Collaborating with Penny Slinger: A Portrait Session in the Los Angeles Studio

Collaborating with Penny Slinger: A Portrait Session in the Los Angeles Studio (Rory Lewis Photographer 2024).

I recently had the pleasure of collaborating with the extraordinary Penny Slinger on a portrait sitting at my Los Angeles studio. This session brought together the worlds of art and photography, featuring Penny in a unique and elegant Ikonostas kimono. Known for its luxurious silk satin fabric, the kimono has an ethereal, artistic quality that complements Penny’s style. Some versions of the piece include a mix of soft tulle and the sheerest silk, creating layers that add depth and fluidity to the look. Straps extend from the collar, which can be styled in various ways — as a playsuit, wrap dress, or even an underbust frame — offering incredible versatility and inviting creativity in each shot. The kimono sleeves, finished with elasticized bands, allow the styling to shift effortlessly between long and short sleeves, echoing the multifaceted essence of Penny’s artistic spirit.

Collaborating with Penny Slinger: A Portrait Session in the Los Angeles Studio (Rory Lewis Photographer 2024).

Working with Penny was truly inspiring. Her career spans decades of groundbreaking contributions to surrealism and feminist art. Her work dives deeply into themes of self-exploration, the feminine psyche, and the erotic. She uses diverse mediums, from photography to sculpture and collage, crafting pieces that provoke thought and invite viewers to journey through her surreal expressions. Penny's connection to surrealist art began in the 1960s and 70s, during which she explored themes of dreams, desire, and female liberation. Over the years, her work has evolved to incorporate Tantra and the archetypes of the Divine Feminine, making her a powerful presence in the world of contemporary art.

This collaborative session was enriched by Penny’s artistic influences and her presence, which brought an authenticity and depth to each image. The portraits we created encapsulate her essence — a fusion of mysticism, artistry, and avant-garde elegance. Working with creatives like Penny, who possess both history and innovation in their art, is always a rewarding experience and a reminder of the timeless quality that true artistry can bring to the portrait genre.

As a photographer, my goal is to bring out authentic expressions in my clients. This is achieved through careful direction and imaginative scenarios that encourage sitters to show their true selves. With a client list that ranges from royalty and former prime ministers to Wall Street CEOs and Hollywood stars, I’ve honed a style that combines both natural and thought-provoking elements. Having a presence in Los Angeles, New York, and London enables me to connect with clients worldwide, creating portraits that capture significant moments and embody the unique stories of each individual.

This session with Penny Slinger is just one example of the magic that can unfold when art and portraiture meet, producing images that resonate beyond the moment and celebrate the legacy of true creativity.