HERB RITTS
Marking a longstanding relationship with world-renowned American photographer Herb Ritts, Hamiltons’ forthcoming exhibition highlights prints from Herb’s private archive, the much anticipated release of new material from the Ritts Foundation, most of which has never been seen, reproduced or exhibited before. These prints were made by Herb around the time of each shoot; they were images that he particularly liked and set aside for himself.
Having been catalogued and preserved in the Foundation’s climate controlled vault since Ritts’ untimely death in December 2002, these rare and unique works exist in limited numbers and in many instances are the only print available. Original works, measuring 11 x 14 inches, they were printed and approved by Ritts during his lifetime. Each photograph is editioned and marked with the Foundation stamp on the reverse. Examples include Cindy Crawford 1, Bahamas, 1993; Stephanie Seymour 1, Hawaii, 1988; Sting 1, Malibu, 1990 and Naomi Campbell, Versace 1, El Mirage, 1990.
The exhibition will also comprise a selection of Herb’s well-known editioned images, including three monumental, rare oversized works: Fred with Tires, Hollywood, 1984; Stephanie, Cindy, Christie, Tatajana, Naomi, Hollywood, 1989 and Naomi Campbell, Seated, Hollywood, 1991. These each measure 60 x 40 inches.
Ritts began his photographic career in the late seventies. In addition to producing portraits and editorial fashion for Vogue and Vanity Fair he also created successful advertising campaigns for Calvin Klein, Chanel and Gap amongst others. Ritts directed numerous influential and award winning music videos and commercials and his photography has been the subject of exhibitions worldwide, with works residing in many significant public and private collections.