One of the most important American artists of the twentieth century, he had the simplicity of greatness. To me Mr Penn is remarkable; I have been a great fan and always am in awe of his work. His images are phenomenally penetrating and focused; compassionate but not sentimental. His images have appeared in American Vogue magazine in a steady stream since the forties right up to the sliced bananas in August's issue last year. His images also remind us that nothing is safe of lasting, but more importantly to serve as a reminder to celebrate life's wonder.Privately, Mr Penn led a fulfilling life. Like his work, simplistic and full of integrity. The singular most important thing was his relationship with his wife Lisa. She was his soul mate, lover and artistic collaborator for 42 years. She was Swedish born and a great beauty. Mr Penn had the prodigious luck to meet up with his ideal woman, and the prodigious bad luck to outlive her. This makes me ponder on the passages of life. What it means, how we have lived, loved and how we have impacted others around us.
Mr Penn changed the way we saw the world and, in particular, our perception of what is beautiful. What would your legacy be?
Irving Penn
1917 - 2009
(Bobble Jumper & Made Necklace from Whistles, Rings from Marc Jacobs)
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