OMA to host photographer David LaChapelle, world-debut exhibition

photograph by David LaChapelle

The Orlando Museum of Art (OMA) will host photographer David LaChapelle and the world-debut of his "As the World Turns" exhibition, the largest museum-retrospective of his work in the United States. Organized by OMA Chief Curator Coralie Claeysen-Gleyzon, the collection will feature 100-plus photos from LaChapelle's catalog that spans celebrities, religious figures, fashion-models and more.

"As the World Turns" is slated to debut on Jan. 31.

"This exhibition at OMA is very special to me because I am revealing many new pieces that required me to use all of the experiences from my life to make," LaChapelle said, per an OMA press-release. "I have felt a great freedom in my work through recent years, as I continue to play with themes of popular culture while also returning to the narratives that offer a reflection of the spiritual world and metaphysical ideas.

"In a way, this is like a group-show, because Coralie's curation creates an experiences where all of the different stages and sides of my work can be seen and felt."

LaChapelle's first gallery-exhibition in New York City garnered the attention of Andy Warhol, who hired him at Interview Magazine, in the 1980s. His expansive experience includes photographing Michael Jackson, David Beckham, Hillary Clinton, Kim Kardashian, Tupac Shakur and more. In 1996, he published his first book, "LaChapelle Land," and has since published four others.

"As the World Turns" will be accompanied by a world-premiere from Deodato Arte (Italy). OMA said the piece "channels LaChapelle's fascination with scale, drama and the sublime. ..."

The exhibition will be on display Jan. 31 to May 3.