work.
Among the notable highlights is a dedicated section showcasing Hoyningen-Huene’s close collaboration with fashion icon Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel, offering a glimpse into their creative partnership. Another section shines a light on his remarkable ability to capture the essence of Parisian fashion houses, featuring stunning photographs of designs by Lanvin, Patou, and Schiaparelli.
In line with its dedication to shaping Singapore’s cultural landscape, Vogue Singapore continues to connect with and support the local art and design community through initiatives such as this exhibition. The year ahead promises an array of exciting events designed to engage and inspire.
Experience the brilliance of George Hoyningen-Huene firsthand by visiting ‘George Hoyningen-Huene: The Master of Élégance & Allure’ at ARTitude Galeria from April 26th to May 24th. Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and artistry of this legendary photographer and discover the enduring legacy of his contribution to the world of fashion and art.
