WHAT? Richard Avedon: Facing West
WHERE? Gagosian, Grosvenor Hill, London W1K 3QD
WHEN? Now until 14th March 2026. Free to view
WHY GO? For turbo-charged imagery. Feel the force of photographs that leave a lasting impression at this intimate exhibition of work by Richard Avedon, known primarily for his fashion imagery but truly majestic when it comes to portraiture with depth. Curated by his granddaughter Caroline Avedon, this exhibition of rare prints from his renowned series In the American West (1979–84) is for true aficionados of portraiture. It’s a personal representation of hard-working Americans and was initially commissioned by the Amon Carter Museum in Texas. Avedon travelled to 21 US states, conducting more than a thousand sittings with 21 curated images now on show that are a total contrast to his glossy superstar image. From miners to ranchers and drifters, he sensitively represents the heart of humanity. Each and every portrait speaks to the viewer, almost creating a narrative. Fans can buy the fortieth-anniversary edition of Avedon’s book In the American West from the Gagosian shop which includes an essay by photographer Laura Wilson who assisted him with his seminal project.
IN THE KNOW Over at Gagosian in Davies Street, a controversial Nan Goldin exhibition is causing quite a stir. Goldin’s erotic photographs, taken directly from real life, focus on relationships and include nudes in bed and skeletons coupling! Just don’t take the kids. Aptly titled, Nan Goldin: The Ballad of Sexual Dependency (1973–86), on until 21st March 2026.