Lucien Clergue “Nu Zebre”

Beautiful nudes and Pablo Picasso … an interesting mix of subject matter but one that Picasso would approve of, no doubt.

The nude images are excellent, with the figure studies defined by blind shadows that curve over the subjects like animal stripes and in other photos, water highlights that sparkle.

Pictures of Clergue’s friend Picasso focus on the intensity of the artist in repeated unique image captures. An artist’s discussion at Throckmorton’s revealed the longstanding relationship between Clergue and Picasso.

Clergue is inventive, a master of composition and of the use of light and shadow. The resulting images look effortless and natural; they are clean, sensuous yet pure, and attain a quiet, understated elegance. Jean Cocteau described Clergue as "a poet with a camera." Pablo Picasso proclaimed Clergue "the Monet of the camera."

This is a masterful exhibit and well executed. Now, through July 3.

For more information: Throckmorton Fine Art