Andy Warhols once protege David La Chapelle is celebrating 20 years of notable success in his photography career. Like the rockstar of the photographic world, La Chapelle proves the saying 'you don't have to be controversal - but it helps'. His bold portrait works have often made the headlines, most nobably, his Rolling Stone cover of a teenage Britney Spears outraged critics due to its provocative nature. However, the media frenzy surrounding his work has only succeeded in driving his career further, highlighted by the record breaking attendance at his worldwide exhibitions including Mexico City, Paris and Guadalajara.
As a consequence and due to his idiosyncratic decadence as a photographer, his more recent move from Fashion photographer to fine artist seemed seamless. His first major foray into the field is the policitically inspired exhibition 'The Rape of Africa' currently on show at the R & V Gallery, London. The exhibition progresses easily from his previous work through the use of his highly recognisable style of high gloss appearance and air brushed perfection to portray the effects of Western culture on Africa, all with in the theme of Baroque Painting.
The familiar looking pieces result in yet another surreal but vibrant collection by La Chapelle that is sure to drive him for another 20 years.
