Helmut Newton Retrospective at Ara Pacis Museum in Rome

In Rome, the Ara Pacis Museum is presenting a significant retrospective dedicated to Helmut Newton (originally Helmut Neustädter, 1920–2004), commemorating the 100th anniversary of his birth, which was postponed due to the pandemic. This exhibition showcases over 200 photographs, predominantly in black and white, including numerous works that have never been published before, alongside an extensive array of magazines and documents. It chronicles Newton's journey in fashion photography, starting from his collaborations with Vogue in the 1940s to his later innovative phases. His work often highlights the female form, portrayed with either refined elegance or complete nudity, particularly in the Big Nudes series, evoking a surrealist and expressionist ambiance. The display features renowned portraits of figures like Andy Warhol, Catherine Deneuve, and David Bowie. Newton referred to himself as a "professional voyeur." The exhibition is located beneath the Augustan monument, with a review by Luigi Capano.