American Jesus

In 1999 David LaChapelle started taking photos of Michael Jackson. Originally taken for the millenium cover of Rolling Stone Magazine LaChapelle continued to work with Michael Jackson and is said to have one of the last photo shoots of the pop sensation. The images portray Jackson as a modern day martyr and is called the 'American Jesus' series. It was on exhibition at Paul Kasmin Gallery this year nearly a decade after the series began. 

Michael Jackson was most definitely the most iconic figure LaChapelle has ever portrayed. He portrays him as a modern day Jesus, referring to the fame, fortune and recognition he gained in his lifetime. We as a public created this iconic figure and worshiped his work and talent. The images also depict how we destroyed him and killed him and his reputation through gossip and media. According to LaChapelle, 'these photos demonstrated his support for the pop icon against the persecution inflicted by the press and public. LaChapelle says anyone who consumed the tabloids gossiping about Jackson (especially during the molestation allegations) contributed to his fall from grace and transition "from being the most famous, most beloved singer to the most reviled, joked about..." The public tends to put stars on pedestals only to later kick them down.' David LaChapelle | Paul Kasmin, 

ART HAG

American Jesus: Archangel Michael

American Jesus: Hold Me, Carry Me Boldly