New York’s Museum of Modern Art.

Helmut Newton: Celebrating 20 Years of Sumo Hardcover

Helmut Newton: Celebrating 20 Years of Sumo is an exhibition and retrospective honoring the 20th anniversary of the release of "Sumo," a groundbreaking photographic book by the renowned photographer Helmut Newton.

About Helmut Newton

Background: Helmut Newton (1920-2004) was a German-Australian photographer, famous for his provocative and erotically charged black-and-white photographs.

Career Highlights: Newton's work appeared in top magazines like Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and Playboy. He was known for his distinctive style, combining glamour, nudity, and a powerful narrative.

Legacy: Newton's influence on fashion and art photography is significant, with a legacy that continues to inspire photographers and artists worldwide.

The "Sumo" Book

Publication: "Sumo" was published in 1999 by Taschen and is one of the largest and most expensive books produced in the 20th century.

Features: The book is a compilation of Newton's work, including over 400 images. It measures 50 x 70 cm and weighs 35 kg (77 lbs).

Edition: The original edition was limited to 10,000 copies, each signed and numbered by Newton. It was accompanied by a custom-built stand designed by Philippe Starck.

Impact: "Sumo" was a monumental publication, both in terms of its physical size and its comprehensive showcase of Newton's oeuvre.

Exhibition Overview

Purpose: The exhibition celebrates the 20th anniversary of "Sumo," reflecting on its impact and Newton's lasting influence in the world of photography.

Content: It features a selection of iconic photographs from the "Sumo" book, as well as additional works that illustrate Newton's diverse range and the evolution of his style.

Curation: The exhibition is curated to highlight the boldness and innovation of Newton's work, emphasizing his unique approach to composition, light, and subject matter.

Key Themes and Highlights

Eroticism and Power: Newton's work often explores themes of power, sexuality, and the human body, challenging societal norms and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

Fashion and Glamour: His collaborations with fashion magazines and designers are showcased, underlining his role in shaping contemporary fashion photography.

Portraits and Nudes: The exhibition includes Newton's renowned portraits and nudes, capturing the elegance and rawness of his subjects.

Cinematic Quality: Newton's photographs are known for their cinematic feel, with carefully staged scenes that tell a story and evoke strong emotional responses.

Exhibition Locations and Dates

Venues: The exhibition is hosted in various prestigious museums and galleries around the world, each offering a unique perspective on Newton's work.

Timeline: The exhibition runs throughout the anniversary year, with specific dates and locations varying depending on the host venue.

Legacy and Influence

Cultural Impact: Newton's work has left a lasting impact on visual culture, influencing generations of photographers and artists.

Critical Acclaim: "Sumo" and Newton's broader body of work have been critically acclaimed for their artistic merit and provocative nature.

Continued Relevance: The themes explored in Newton's photographs remain relevant today, reflecting ongoing conversations about beauty, power, and identity.

The "Helmut Newton: Celebrating 20 Years of Sumo" exhibition not only commemorates a landmark publication but also invites audiences to revisit and appreciate the enduring legacy of one of the most influential photographers of the 20th century.