Stephanie Pfriender Stylander: Unseen/Seen - A Journey Through Hidden Gems and Celebrated Highlights
Stephanie Pfriender Stylander, a renowned fashion and portrait photographer, has been showcasing her work in various publications and exhibitions since the early 1990s. In recent years, she has delved into the hidden aspects of her photography, uncovering forgotten negatives, contact sheets, and slides that had been tucked away for years. Partnering with the Staley-Wise Gallery in New York City, Stylander embarked on a journey to reveal a part of her extensive archive, dividing it into two distinct categories: the "Unseen" and the "Seen."
The "Unseen" portion of Stylander's collection reflects personal growth and change, while the "Seen" images were often created for clients, incorporating different creative decisions. One notable shoot from the collection features a young Kate Moss, captured by Stylander in 1992. The images showcase Moss in a candid and expressive light, hinting at the star quality that would later define her career.
Throughout her career, Stylander has photographed a diverse range of celebrities, including Nicole Kidman, Antonio Banderas, Aretha Franklin, Taylor Swift, Björk, Jennifer Lopez, and Keith Richards. Each shoot presents a unique opportunity for Stylander to blend her artistic vision with the personality and essence of the subject, creating intimate and captivating portraits.
Drawing inspiration from French New Wave cinema, Stylander's work combines sensuality and rawness, often incorporating composites and layouts to enhance the visual storytelling. Her creative process involves layering images on canvas using phototransfer and mixed media techniques, resulting in a deliberate and textured aesthetic that embraces imperfections as part of the artistic journey.
Stylander's "Unseen/Seen" collection is now available for purchase at the Staley-Wise Gallery and showcased on her website, inviting viewers to explore the hidden gems and celebrated highlights of her illustrious career. Through her dedication to capturing the essence of her subjects and pushing the boundaries of traditional photography, Stylander continues to leave a lasting impact on the world of fine art photography.