Capturing a golden era of the international jet-set, American photographer Slim Aarons is remembered for his poppy, vibrant images that embody the beauty of affluence – both in who he photographed and where he photographed them. Projecting this idea of an ‘undercover outsider’ within the elite, Aarons’ images document the day-to-day occupations of the upper echelons of society. From lounging by the pool to games of backgammon – leisure, holidays and relaxation are at the essence of his photography, often contrasting with the turbulent political backdrop of the era.
Following his own experience of the Second World War, Slim Aarons dedicated himself to portraying the uniquely expensive brand of tranquillity and bliss that was beyond the reach of the average American. From Princess Grace of Monaco in Austria to Hollywood greats Clark Gable, Van Heflin, Gary Cooper and James Stewart in Beverly Hills, Slim Aarons turned his lens to the most glamorous of the glitterati. Here, as a new exhibition opens at Brighton’s Enter Gallery, revisits some of Aarons’ most memorable photographs.
Noble Donna Polissena Brandolini d’Adda in Tuscany, 1991 Princess Grace of Monaco in Salzburg, Austria, 1981 Winemaker Daniel Gainey and his wife out riding at their ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona, January 1973 Helen Dzo Dzo Kaptur and Nelda Linsk, wife of art dealer Joseph Linsk, at the Kaufmann Desert House in Palm Springs, California, 1970 The fire service in Lyford Cay, on New Providenc.