Oscar Abolafia was a renowned glamour photographer whose career spanned over several decades, capturing some of the most iconic figures in the entertainment industry. His remarkable body of work is now celebrated in a newly published book titled *WOMEN: Icons by Oscar*, released by Lanoo Publishers. This collection features an array of portraits that showcase the beauty and charisma of the women who passed before his lens, alongside personal anecdotes that highlight the relationships he built with his subjects.
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Joanna Abolafia, his widow, recently shared insights about her husband’s career and his unique interactions with various stars. Oscar, who passed away in March 2020 at the age of 85, left behind a legacy defined by striking images that resonate with the essence of the celebrities he photographed. Joanna reflects on his artistic journey, reminiscing about some of the standout moments and connections he experienced throughout his life.
One of Oscar’s most notable subjects was the legendary Elizabeth Taylor. Joanna recalls their complex relationship, filled with both admiration and friction. “They had a real love-hate relationship,” she revealed. “Many times, she hated him, and many times, she loved him. They really got personal with each other.” Joanna believes that Taylor held a unique significance in Oscar’s life, as they shared a mutual respect that made their interactions memorable.
Among her favourite images from Oscar’s collection is a striking photograph of Elizabeth Taylor adorned with a luxurious fur hat. “It’s such a beautiful shot,” Joanna stated, emphasising the allure and talent of the actress. Taylor’s enduring appeal, paired with Oscar’s skill, resulted in moments captured on film that continue to resonate with audiences today.
Before Taylor rose to fame, Oscar developed connections with other prominent figures, including actress Faye Dunaway. Joanna noted that before Dunaway became a household name, she worked as a waitress in Upstate New York, where she and Oscar crossed paths. “Oscar was working in the area, so they got to know each other and sort of liked each other,” Joanna explained. Their acquaintance predated Dunaway’s rise to stardom, illustrating the early days of her career and Oscar’s keen eye for talent.
As Dunaway transitioned into the limelight, her newfound celebrity status altered their dynamic. “They didn’t hang out together, but they really knew each other,” Joanna reminisced. Despite the passage of time and the barriers that fame created, their early connection remained a significant part of their story. Oscar later had the opportunity to photograph Dunaway again, capturing her essence as a movie star while evoking nostalgia for their earlier encounters.
Joanna also reflected on the evocative nature of the photographs that Oscar captured, particularly the moments that conveyed their history. “They’re very special pictures, I find. She recognised him, but she didn’t really want to,” Joanna observed. This tension is visible in the portraits, revealing the unspoken bond and history they shared. The photographs contain layers of meaning, evoking the past while illustrating the evolution of both the artist and the subject.
As *WOMEN: Icons by Oscar* hits the shelves, it stands as a testament to Oscar Abolafia’s remarkable legacy as a glamour photographer. The carefully curated collection not only celebrates the beauty and talent of its subjects but also sheds light on the personal connections that shaped his artistic journey. Joanna hopes that readers will appreciate both the artistry involved and the relationships that underpinned Oscar’s work.
The book is now available for purchase, allowing fans of photography and cinema alike to explore the stunning visual storytelling that Oscar Abolafia crafted throughout his life. As each portrait unfolds, it provides a window into the glamour and complexity of the stars, marking Oscar’s indelible impact on the world of photography and pop culture.