A World in Colour

Machine Worker in Summer, 1937Once upon a time Surrealism in painting might have shocked or surprised viewers, but at this end of history I find surrealism in photography far more amusing. One of the pioneers of colour photography, Madame Yevonde (born Edith Cumber in 1893) used Vivex colour in 1932 – seven years before Norman Parkinson’s first colour photographs appeared in fashion magazines.

At the time she began to experiment with this new medium, colour photography was considered crass and in poor taste. Madame Yevonde however decided to take her portrait photography into the realm of art and create fantastical images inspired by surrealism, and the vivid colour produced by the expensive Vivex process. Society was quickly won over by her enthusiasm and the ‘super-saturated absurdity’ of her portraits where models sat amongst strange theatrical props.

The Honorable Mrs Bryan Guinness as VenusHere is a small collection of her wonderful portraits – like Cecil Beaton on steroids. Sadly, World War II turned Madame Yevonde’s world black and white again, the world had changed and her market had vanished.

For more images visit this gallery at The Independent. 

Article from an unknown British magazine. Click for larger images and to read.