For ten years – from 1984 until 1995 – Newton published his best photographs in his own magazine, Helmut Newton’s Illustrated. During this period, four editions appeared: No. 1, "Sex and Power," No. 2, "Pictured from an Exhibition," No. 3, "I was there" and No. 4, "Dr. Phantasme." Their titles were as suggestive as they were thematic and all issues quickly became sought-after collector’s items. With their provocative mixture of nudes, journalistic pictures and sensationalist portraits, these four editions of Helmut Newton’s Illustrated are considered to be among the most powerful visual documents of the 80’s and 90’s. Our complete edition brings all four together in one volume and was published in spring, 2000. It is a real power pack – 134 Newton photographs in rich duotone and color – charged with sex, power and beauty.
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.
