With her new memoir, Isabelle Chaput introduces readers to a new character from her vast body of work, the National Post Genderift and Age change, in which she celebrates life. The protagonist is a Frenchwoman, who at one point in her life dresses in clothes that are no longer fashionable for her. Instead of settling into a dull career as a teacher’s assistant, she decides to pursue her passion and enter the world of fashion photography. The resulting memoir, Age, is a visually stunning collection of scenes from her day to day life as a professional in the fashion industry.
Like many other former post-wall New York artists, Isabelle began her career working with renowned designer Nelson Tiberghien, who is well known for his contemporary art pieces. In this memoir, Tiberghien is described as a mentor and creative partner, giving Chaput a chance to hone her skills under his influence. The memoir showcases the visual artistry that Chaput has been able to create while working with Tiberghien, and it offers an insider’s look into the world of the major designer. Along with fellow French designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Virginie De La Grange and Pierre Cardin, he has become one of the most respected and sought after stylists in the world.
In Age, Isabelle Chaput offers up a unique window into the world of fashion photography. Tiberghien provides a unique opportunity for a young female artist to confront her own identity issues, while at the same time creating work that many other artists are unable to achieve. The photographs in Age are beautiful and depict a world that few women ever see. The book is a must-read for those interested in modern art and New York City as a studio culture.