Kobe Fashion Museum

Kobe, Japan 2012

Curator: Tohru Momo

Guest Curator: Jacqueline Okuma

Kevin Westenberg is a highly gifted photographer and a perceptive observer of the human face. Born with unique  talents, Kevin exploits special lighting techniques to produce photographic masterpieces for the sleeves for musical albums. Though many of his photographs are transformed by special lighting - especially on album covers - they now define a generation celebrity images. These artists have willingly accepted the inventive self-images that Kevin  conceives for them, because each picture taken transmits and strengthens their role in the artistic world. Celebrities in the modern, individualistic age are on an indispensable human and social quest for uniqueness. Kevin’s way of capturing his subjects brings to life their pursuit of fame, recognition and status.

Throughout his 25 years as one of the most famous photographers for musicians and movie stars, Westenberg has produced volumes of photographs, none of which leaves us indifferent. Each picture is a piece of art. Relying on a basic architectural training, Kevin demonstrates his understanding of space, light and shadow. Therefore, each picture becomes an expression of just one unique moment. Every camera snap reveals another aspect, and a series of photos can penetrate multiple dimensions of an artist's personality.

Each picture is a stolen moment through the lens of the photographer. With each "click," life penetrates the lens and will remain there forever. Every photo is a memorable moment of musicians, singers or actors who have entrusted Kevin Westenberg with the task of conveying their image to the world.

This exhibition was on display at the Kobe Fashion Museum for two and a half months.