David LaChapelle is an American photographer known for flamboyant, elaborate, color-packed images that usually include people, and sometimes the figure. His over-the-top, sometimes garish, photography is influenced, in part, by Cindy Sherman and Helmut Newton.
LaChapelle’s themes often revisit elements of art history or popular culture. His photographs repurpose the symbols and celebrity that are common in the media. This practice if often reflected in the titles as well, such as Jesus is my Homeboy. Celebrated photographer Helmut Newton said of him, “someone who makes me laugh is David LaChapelle.” His composition are indeed humorous, for example he photographed supermodel Naomi Campbell sinking into a pile of sliced fruit.
LaChapelle’s work is in the collections of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, the U.S. National Portrait Gallery, and Musee D’Orsay in Paris. Books featuring his work include Hotel LaChapelle (1999) and LaChapelle Land (1996.)
His works have appeared in Italian and Paris Vogue magazines as well as American Photo magazine. He has worked in New York City and Maui, Hawaii.
David LaChapelle biographical summary
Born: March 11, 1963, Hartford, Connecticut
Education: Highschool diploma