Another new, exciting photography show in Paris at
musee Luxembourg. Man Ray, (an American artist moved to Paris in 1921). His photographic work is seen from a fashion perspective rather than as a Surrealist or Dadaist.The museum proposes Ray fell into fashion photography by taking society portraits, placing them in Harper’s Bazaar and Vogue, whose editors noticed of his unusual techniques and hired him. But a little research tells another story. The stunning, young American Vogue model, Lee Miller showed up on his doorstep uninvited and announced she wanted to be his assistent. Ray said he didn't use assistants and anyway he was leaving immediately for Biarritz on holiday . Lee Miller said she’d accompany him! They worked together for 3 years. Ray remained obsessed with her, even though Miller got fed up and moved out, they remained friends the rest of their lives. By accident in the dark room, they discovered the technique of ‘Solarization’. It was Miller who introduced him into fashion photography if you believe the many riveting videos on her life. Paris designers like Jeanne Lanvin, Vionnet,Chanel, Paul Poiret, Schiaparelli adored working with Ray and his unique photographic techniques.
The designer’s garments are interspersed through out the exhibit.
Plus short fashion films made by Ray, with accompanying 20’s music to get you in the mood.
This surreal photo was an ad for mascara! The museum’s gift shop offers mascara, lipsticks, nail polish along with Man Ray catalogs. These women are so elegant. Its hard not to compare their stylish manner with women today. But then women today are no longer confined to being simply objects of beauty. Today’s women have many more options with great thanks to Ruth Bader Ginsburg, quite a stylish woman herself. (Start watching at 11:00 minutes). This week has been an immersion in RBG tributes. You too? The new September Paris letter💌 is in the post📮🤸🏾♀️Stay well and safe dear PBers❤️🐻💋