F.C. Gundlach. Photo: PAP/Jacek Bednarczyk
“Vanity”, which is being hosted at the National Museum, reveals highlights from the 87-year-old master's collection of some 17,000 photographs, taking in images by such legends as Cecil Beaton, Helmut Newton, Melvin Sokolsky, and a clutch by Gundlach himself.
F.C. Gundlach. Photo: PAP/Jacek Bednarczyk
“For a long time, photography – mainly fashion photography – was considered to be a sort of secondary art,” Gundlach told Nick Hodge from Polish Radio's English Section.
“But now, those times have completely gone of course,” he added.
“Fashion photography is part of the art world - there's a lot of influence from one side to the other.
“I think fashion photography is very important, because it reflects every decade of every century,” he reflected.
“And nowadays it changes maybe every month, it's faster and faster.”
“And everyone can take part in it,” he added.
Asked which period of his career he found the most rewarding, Gundlach was unequivocal.
“For me it was the sixties of course. Because it was the biggest change in society as well.
“Until the end of the fifties, you couldn't show a knee,” he stressed.
“If we change our habits, fashion has to change, and photography as well.”
The 11th Photomonth runs from 16 May to 16 June, and this year's edition explores a plethora of questions relating to fashion. Dozens of exhibitions, lectures and workshops are taking place across the city.
“Vanity” will have an extended showing at the National Museum until 1 September. (nh)
Photo: PAP/Jacek Bednarczyk