Cornel Lucas Photo Exhibition
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CORNEL LUCAS PHOTO EXHIBITION
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In collaboration with the Estate of Cornel Lucas, we are extremely proud to
present an exhibition honoring one of the world’s most celebrated
photographers. Cornel Lucas (1920–2012) remains the only photographer
ever awarded a BAFTA for Outstanding Contribution to the British Film Industry.
This exhibition includes original prints of Lucas and showcases his iconic portraits, capturing the golden age of cinema and the legendary stars who defined it. Lucas pioneered film portraiture in the 1940s and 1950s, creating luminous, timeless images of Marlene Dietrich, Katharine Hepburn, Gregory Peck, Lauren Bacall (all of which you can see at the exhibition), and many more. His work, characterised by a signature film-noir elegance, continues to shape how we remember these cinematic icons.
The exhibition will remain at ActOne until September in our lounge and café-bar areas. Entrance is free.
To see additional images from the Cornel Lucas Collection please visit: www.cornellucas.com
Please direct print enquiries to: archive@cornellucas.com
CORNEL LUCAS (1920–2012)
Described in the Royal Academy Magazine as “one of the greatest British portrait photographers of the 20th century”, Lucas is best known for his iconic portraits of film stars. Born in Highbury, London, his passion for photography began at age 11 with a Kodak Box Brownie. He honed his skills using his sisters as models, developing film in the family bathroom.
At 15, he entered the film industry as a trainee while studying photography part-time. During World War II, he served in the RAF’s aerial reconnaissance unit before transitioning to glamour photography post-war. At Pinewood Studios he became renowned for his masterful use of a 12"x10" plate camera. His portrait session with Marlene Dietrich in 1951 led to an exclusive role at the studios, where he photographed top British and Hollywood stars, producing iconic publicity stills.
In 1959, Lucas opened his own studio in Chelsea, expanding into fashion and advertising while continuing portraiture. His work captured the personality and essence of his subjects, earning him lasting acclaim.
Revived interest in his photography came in the 1980s when Lord Puttnam commissioned new work. In 1998, Lucas became the only photographer to receive a Bafta for his Outstanding Contribution to The British Film Industry. Major exhibitions followed, including a retrospective at the National Portrait Gallery in 2005. His work is displayed in prestigious institutions such as the V&A Museum and the National Media Museum.
To honor his
legacy, two short films and a limited edition of British postage stamps
were produced. His portraits remain some of the most enduring images of
classic cinema’s golden age.
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