Celebrating the past five years of his work, Tim Walker showcases his photography and ethereal installations at Somerset House exhibition Story Teller.
Walker, one of the most influential and visually stimulating fashion photographers in our time, is renowned for his original and extravagant photographs. Dazzled with color and humor, his work has graced the glossy pages of such prestigious publications as W, Vogue, Vanity Fair, and The New Yorker.
In Story Teller, Walker’s over-the-top props form the centerpiece of every room, including:
- a giant bumblebee playing the cello
- an almost life-size reproduction of a doomed Spitfire fighter plane – a prop from a 2009 British Vogue shoot starring Lily Donaldson
- a 15-feet-tall doll that once chased Lindsey Wixson through the woods for Vogue Italia
“If magic, wild dreams, and the extraordinary are what you crave, a visit to Tim Walker’s exhibition at London’s Somerset House will leave you thoroughly sated,” commented Belinda White of Telegraph.
Everything in Walker’s pictures is well thought-out and specially constructed; his photo shoots resemble that of a film set: There are set designers, model makers, prop suppliers, hair and makeup artists, builders, producers and painters, fashion stylists and costume fitters, and a cast of models playing out roles imagined by the photographer.
Walker’s Favorite Work
In addition to elaborate props, there’s also a collection of editorials, portraits, and personal archives.
When White asked Walker about his favorite work, the photographer gave a surprising answer: “I think I’m happiest with the portraits,” he revealed, referring to the stripped back shots of famous faces, including Alber Elbaz, Vivienne Westwood, and Helena Bonham Carter.
His reason? After you’ve dealt with such substantial props and installations for so long, it’s sobering to see a clean, white background. The photographer explained: “The set up – the table and the white background – has been the same since the birth of photography, but how do we make that interesting? I think that’s where I’ll go next…”
“So, no more props?” White inquired.
“I feel like they’re a twisted toy cupboard that follows me around sometimes – a ball and chain!” replied Walker. “Time for something new. Basta.”
If Walker does go back to the basics, this could be the last chance to catch his surreal and magnificent photography. If you can’t make it, you might want to get a copy of Tim Walker: Story Teller, a publication that features over 175 stunning images, collages, and snapshots by Walker.
Supported by Mulberry, the Tim Walker: Story Teller exhibition runs from Oct. 18, 2012 to Jan. 27, 2013 at Somerset House, London, United Kingdom.
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