Julien Spiewak explores the body as living matter through light and texture. Rooted in fashion, he has developed an artistic vision centred on authenticity. Every image captures the essence and presence of the body.
Julien Spiewak is a French photographer whose Parisian apartment I had the pleasure of visiting one autumn evening. His artistry is rooted in fashion photography, with a remarkable portfolio that includes collaborations with iconic names such as Vivienne Westwood, YSL, Karl Lagerfeld and Versace, capturing legends like Donatella Versace and John Galliano.
From Fashion to Fine Art
Yet, Julien’s passion has always extended beyond fashion. He developed a unique style focused on art photography, drawing inspiration from furniture design, particularly the ornate details of Louis XV and the Rococo movement. His explorations led him to collaborate with esteemed institutions like the Museum of Hunting and Nature, Maison Balzac and Musée Cognacq-Jay.
Authenticity as Raw Material
Julien is captivated by the interplay of textures — wood, marble and skin — and the beauty of imperfection in the human body. One of his recent projects involved a collaboration with the Hotel Hermitage in Monaco, where he was invited to create a special series dedicated to the hotel.
Julien Spiewak embraces the beauty of authenticity in his photography, often selecting real people as models to celebrate the imperfections of skin. At the Hotel Hermitage, he orchestrated an open call for hotel staff, inviting them to become part of his artistic vision. This unique approach not only highlights the charm of individuality but also infuses his work with genuine character and warmth.
To his surprise, many hotel employees submitted their candidacies as models for his work.
He is also venturing into Asian motifs through a partnership with the Bangkok-based gallery West Eden, marking an exciting new chapter in his artistic journey.
A Vision Without Retouching
Julien’s creative process is grounded in classical training, beginning with preparatory sketches that define the composition and placement of his work. He eschews Photoshop, preferring to work with natural light and authentic textures to bring his vision to life.
In every frame, Julien Spiewak captures not just images but the very essence of the body.
From April 7, Julien Spiewak will exhibit at the Alliance Française in Lisbon, followed by PhotoBasel in June and the Rencontres de la Photographie d’Arles this summer. To mark the bicentenary of photography, the artist will also publish a new book featuring previously unpublished images, to be released soon in bookstores.
Where to Find Julien Spiewak’s Work
Galerie Espace_L
23 rue des Bains, 1205 Genève
espacel.net
Galerie NM Contemporary
17 rue de la Turbie, 98000 Monaco
nmcontemporary.com
Galería Álvaro Alcázar
C/ Saturnino Calleja 3, Madrid 28002
galeriaalvaroalcazar.com
West Eden Gallery
45/2 Sukhumvit 31, Klong Toei Nuea, Vadhana, Bangkok 10100
westedenbkk.com
