My Own Amanda
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David LaChapelle, My Own Marilyn
2002 | Chromogenic Print with Artist’s Frame
Edition of 10 + 5 Artist’s Proofs
NFS
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I can’t remember when I was first introduced to this photo, but it’s been ingrained in my memory for as long as I can recall. Perhaps it's due to the similarity it shares with Andy Warhol’s Marilyn Monroe (1967) screenprints, or maybe it's because of its striking colors and composition. Regardless, when I had the opportunity to acquire this piece, it felt like I was being reunited with a childhood teddy bear.
I’ve been fortunate enough to acquire some fantastic works, but this was the first time I felt like a piece had been waiting for me. It remains the centerpiece of my gallery wall—previously in my LA loft and currently here in NYC.
What adds to the significance of this piece is my time spent with David LaChapelle at his LA studio. We discussed this work and the intricate details that transformed Amanda into a "real-life" screenprint.
The thick, clumpy eyeshadow, the pixelated airbrushing across her face, the makeup streaking down her neck— all purposefully done to mimic the look, feel, and inconsistencies in the screen printing process. I’ll reserve my admiration for Mr. LaChapelle for another blog post; this one is about Amanda.
When the concept of the American Dream started, it surely was never meant to include Amanda and people like her. However, to me, she embodies the American Dream. She lives her life fearlessly, unapologetically and has continued to remain a part of the cultural zeitgeist since 1987— long before transgender rights became a prevalent social issue. She is a muse for LaChapelle, she’s starred in ad campaigns for Mac Cosmetics and Armani, she’s walked the runway for numerous fashion designers— most recently, walking in the Balenciaga SS24 Show. An eternal Club Kid, she still makes club appearances around the world and leverages her notoriety by selling her signature red lipstick, signed headshots and making Cameos.
There’s no reason she should be famous or have a seat at the table— but she is and she does. And she did it on her own terms, in her own way. We should all be so lucky.
