The David LaChapelle exhibition in Rome

Kitsch. Cynical. Surreal. Post-pop. David LaChapelle's aesthetic is populated by unpredictable landscapes, mythological figures, dreamlike suggestions, symbolism, Hollywood stars and vibrant colors. This unique and controversial mix is the protagonist of a to a new exhibition dedicated to the American photographer hosted in Rome at the Galleria Mucciaccia until June 18. 34 artworks will show the artistic evolution of LaChapelle in a backward journey: from the latest projects, New World, Lost and Found and Behold, with the evocative photos full of mysticism and spirituality took in 2017 in the rainforest of Hawaii, to the series of photographs taken between 1984 and 2009 dedicated to the world of entertainment and Hollywood stars, including the famous three portraits of Michael Jackson that celebrate his beatification by the media.

In between, there are equally evocative and provocative shots such as Rape of Africa against the violence suffered by the African continent, or Showtime at the Apocalypse, the famous Christmas portrait of the Kardashian family. 

The turning point in LaChapelle's career was the After the Deluge series released in 2006 in which the artist, inspired by the Sistine Chapel, began to mix references to Michelangelo with thoughts on consumer society. The result consists of apocalyptic shots with statues and people under water. All the works part of the Roman exhibition will be included in a book published by Carlo Cambi Editore.

Fun fact: the exhibition also includes Good News for Modern Man (1984), the only black and white photograph ever shot by David LaChapelle.

Exhibition: David Lachapelle

Where: Mucciaccia Gallery, Largo della Fontanella Borghese 89, Rome

Ticket: free entrance

Info: www.galleriamucciaccia.com