Tony Kelly, Diretto Per Roma 2020
To a Summer past
Summer is coming to an end and so is our summer exhibition. So we want to look back on hot summer days one last time, before we turn our focus towards the cooler timer of year. With the ‘Sun-Kissed’ Exhibition, our gallery was bathed in the warmth and allure of the season—a vibrant celebration of fine art photography that captured the essence of summer’s golden Moments.
Featuring works by renowned photographers such as Ellen von Unwerth, Antoine Verglas, Albert Watson, David Drebin, Gérard Uféras, Arthur Elgort, Bruno Bisang, Roxanne Lowit, Sante D’Orazio, and Tony Kelly, the collection brought to life the seductive interplay of sunlight, glamour, and the iconic world of fashion. Each photograph in the exhibition radiated with the opulence of summer, showcasing the effortless elegance of famous models and the lavish lifestyles of the beautiful and rich.
The “Sun-Kissed” exhibition was not just a visual journey through sun-drenched landscapes and luxury, but also a celebration of the timeless allure that these photographers have captured throughout their careers. From the playful, flirtatious energy of Ellen von Unwerth’s work to the sophisticated, cinematic feel of Arthur Elgort’s and David Drebin’s images, the exhibition offered a diverse narrative of summer’s beauty and the glamorous life under the sun.
Ellen von Unwerth, Parasol 1990
Celebrating Michel Comte: 70 Years of Masterful Vision and Unparalleled Creativity
As part of our summer exhibition we put a spotlight on the works of Michel Comte, to celebrate the photographers 70th birthday. Michel Comte, a legendary figure in the world of photography whose work has left an indelible mark on the art and fashion industries. Over the decades, he has crafted a remarkable career, capturing iconic images that have defined eras, shaped perceptions, and inspired countless photographers and artists.
Born on September 19, 1954, in Zurich, Switzerland, Michel Comte initially trained as an art restorer. His break as a photographer came in the late 1970s when he began working with Karl Lagerfeld for Chloé, a collaboration that opened doors to the fashion world. His early work with prominent fashion houses like Chloé, Yves Saint Laurent, and Ungaro, combined with his striking editorial spreads for Vogue, Vanity Fair, and Harper’s Bazaar, established him as a go-to photographer for the elite of fashion and entertainment.
Michel Comte, Jaime with Monkey – Beauty and Beast 1996
A Distinctive Photography Style
Michel Comte is renowned for his ability to merge classical beauty with contemporary sensibilities. His photography style is characterized by a dynamic blend of elegance, spontaneity, and emotional depth. Comte’s portraits are often celebrated for their raw honesty—he has an uncanny ability to capture the essence of his subjects, whether they are celebrities, models, or ordinary people.
One of the hallmarks of Comte’s style is his use of light and shadow, creating a mood that ranges from the ethereal to the dramatic. This mastery of lighting, combined with his intuitive understanding of composition, allows him to create images that are both timeless and modern.
Michel Comte, Gisele Bündchen for Vogue 1999
Iconic Subjects, Iconic Images
As Michel Comte celebrates his 70th birthday, it’s clear that his influence on the world of photography is profound and enduring. He has not only captured the faces and fashions of several generations but also pushed the boundaries of what photography can achieve. His ability to navigate between the worlds of high fashion, celebrity, and humanitarian work with equal skill and passion has made him a true icon in the field.
Today, we honor Michel Comte’s remarkable career and his contributions to the visual arts. As he continues to inspire and innovate, we look forward to seeing what the future holds for this extraordinary artist.
Happy 70th Birthday, Michel Comte! We are proud to be able to present you incredible Images at PREISS FINE ARTS. Your work has truly shaped the way we see the world, and for that, we are deeply grateful.
Michel Comte, Eva Herzigova for Givenchy 1997
We at Preiss Fine Arts are incredibly proud to work with renowned photographer Michel Comte, whose work masterfully blends art, fashion, and photojournalism. Comte’s ability to capture the essence of his subjects, from iconic celebrities to fragile landscapes, demonstrates his unique vision and creative depth. His fearless exploration of light and form has earned him a place among the greats of contemporary photography.
Owning a piece by Michel Comte is not only an investment in fine art but also in a legacy. His works evoke emotion, provoke thought, and will continue to inspire for generations. Each piece embodies his passion, making it a timeless addition to any collection.