Exclusive: Giorgio Armani brings an exhibit with photographer Aldo Fallai to India for the first time

Together designer, Giorgio Armani and photographer, Aldo Fallai changed the fashion photography landscape. The black and white photos inspired by art history and cinematic storytelling portrayed men and women through a modern lens. The clothing came alive through its surroundings. Now, they are bringing their collaboration of nearly three decades in the form of an exhibition at Mumbai’s Jio World Plaza Atrium from February 12th to March 9th. This also marks the opening of Giorgio Armani’s store opening in the Jio World Plaza, Mumbai today.

Ahead Vogue India exclusively spoke to the Florentine photographer about the artistic vision behind his iconic photographs.

VI: Your photography for Giorgio Armani has defined a certain era of style. Can you describe your approach to capturing the essence of Armani’s designs and the personalities of the people wearing them?

Aldo Fallai: I managed to capture the essence of both the creations and the people who wear them by starting from the reality that surrounds us. In a way, it’s a translation of reality, presenting an idealised version of the world around us. Visually, I interpreted this by softening certain aspects, making the women less overtly sexy, more curious and the men less stiff and more relaxed.

VI: The exhibit spans nearly three decades of your work with Giorgio Armani. What were some of the most significant creative challenges you faced during this time, and how did you overcome them?

AF: We faced many challenges throughout our long collaboration, most related to time. Between the show and the creation of the images, we had limited time but we were both tireless workers, never intimidated by the workload. On the contrary, we always took our work very seriously so the challenges were manageable. What truly made a difference, though, was the almost magical understanding between us. This proved essential in visually representing Armani’s artistic intentions. When I saw all the photos from the exhibition together, it took me back in time.

VI: Your work often draws inspiration from art history, including Tuscan Mannerism and Caravaggio. How do these influences manifest in your fashion photography?

AF: I was born in Florence and still live here. There’s no place I would rather be. As a proud Florentine, I live immersed in the history of art. I am captivated by it and reinterpret it in a modern light. But at its core, my approach follows a structure rooted in the late 16th century, where man is the centre of every composition, and light plays a crucial role. My use of the American shot, for example, is inspired by these principles.