Irving Penn- The passing of a legend

Last week, The photographer of all photographers passed away at 92.
While most people will probably remember Irving Penn for his amazing fashion photography,
I will remember him for his work with Clinique.
In particular, the twice a day ad.

I was very fortunate to begin my career with Clinique when it was still a baby.
I was a baby back then too! So young.
It was a very exciting time.
Clinique always believed the product was the star and as a result, you didn't see a face associated with the line.
When the twice a day ad was created, the company (just about everyone back then was female)
decided there was only one photographer.
Irving Penn.

This ad really made an impact.
When the book PASSAGE came out, It was featured in his book.
In the cosmetic industry, it was beyond cutting edge.

Way back then, the company was so tiny. There were only a handful of Education Mangers to take care of the entire country.
At that time, it was only found in the U.S.
Many people had not heard of it.
Hard to imagine now.

The picture above is a window display in Paris.
Even if you don't speak French, the message is clear.

Holiday store postcard from Switzerland.
Clinique grew and all of us grew along with it.

But, the one person that really helped it grow via his fantastic photography
was Irving Penn.