Between 1985 and 1995 Helmut Newton published his most powerful pictures in his own magazine, Helmut Newton's Illustrated. Only four issues were ever published, and these rare collector's editions have now been combined in one volume. In its mix of erotic nudes and provocative journalistic photography, Helmut Newton's Illustrated documents some of the strongest visual images of the past two decades. Salon reports that the photographer who gained worldwide notoriety for his stylish portraits of naked women says he will never shoot nudes again; Helmut Newton's Illustrated showcases much of the last work in his signature genre.
Helmut Newton (1920-2004) was one of the most influential fashion photographers of all time. Born in Berlin, he arrived in Australia in 1940 and married June Brunell (a.k.a. Alice Springs) eight years later. He first achieved international fame in the 1970's while working principally for French Vogue, and his celebrity and influence grew over the decades. Newton preferred to shoot in streets or interiors, rather than studios. Controversial scenarios, bold lighting, and striking compositions came to form his signature look. In 1990 he was awarded the Grand Prix National for photography; in 1992 the German government awarded him Das Grosse Verdienstkreuz for services to German culture, and he was appointed Officer des Arts, Lettres et Sciences by S.A.S. Princess Caroline of Monaco. In 1996, he was appointed Commandeur de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by Philippe Douste-Blazy, the French Minister of Culture.
Working and living in close companionship with his wife until his death at 83, his images remain as distinctive, seductive and original as ever.
