Mario Testino

In 1997, Mario Testino's work was prominently featured in a retrospective exhibition of Gianni Versace's fashion at the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Testino had worked closely with Versace on many successful advertising campaigns that captured the exuberance and glamour of Versace's designs. This exhibition paid homage to the creativity and innovation of Versace, with Testino's photographs serving as a key component by vividly showcasing the bold and colorful aesthetic that defined Versace's fashion house. This event helped solidify Testino's role as a leading fashion photographer of the era.

In 2002, Mario Testino was selected to photograph the late Princess Diana for her iconic cover story in Vanity Fair magazine. This photoshoot became one of the most famous of Diana and showcased Testino's ability to capture the essence of his subjects. The images were intimate and showed a relaxed side of the princess that was rarely seen by the public. This work significantly raised Testino's profile in the fashion and photography worlds, cementing his status as a world-class photographer with a unique style.

On November 19, 2008, Mario Testino was honored with the Moët & Chandon Fashion Tribute Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to fashion photography. The award celebrated Testino's distinguished career and his ability to capture stunning and memorable images of some of the world's most famous models and celebrities. The award ceremony highlighted Testino's influence across the fashion industry and acknowledged his unique talents and contributions to photographic art.

In September 2010, Mario Testino served as the guest editor for a special edition of British Vogue. This special issue was a significant event as it featured Testino's photography and his personal vision for the magazine, bridging the gap between fashion and high art. It showcased his work with an array of different models and celebrities, providing readers with insights into the creative process behind some of the most iconic fashion imagery. This issue was lauded for its creativity and artistic direction, solidifying Testino's status not only as a photographer but also as an influencer in the fashion publishing world.

On November 7, 2011, Mario Testino's photographs were featured in an exhibition titled 'Portraits' at the National Portrait Gallery in London. This exhibition included Testino's famous portraits of members of various royal families, capturing both their formal and personal sides. The collection was well-received and praised for its elegance and artistry, providing audiences with a unique glimpse into the lives of royalty. Testino's ability to bring out warmth and character in formal portraits was highlighted as a testament to his exceptional skill as a photographer.

On March 15, 2013, the exhibition 'In Your Face' by Mario Testino opened at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. This exhibition showcased the provocative and glamorous side of Testino's work, featuring images that combined fashion, nudity, and celebrity in bold and unexpected ways. The exhibition was designed to challenge visitors' perceptions of fashion photography and highlighted Testino's capacity for reinvention and adaptability in an ever-evolving industry. It was praised for its daring and thought-provoking presentation, reaffirming Testino's status as a visionary in his field.

In April 2014, Mario Testino launched the 'Alta Moda' exhibition at his cultural foundation MATE in Lima, Peru. This exhibition focused on traditional Peruvian costumes and highlighted the rich heritage and cultural diversity of the Andes region. Testino's work in this exhibition captured the vibrant colors, intricate designs, and unique fashion of the traditional attire, thus promoting Peruvian culture through a modern lens. The exhibition was widely acclaimed for its celebration of cultural identity and Testino's dedication to exploring and honoring his roots.

In June 2015, Mario Testino established the MATE - Museo Mario Testino, a non-profit organization in his hometown of Lima, Peru. The foundation aims to promote culture and provide a platform for other Peruvian artists. The museum houses a permanent collection of Testino's work and serves as a cultural hub, exhibiting both Peruvian and international artists. The opening was attended by celebrities and marked a significant contribution to the cultural landscape of Peru, showcasing Testino's deep commitment to his Peruvian heritage.

On December 16, 2016, Mario Testino was honored at the British Fashion Awards with a special recognition for his outstanding contribution to the fashion industry. This prestigious accolade celebrated Testino's iconic photography which has been featured in countless fashion magazines and campaigns over the years. His work was praised for its impact on global fashion culture, as well as his ability to consistently produce innovative and captivating images. This award was indicative of his lasting influence and reputation in the world of fashion photography.

On January 13, 2017, allegations of sexual misconduct against Mario Testino were published by the New York Times. The article included accounts from over a dozen male models and former assistants, accusing Testino of unwanted sexual advances during photoshoots. The accusations led to several prominent fashion brands severing ties with Testino and a broader discussion on ethics within the fashion industry. Testino denied the allegations, but the controversy significantly impacted his career and led to him stepping back from professional engagements.