The art of staging
David LaChapelle’s illustrated book “Lost + Found” is a visual spectacle that blurs the boundaries between photography and art. With his provocative stagings, LaChapelle specifically focuses on the power of symbols that capture both social criticism and pop culture. Celebrities such as Lady Gaga, Rihanna and Sergei Polunin are central figures in his art. This results in works that are both surreal and profound at the same time. The play with colours, backdrops and postures immerses the viewer in a world that is often reminiscent of dreamscapes or modern myths.
Photo: David LaChapelle
The fusion of reality and fantasy
In this book, LaChapelle deliberately breaks with classical modes of representation and creates photographs that are reminiscent of paintings or film sets. Through digital manipulation and manual techniques, he develops an independent visual language. Reality and imagination merge in his works to create a new, often surprising whole. It is not only the opulent compositions that impress, but also the messages that each picture conveys. LaChapelle comments on themes such as decadence, transience and human desires.
David Bowie, 1995“And the stars look very differenttoday.” — David Bowie
Photo: David LaChapelle
Social criticism and contemporary themes
In “Lost + Found”, LaChapelle also takes a critical look at social issues such as environmental destruction, consumer culture and media self-portrayal. Works such as “The Rape of Africa” and “Gas” raise questions about our treatment of resources and nature. At the same time, the artist scrutinises the role of fame and power in modern society. It is often the small details or titles of his works that make the viewer think. Despite the opulent surfaces, there is always a level of reflection and criticism in his photographs. This results in images that are evocative without losing their aesthetic impact.
Photo: David LaChapelle
An atlas of the visual imagination
David LaChapelle’s “Lost + Found” is more than just a photo book – it is a collection of stories told in pictures. LaChapelle uses the power of photography to share his view of the world and to touch the viewer. Between bright colours and subtle nuances, he succeeds in conveying deeper truths about people and society. “Lost + Found” is a book that stimulates the imagination and at the same time opens the eyes to the reality that often lies hidden behind it. It invites you to look at the everyday from a new, surprising perspective.
Data
| Original title | David LaChapelle – Lost + Found |
| Editor | David LaChapelle |
| Publisher | Taschen Verlag |
| Cover | Hardcover |
| Pages | 286, numerous illustrations in colour |
| Language | English |
| Dimensions | 24.6 x 31.4 cm |
| ISBN | 978-3-8365-9964-1 |
| Price | 40 € |
Further information
Further information on the book “David LaChapelle – Lost + Found” (advertising) can be found on the Taschen Verlag website.
Compliance
The book was kindly made available to us by the publisher. The presentation and rating of HYPERMADE remains independent of this and is based solely on the content of the book.