Starting October 27th, a new exclusive public exhibition opens at the Deodato Arte Gallery on Via Giulia 122 in Rome, Italy: the new exhibition of David LaChapelle‘s latest series “Stations of the Cross,” which will be presented during the Biennale in Florence on the occasion of the Lifetime Achievement Award given to the American photographer.
Deodato Arte and David LaChapelle’s exhibition in Rome
The exhibition, which will be opened by LaChapelle himself on October 27, features striking new works, fifteen scenes of the Stations of the Cross arranged along a path that symbolizes Christ’s journey to the Crucifixion which the artist has interpreted by drawing inspiration from various examples, from medieval to postmodern times, imagining the traditional religious narrative in a new, colorful, and poetic way. With his unique style and composition, LaChapelle presents in the guise of Christ the Italian artist and actor Tedua, for whom the photographer signed the album covers “Purgatorio” and “Inferno”; theatrical elements along with symbolic figures transport the devotional practice, in which the viewer visits each station praying, into the present time.
On display and in conversation with Stations of the Cross, as well as several works from several well-known series in his portfolio, LaChapelle is exhibiting Earth Laughs in Flowers, the series made between 2008 and 2011 and inspired by traditional Dutch vanitas, depictions of symbolic objects that make one reflect on the vanity of achievements and earthly pleasures; as always, in his ten vanitas LaChapelle mixes humor and drama together with everyday objects to remind the viewer of our mortality.
“It is a great responsibility to welcome David LaChapelle for this occasion,” explains Deodato Salafia, “it is this is his first exhibition at our Rome headquarters, following the review of iconic works at Deodato Milano last fall. Anew LaChapelle, who has already treated subjects related to Christianity, such as the Annunciation, offers us with incredible surprise a survey of one of the most traditional pillars of the Roman Catholic Church. A work of 15 sets creates a collection destined to remain in art history.“
David Lachapelle and the award at the Florence Biennale
Officially recognized as an undisputed pop culture icon, David LaChapelle will receive a lifetime achievement award during the 14th Florence Biennale. A prestigious and symbolic award to world-renowned photographer David LaChapelle who can transform stars into works of art.
“A tribute to one of the most talented and influential photographers of our time, and in recognition of his unique style and exceptional artistic output, based on imagination, experimentation and creativity, conveying profound social messages. Through his visionary, original and courageous perspective, he has inspired many other artists and audiences worldwide.”
