Photographer David LaChapelle Glitzes Up Gas Stations and Oil Refineries

Gas Am Pm, © 2013 David LaChapelle Studio. Courtesy the artist and Paul Kasmin Gallery.

Land Scape Kings Dominion, © 2013 David LaChapelle Studio. Courtesy the artist and Paul Kasmin Gallery.

LAND SCAPE is a stunning exhibition of large-scale photographs by David LaChapelle that comment on oil production and distribution around the globe. This time, the Maui-based photographer who is more well-known for his work in the fashion world, turns his lens on the oil industry combining two series of works entitled Gas Station and Refineries. At first, the practically lurid, electric images seem like real monolithic refineries and gas stations. A closer look reveals that clever trickery is at hand and, in fact, the subjects of his photographs are handcrafted scale models made from recycled materials—egg cartons, tea canisters, hair curlers, and various other disposable items. LaChapelle’s otherworldly sites look magical and dazzling, providing just the right irony when it comes to our dependence on oil and culture of consumption.

LAND SCAPE is on view through March 1, 2014 at Paul Kasmin Gallery in NYC.

Gas 76, © 2013 David LaChapelle Studio. Courtesy the artist and Paul Kasmin Gallery.

Land Scape Riverside, © 2013 David LaChapelle Studio. Courtesy the artist and Paul Kasmin Gallery.

Gas BP, © 2013 David LaChapelle Studio.Courtesy the artist and Paul Kasmin Gallery.

Land Scape Green Fields, © 2013 David LaChapelle Studio. Courtesy the artist and Paul Kasmin Gallery.

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