Press release Mario Testino no limits

13. May - 18. September 2016

Kate Moss, London, , 2008 © Mario Testino press release mario testino 13. may - 18. september 2016

For the first time in Denmark, Kunstforeningen GL STRAND in Copenhagen will present the work of Mario Testino, one of the world’s most influential contemporary photographers, over the summer of 2016. No Limits explores multiple facets in Testino’s practice; it does not seek to compartmentalize his sensibilities, but rather demonstrate the juxtapositions and boundaries he pushes. Three specific themes are presented over the three levels of the museum: fashion photography with iconic portraiture; the nude; and royal portraits alongside high fashion images. Testino’s work has long been recognized for its glamour and beauty, as well as the emotional connection between the photographer and sitter, though he has always explored new ways of expression.

In close relationship, GL STRAND and Mario Testino have developed a unique presentation of works, specially conceived for Copenhagen. In the classic, intimate rooms of GL STRAND, the photographer’s work that exceeds the categories of fashion, formal portraiture and nudes is explored, bringing together iconic images of supermodels, musicians, actors, actresses and royalty, including unseen portraits of Denmark’s Crown Princess and Crown Prince.

Working against prevailing perceptions has been a focal point for Mario Testino since the beginning of his career. The exhibition will bring us close to a body of work that constantly opposes the existing limitations of a particular genre and its fixed conventions. Fashion photography slides into the portrait’s characteristics and onwards the nude pictures and vice versa. Thus, the juxtapositions of genres and contexts both perform and display Testino’s composite work characterized by multiple inspirations. Respectful of the context set for the particular assignment, Testino brings forward a special notion of ease and beauty transcending all of his images.

The title No Limits also touches upon Testino’s personal experience of Copenhagen as a city that embodies openness and a positive attitude towards life, that very much falls in line with his own outlook. “When in Copenhagen I feel a sense of freedom to be and do as you want”, says Testino. “I have been attracted to it since the beginning … I did one of my favourite series for V Magazine there on a very hot summer day and I was so inspired by the freedom of the people.”

Curated with the architecture of GL STRAND as a leading thread – each exhibition floor investigates different concepts of scenography and how the photographs can be set in a dialogue with the interior of the institution. This is an interest that is closely linked to the relationship between high fashion and interiors, which marks a concern key to Testino’s work as a photographer. The visitor is first met by the fashion images that demonstrate Testino’s irreverence and provocation. Formal portraits of European royalty, including Denmark’s Crown Princess and Crown Prince, presented in conjunction with images of high fashion all constitute the hanging on the 2nd floor. The exhibition concludes with a selection of Testino’s legendary nudes. In this way the audience is allowed to dwell, looking at Testino’s work with each image type in mind and how the body of work constantly resists being unequivocal. press release mario testino 13. may - 18. september 2016

Finally, visitors are invited into the Art Cinema room on the 3rd floor to screen the short documentary film, T E S T I N O, produced by Harbers Studios in association with Wondros. In an intimate conversation with film- maker Jesse Dylan, Mario Testino opens up about his art, his life and his illustrious subjects. Originally produced to honor Testino at the 2015 International Center of Photography Infinity Awards in New York City, this version of the film was made especially for the exhibition in GL STRAND.

Always bringing forth beauty and sensuousness his work is in highest demand globally. Famous for working towards that special moment that transcends the person portrayed, his portraits prevail a certain ease and comfort that is visible for everybody. And the result is an image that is seductive, welcoming, and sensual at the same time, though not afraid to suggest a more provocative and confrontational look at other times. Each context has its own possibilities, and Mario Testino is known for pushing the limits bringing forth energy, sex and optimism.

The exhibition has been made possible thanks to ege. Mario Testino with his team MARIOTESTINO+ have col- laborated with ege to realize a bespoke installation in the historic stairway of GL STRAND. The textile installation transforms the space connecting the three floors of the exhibition.

In addition to ege we would like to thank Crown Prince Frederik’s and Crown Princess Mary’s Fund, Danish Fashion Institute, CIFF – Copenhagen International Fashion Fair, Harpers Studio and Maersk Line.

Biography: Mario Testino (b. 1954, , ). After university studies in economics and law in Lima and San Diego, Testino moved to London, where he started his career in fashion and portrait photography. Over the years Testino has had a continuous collaboration with Vogue, Vanity Fair and other magazines in the Conde Nast group, as well as leading fashion houses such as Burberry, Gucci, and . He is considered one of the most influential photographers in his field today and has had several solo exhibitions worldwide, including the National Portrait Gallery in London (2002), Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography (2004), NRW Forum in Düsseldorf (2007), Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid (2010), Shanghai Art Museum (2012), Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (2012), Dallas Contemporary (2012), MALBA, Buenos Aires (2014) and Kunstbibliothek – Staatliche Museen zu Berlin (2015). press release mario testino 13. may - 18. september 2016

For INFORMATION, IMAGES and arrangements regarding INTERVIEWS, please contact Head of Communication Pernille Wahlgren: + 45 33 36 02 61 / [email protected]

Inquiries from the fashion press, please contact Head of Communication, Danish Fashion Institute, Cecilie Thorsmark: + 45 26 25 20 01 / [email protected]

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You are invited to the PRESS CONFERENCE on Wednesday May 11th 2016 from 10.30 am

10.30 – 11.00 The exhibition will be open to a preview before the press conference. 11.10 The press conference starts with introduction by Director of GL STRAND Helle Behrndt followed by an interview and talk between Mario Testino and journalist and TV presenter Chris Pedersen.

To attend the press conference, please register by mail to [email protected] before May 6th.