When photographer Sandro Miller was looking for a way to celebrate the great photographers and famous photos that inspired him, he found a willing partner in actor John Malkovich. Together they have recreated some of the most iconic portraits of the twentieth century. Miller’s photo series of Malkovich, titled Malkovich, Malkovich, Malkovich: Homage to Photographic Masters, includes versions of pictures by Diane Arbus, Andy Warhol, Dorothea Lange, and Yousuf Karsh, each recreating in perfect detail the look and mood of the original.
The photos are hilarious, creepy, and bizarre, adjectives sometimes used to describe the unique talent of John Malkovich. There is a portrait of Malkovich as a Depression-era migrant mother. Malkovich as Salvador Dali. As Alfred Hitchcock. Even as Che Guevara. If Arbus et al were his inspiration, then Malkovich must be equally considered a muse. “John is the most brilliant, prolific person I know,” says Miller. “His genius is unparalleled. I can suggest a mood or an idea and within moments, he literally morphs into the character right in front of my eyes. He is so trusting of my work and our process… I’m truly blessed to have him as my friend and collaborator.” The exhibition runs at Catherine Edelman Gallery in Chicago from November 7th to January 31st.
