Mario Sorrenti

In 1991, Mario Sorrenti started gaining attention from major fashion magazines due to his distinct photographic style. He was commissioned by Harper's Bazaar to shoot a series of editorials, which showcased his ability to evoke mood and emotion through stark yet intimate imagery. These early works at Harper's Bazaar were pivotal in shaping Sorrenti's career, helping to establish his reputation in the highly competitive world of fashion photography. His innovative use of black-and-white photography and playful yet intense compositions set the tone for his future projects.

Mario Sorrenti's career took a significant leap in 1993 when he shot the iconic Calvin Klein Obsession campaign, featuring model Kate Moss. This campaign was revolutionary for its raw, black-and-white photography and minimalist aesthetic, diverging from the glossy and colorful fashion ads prevalent at the time. The campaign not only elevated Sorrenti's status as a leading fashion photographer but also positioned Kate Moss as a major figure in the modeling world. It marked a pivotal moment in fashion advertising, emphasizing emotion and intimacy over opulence and colors.

In 1996, Mario Sorrenti's work was featured in Vogue Italia, marking an important moment in his career. The photographs showcased his evolving style characterized by a raw and emotional approach to fashion photography. His contribution to Vogue Italia allowed him to reach a broader audience in Europe and solidified his relationship with Conde Nast publications. Sorrenti's Vogue Italia editorials are often cited for their visual sophistication and emotional depth, encapsulating the spirit of the time while maintaining a timeless quality.

In 2000, Mario Sorrenti directed the visually striking campaign for Gucci Envy, a fragrance that sought to capture bold sensuality and allure. The campaign was noted for its cinematic quality and its ability to convey intense emotional and physical connections, with a style that was both raw and sophisticated. Sorrenti's work on this campaign underscored his unique ability to blend fashion imagery with storytelling, making an impact on how fragrance advertising was approached at the time, and highlighting his versatility as both a photographer and a director.

In 2002, Mario Sorrenti lent his creative vision to the Pirelli Calendar, known for its high-profile photographers and artistic approach. Sorrenti's contribution featured a departure from the typical glamorous and professionally lit images, instead opting for more natural and personal portrayals of the models. His work on the calendar emphasized simplicity, natural beauty, and an unguarded look at femininity, aligning with his signature style. The calendar's release was met with acclaim in the fashion world, reinforcing Sorrenti's reputation as an artist who challenges conventions.

In 2007, Mario Sorrenti's first major solo exhibition, 'The Machine', opened in New York. This exhibition marked an important milestone in Sorrenti's career, showcasing a wide array of his photographic works and providing insight into his creative process. 'The Machine' served to highlight his versatility and thematic interests across different subjects and settings. The exhibition was well-received, offering viewers an intimate look at Sorrenti's artistic evolution and affirming his status as a formidable talent in contemporary photography.

In 2011, renowned photographer Mario Sorrenti was appointed as the Creative Director of W Magazine, a prestigious position that allowed him to shape the visual identity and editorial content of the magazine. His influence brought a distinct blend of avant-garde creativity and refined elegance to W Magazine’s pages, showcasing high fashion with an artful, narrative-driven approach. Sorrenti's tenure involved collaborating with top designers, models, and stylists, further cementing his status as a pivotal figure in the fashion and editorial photography landscape.

The exhibition 'Draw Blood for Proof', which opened in 2014, showcased a comprehensive selection of Mario Sorrenti's photographic works, spanning his career from the 1990s to the 2010s. The exhibition highlighted his bold aesthetic and his pioneering approach to fashion and fine art photography. By displaying both iconic images and lesser-known works, the exhibition offered a deep dive into the evolution of Sorrenti's style, as well as his influence on visual culture. Critics praised the exhibition for its depth and for demonstrating Sorrenti's enduring impact on the medium.

In 2017, Mario Sorrenti was honored with the prestigious Infinity Award for Art from the International Center of Photography (ICP). This award recognized Sorrenti's outstanding contributions to the field of photography, particularly highlighting his innovative work in both fashion and fine art. Achieving this accolade underscored his influence and underscored how his career has pushed the boundaries of photographic art. The Infinity Awards are among the highest accolades in photography, celebrating significant contributions to the medium and impact on visual arts.

Mario Sorrenti released his photography book 'Kate' in 2018, capturing intimate portraits of supermodel Kate Moss during the early 1990s. The book features previously unseen images from the period when Sorrenti and Moss were both emerging professionals and romantically involved. These photos offer a unique glimpse into the personal and artistic dynamic between Sorrenti and Moss, providing insights into the era's cultural and fashion vibes. The book emphasizes Sorrenti's signature style, underscoring his influence and the nostalgic appeal of the 90s fashion scene.