If there's one exhibition that makes us eagerly await October, it's that of Rafael Pavarotti, one of the most sought-after fashion photographers of the moment. A photographer committed to a less discriminatory future, he regularly brings a political and social dimension to his photographs, in an industry that is constantly evolving. Fashion brands such as Dior, Balmain, and Maison Margiela, and magazines like Vogue, iD ou Acne Paper They call upon him for his lively, pop and surreal approach. 

Brazilian, more precisely born in the state of Pará in the Amazon, Rafael Pavarotti developed his artistic sensibility through a perspective entirely different from that of the industry he serves. He maintains a unique relationship with nature, the traditions of his region, and his family's tastes. At the age of 12, he used a camera for the first time. The natural environment in which he grew up allowed him to explore themes and a form of creativity culturally distinct from those found in the fashion world. 

He traveled the world, teaching himself photography and immersing himself in four different ecosystems. His first stop was Rio de Janeiro at the age of 16, followed by São Paulo and London, before settling in Paris. His style, his perspective, and his experience as a Brazilian man were shaped throughout his travels. He chose to adapt to, or, conversely, resist the conventions of each place he visited. 

Rafael Pavarotti's photographs are imbued with vibrant colors, surreal clothing, and compelling narratives. With his high-contrast lens, he evokes memories and ideas from his models. His visual world is characterized by meticulous detail and a rich collaborative approach. The balance between form and color is exceptionally precise, leading us to consider him one of the greatest photographers of his time. 

The artist states that he wants to work for future generations by creating role models that all children can see themselves reflected in. We are still deeply entrenched in a society divided by beauty standards. Physical privilege raises questions about fairness and equality. Yet, his work reflects a wide diversity of genders and ethnicities. At the heart of figurative art, the photographer subtly inserts political messages. He uses the art of creating beauty to serve a quiet revolution against the highly controversial term "beauty." 

At the MAD exhibition, over 200 prints will be on display, ranging from covers of major fashion magazines to portraits of influential stars like Rihanna, Harry Styles, and Beyoncé. Some campaigns will be highlighted, with the most interesting element being to guess which major fashion house the photographer worked for. He brings a different approach to each brand and its values, without compromising the power of his colorful and minimalist photographs. 

Rafael Pavarotti made his mark in this industry because he remained true to his roots: his work features his grandmother's colorful tableware, the landscapes of his childhood, and the women of his family. His identity is what makes him unique, but he also observed society through an engaged lens, giving a voice to models, people who face discrimination, and activists. 

"Rafael Pavarotti, photographer"

Decorative Arts Museum
107, rue de Rivoli, Paris 1^er 
From October 2, 2026 to May 2, 2027

madparis.fr/Rafael-Pavarotti-photographe

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