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Hotel Il Pellicano

Slim Aarons

Hotel Il Pellicano

1980

archival pigment print

96 × 145 cm

UNIQUE

Location: Clichy, France

https://www.artransfer.com/web/image/product.template/33190/image_1920?unique=1a6c87c

2,440 € 2440.0 EUR 2,440 €

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About the artwork

A view of the Hotel Il Pellicano in 1980 captures a scene of leisure around a swimming pool overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. The composition is framed by dark, silhouetted tree trunks in the foreground, drawing the viewer's eye to the vibrant activity beyond. Numerous individuals are depicted relaxing on lounge chairs, some under bright pink and blue parasols, while others are in the pool. Several sailboats are visible on the deep blue water in the background, suggesting a coastal setting. The Hotel Il Pellicano, established in 1965 by Michael and Patricia Graham, was a destination for a clientele of socialites and celebrities. Aarons had a long-standing relationship with the hotel, frequently visiting from the late 1960s through the 1980s to document its atmosphere and guests. His photographs from Il Pellicano are part of his broader body of work that documents the "dolce vita" lifestyle, characterized by relaxation and sophistication. The work reflects the aesthetic of the hotel, which integrated with its natural surroundings, featuring terraced gardens and views of the sea.

Expert opinion

Slim Aarons' work occupies a specific niche within the photography market, positioned at the intersection of photojournalism and lifestyle documentation. His images are considered historical records of a particular era of wealth and leisure, appealing to collectors interested in mid-century glamour and social history. The market for his prints, particularly archival pigment prints, remains stable, supported by consistent demand from both private collectors and institutions. The unique nature of this print, as indicated, contributes to its individual valuation within his broader oeuvre.

About the artist

George Allen Aarons (1916–2006), known as Slim Aarons, was an American photographer recognized for his images of socialites, jet-setters, and celebrities. He began his career as a combat photographer during World War II, serving in the United States Army and earning a Purple Heart. After the war, Aarons transitioned to chronicling the lives of the affluent, moving to California to photograph celebrities and later establishing a bureau for Life magazine in Rome. His work appeared in publications such as *Life*, *Town & Country*, and *Holiday* magazines. Aarons developed a style characterized by natural light and a focus on the elegance of his subjects, often stating his aim was to photograph "attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places." He eschewed artificial lighting and makeup artists, relying on the inherent qualities of the scenes he captured. His ability to gain the trust of his subjects allowed him to produce candid portrayals of their lifestyles. Key works include "Kings of Hollywood" (1957) and "Poolside Gossip" (1970). His photographs have been compiled into several books, including *A Wonderful Time: An Intimate Portrait of the Good Life* (1974) and *Poolside with Slim Aarons*.

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