Brigitte Bardot, 1965

Douglas Kirkland  

Golden Metallic Print 30 × 30 in | 76.2 × 76.2 cm printed in 2021, hand-signed by the artist, this is NOT a posthumous work. In Brigitte Bardot, 1965, Douglas Kirkland's photography mastery captures a portrait of the icon, exemplifying the natural, arresting beauty she exuded. Kirkland captures the blonde bombshell, Brigitte Bardot, considered the sex symbol of the 20th century, in Mexico City. The pictures were shot in 1965 during the filming of Viva Maria! Douglas Kirkland was brought on as a special photographer for the film. He spent time on set shooting Bardot and co-star Jeanne Moureau. Kirkland's portrait of Bardot captures her natural eroticism, a picture of an unrestricted youth full of desire, evoking sexuality not forced but felt. Therefore, Bardot's unapologetic sexuality created a force that inspired the sexual revolution of the 1960s. With a gaze that seems to look through the viewer and into the beyond, Kirkland's photo of Bardot symbolizes the profound effect the actress would have on Hollywood censorship. Bardot's rebellious attitude towards traditional depictions of femininity helped break down barriers for the public and society.