If you would see Iris Apfel on the street, you’d definitely take note. Most likely you’d be first drawn to her signature thick, round glasses…hmmm…or perhaps it would be her huge high-end costume jewelry…or maybe her handcrafted and exotic pieces of clothing from all over the world…it’s hard to say. Regardless, you’ll know her when you see her. To me Iris is a walking installation of art and fashion. I’ve seen her once…it was my first year in New York City and way before the photography bug…
Anyway, then along came Easter in 2011 and that’s where I had the pleasure of meeting (and photographing) Albert Maysles, the great American filmmaker. Even as Maysles entered his mid eighties he was going strong filming the cast of characters who were all dressed up for the Easter parade on Fifth Avenue. Maysles was known for “putting the camera at a very close distance and letting the subject unfurl itself” and certainly made a name for himself with the productions of Grey Gardens and Gimme Shelter.
Unfortunately Maysles passed away a couple months ago at the age of 88, but not before he completed the documentary on Iris…and I went to the opening this week and it was awesome. A film that captures creativity, glamour and spirit…I mean really…here you have two people – eighty and ninety some years old – and doing what they love…and will continue to inspire all generations…a real treat!
Rest in peace Albert…you made a fabulous film!
gg
So nice … they both look like lovely and interesting people, just the sort you are always coming across in your city!
Exactly Susan! There’s such great people here! Thank you!
Fantastic! I want to be just like her when I am that age!!! I better start on the “look” now : ) What a treat to photograph him. Love your images. I am going to see if I can get the firm on the net… not sure it will show over here in Asia.
Isn’t she such inspiration? I mean just to have her spunk!!! I know you’ll enjoy it!! Thanks always!
Lucky, lucky you to have seen both in real life, Robin. I have seen Iris on FB many times and can just imagine the character she is. I bet the film is a knock-out. I’ll keep my eyes open for it.
A short film and very enjoyable especially taking in account that a 80 plus person is doing all the filming and the main star is in her 90’s and Iris’ husband hit 100! Thanks Ginnie!
Robin, This story is universal. In the small town where I grew up we had an Iris. Her name was Mrs. McKinney and she drove a shiny red convertible, big and old. Her style of dress was very much like that of Iris. She lived a life of adventure and passion – making sure that our small town had the biggest Ferris wheel down by the river, decorating it every year at Christmas to resemble a huge wreath. Point of your story – and mine, too – living life as exactly who you were meant to be – is it’s own reward. Loved the photos of both Iris and Albert on the link you included. How wonderful that you got to meet and take Albert’s picture – and that you know how much his life might impact your own. What role models for aging!
What role models indeed! I already love Mrs. McKinney! Yes, your point is so right on…living life exactly as who we are meant to be…it’s own reward. So well put…as usual! Thank you!!!
Way cool and very interesting. I love that they are just scooting down life’s highway doing their own thing right up to the very end. I’m hoping very soon that will be a story to be told about Bro and I too… Love and hugs and thanks for sharing. XoXo
Aren’t they though! I love that too! Yep, you two will always be a story! xoxo
Great personalities. What great pictures. I did not see Iris. I will keep an eye open for this documentary. Amazing what two people do even at ‘older’ age. An inspiration to keep going 🙂
Love and hugs.
Totally an inspiration to keep going! So agree! Thanks Astrid! xoxo
What an amazing story Robin and what a joy to see folk of this generation still pushing the envelope and being creative. It is sad that Albert has passed but at least he finished the project. I would also suspect that he lived a full and eventful life, equivalent to two or three of most folk.
The portraits sit well with the post and I’m sure he would have enjoyed them, and is still doing so from his new abode.
I’m so happy too that he was able to finish the project. I’m sure Iris was too! Thanks always shooter!
Love Iris – Seen her photos around as well but so neat that you met her and Albert as well.
Robin, you may not know it now but one day your life will be documented and shared with the world.
You are one of the most fascinating, beautiful, talented and biggest hearted people that I have ever had the honor of knowing.
You make a mark on this world, a difference in many, many lives and you are here for many reasons. Each chapter of your life unfolds a new and remarkable layer of the beautiful soul you are.
I love you for who you are and appreciate you so very much.
xoxoxo
Oh Lisa…doubtful that anyone would be interested in my life, ha…but thank you. You always make me feel good! But, THANK YOU!!!
Your post on Iris inspired me to put the documentary in my Netflicks list. Cant wait to see this.
Wonderful!!!
Wow, inspirational indeed.
Thanks Elena!
What a treat indeed! Love that she is now stealing the limelight of the young models in the latest commercial for whatever brand! She is such a strong personality. Will look out for the movie.