Timothy White is one of the world’s most sought-after celebrity photographers. For over thirty years he has captured the intimate and playful sides of legendary actors as well as the innocence of up and comers. He consistently demonstrates a mastery of his technique and an uncanny ability to incorporate an entire narrative into a single image. This undeniable talent, coupled with intimate access to subjects who are some of the most important figures of our time, has produced an extremely compelling body of work, both in terms of historical importance and as some of the best examples of the genre.
Born in Fort Lee, New Jersey – America’s very first film town – White has always been an avid student of the history of Hollywood. When his career took him to Los Angeles to take images of the stars and town he had so long admired, he would become an integral part of documenting that history. This started early, when White as a self-proclaimed “young pup” in long hair and a leather jacket was sent to photograph Sidney Poitier. In awe of Poitier’s amazing talent and dignified air, White was stunned when the actor asked him to help choose a wardrobe for the poolside shoot — one of the many times the pair would work together over the years.
The photographs on display represent a cross-section of White’s vast archive and demonstrate the deep trust and relationships he has built with his subjects over the years, including with Sophia Loren, who graciously allowed him to direct her in a phenomenal shoot that featured her running on the beach, laying on a rock, and even jumping in the water and ruining her gown. Also featured is a photograph captured of Brad Pitt, who went on a motorcycle trip with White. The selection also includes a portrait of Whitney Houston taken during the many times she worked with him throughout her life, a powerfully emotive image of James Gandolfini, and a photo of Jay-Z captured in the days before he grew into the mogul and legend he was to become.
“It is an absolute honor to host this exhibition at Hotel Bel-Air,” said White. “I’m all about the history, and I have always been very aware of the hotels in this town – The Beverly Hills Hotel and Hotel Bel-Air – and their powerful representation of the history of Hollywood. This exhibition felt like such a natural synergy between my life, my career, my legacy, and the hotel’s life and legacy.”
The exhibition is complimentary and open to the public June 1 – July 31, 7 days a week. All photos are available for purchase through the hotel’s concierge.