No Limits
For the first time in Denmark, Kunstforeningen GL STRAND in Copenhagen presents the work of Mario Testino.
In close relationship, GL STRAND and Mario Testino have developed a unique presentation of works, specially conceived for Copenhagen. In the classic, intimate rooms of GL STRAND, the photographer’s work that exceeds the categories of fashion, formal portraiture and nudes is explored, bringing together iconic images of supermodels, musicians, actors, actresses and royalty, including unseen portraits of Denmark’s Crown Princess and Crown Prince.
Working against prevailing perceptions has been a focal point for Mario Testino since the beginning of his career. The exhibition will bring us close to a body of work that constantly opposes the existing limitations of a particular genre and its fixed conventions. Fashion photography slides into the portrait’s characteristics and onwards the nude pictures and vice versa. Thus, the juxtapositions of genres and contexts both perform and display Testino’s composite work characterized by multiple inspirations. Respectful of the context set for the particular assignment, Testino brings forward a special notion of ease and beauty transcending all of his images.
The Exhibition
Kunstforeningen GL STRAND, Copenhagen, 2016
Kunstforeningen GL STRAND, Copenhagen, 2016
Kunstforeningen GL STRAND, Copenhagen, 2016
Kunstforeningen GL STRAND, Copenhagen, 2016
Kunstforeningen GL STRAND, Copenhagen, 2016
Kunstforeningen GL STRAND, Copenhagen, 2016
Kunstforeningen GL STRAND, Copenhagen, 2016
Kunstforeningen GL STRAND, Copenhagen, 2016
Kunstforeningen GL STRAND, Copenhagen, 2016
Kunstforeningen GL STRAND, Copenhagen, 2016
Kunstforeningen GL STRAND, Copenhagen, 2016
Kunstforeningen GL STRAND, Copenhagen, 2016
Curated with the architecture of Kunstforeningen GL STRAND as a leading thread – each exhibition floor investigates different concepts of scenography and how the photographs can be set in a dialogue with the interior of the institution. This is an interest that is closely linked to the relationship between high fashion and interiors, which marks a concern key to Testino’s work as a photographer. The visitor is first met by the fashion images that demonstrate Testino’s irreverence and provocation. Formal portraits of European royalty, including Denmark’s Crown Princess and Crown Prince, presented in conjunction with images of high fashion all constitute the hanging on the 2nd floor. The exhibition concludes on the 3rd floor with a selection of Testino’s legendary nudes. In this way the audience is allowed to dwell, looking at Testino’s work with each image type in mind and how the body of work constantly resists being unequivocal.
Finally, visitors are invited into the Art Cinema room on the 3rd floor to screen the short film, T E S T I N O, produced by Harbers Studios in association with Wondros. In an intimate conversation with filmmaker Jesse Dylan, Mario Testino opens up about his art, his life and his illustrious subjects. Originally produced to honour Testino at the 2015 International Center of Photography Infinity Awards in New York City, this version of the film was made especially for the exhibition in GL STRAND.
Always bringing forth beauty and sensuousness, Testino’s work is in highest demand globally. Famous for working towards that special moment that transcends the person portrayed, his portraits prevail a certain ease and comfort that is visible for everybody. And the result is an image that is seductive, welcoming, and sensual at the same time, though not afraid to suggest a more provocative and confrontational look at other times. Each context has its own possibilities, and Mario Testino is known for pushing the limits bringing forth energy, sex and optimism.
Mario Testino, "No Limits", Kunstforeningen GL Strand, Copenhagen 2016.
Selected Works
Stella Tennant, New York, American Vogue, 2006
Sienna Miller, Rome, American Vogue, 2007
Kate Moss, London, National Portrait Gallery, 2002
Kate Moss, London, British Vogue, 2008
Josh Hartnett, New York, V Man, 2005
Lara Stone, London, British GQ, 2011
Tasha Tilberg, Paris, Dutch Magazine, 1997
Gisele Bündchen, New York, Vanity Fair, 2009
RELATED CONTENT
