Golden Boy, New York City, 1990

Signed, titled, dated and numbered from edition of 7 in pencil on verso.

Albert Watson’s unmistakable visual style bears the imprint of his background in graphic design and film, evident in the distinctiveness of his images and their narrative quality. Central to his approach is the conceptualization of a photograph, the convergence of visual elements and ideas to transform concepts into tangible images. When asked about the origins of his ideas, Albert emphasizes the importance of constant mental exercise and perpetual quest for inspiration.

During one such occasion, Albert found himself photographing an ad campaign for The Gap. Enthralled by the exquisite beauty of a five-year-old model’s visage, he sought permission from the child’s mother to extend the session beyond the scheduled hours. A creative concept was germinating in his mind.

Albert Watson possesses a perpetual attentiveness that enables him to envision an image prior to capturing it. He maintains, “I’m always on the lookout for a shot.” This acute awareness of his surroundings prompts him to pause and seize the moment, whether it involves returning home late at night after a photo shoot in Paris or embarking on a shoot along the mist-covered coast of a Scottish isle.

For the “Golden Boy” concept, Albert envisioned imbuing the child with a metallic hue reminiscent of a bronze statue. He achieved this effect by applying a bronze spray, which not only tinted the skin but also transformed the boy’s dark hair into a blond hue.

Captured with an 8×10 camera using a standard lens, the resulting image exudes a surreal quality, with the subject positioned mere feet away. Albert strategically manipulated light to shape the image according to his distinctive style, enhancing contrasts to accentuate the texture of the boy’s hair and the contours of his face.

Despite its apparent simplicity, the image possesses a multi-dimensional allure, inviting contemplation akin to viewing a statue, especially when drawn to the boy’s direct gaze.

Albert Watson’s portfolio spans a diverse range of subjects, from celebrity portraits to ad campaigns and landscapes. He dedicates time to personal projects close to his heart while continually seeking fresh ideas and images. “Golden Boy” exemplifies how a vivid imagination can materialize into a captivating photograph, serving as inspiration for others to embark on their own creative journeys.