Until November 3: ALL EYES ON CELEBRITIES. Santa Chiara Museum Complex, piazza del Duomo 2, San Gimignano. Open daily 10 am – 1 pm, 3 – 7 pm. Admission: € 13, reduced price ticket (children from 6 to 17): € 10.
One of the three ensembles of the San Gimignano Civic Museum, the Santa Chiara Museum Complex, has opened its doors to the public in 2024. This reopening introduces a range of new attractions, including a fresh section of the Archaeological Museum dedicated to the Via Francigena, and the revamped Modern and Contemporary Art Gallery. Adding to the excitement is the launch of an international photographic exhibition titled “All Eyes on Celebrities,” featuring portraits by American photographer Ken Nahoum, housed in the temporary section of the gallery.
The photography exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into Nahoum’s extensive collection of celebrity portraits, meticulously curated over his illustrious career. Renowned for his ability to capture both the gaze and essence of Hollywood luminaries, international musicians, and pop stars, Nahoum’s work has graced editorial spreads, album covers, and feature stories in prestigious publications such as Vogue, Rolling Stone, GQ, and Vanity Fair.
Nahoum’s journey into photography began in his twenties, sparked by an encounter with American model and actress Patti Hanson during a shoot. Initially daunted by the presence of celebrities, Nahoum gradually gained confidence and rapport, eventually forming meaningful connections with icons like Tupac, Janet Jackson, Cher, Willem Dafoe, Snoop Dogg, and Sylvester Stallone. Despite the varied personalities and challenges he encountered, Nahoum’s expertise in lighting and composition earned him acclaim, even amidst occasional disagreements such as with Cindy Crawford.
By 1988, Nahoum had evolved from a shy Brooklyn native into an internationally renowned photographer, expanding his portfolio to include commercials, music videos, and Public Service Announcements through his production company, Hypnotic Films. His association with Andy Warhol led him to document the enigmatic Hells Angels, a relationship that eventually saw them becoming his protectors during shoots in New York’s bustling Times Square.
Visitors to San Gimignano are encouraged not to miss Nahoum’s captivating art exhibition, alongside the unveiling of other exciting additions to the museum. The new museum section, featuring enhanced didactic and explanatory materials, seamlessly integrates with the existing Archaeological Museum. Meanwhile, the refreshed layout of the Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art promises improved visibility of the collection, complemented by new sections showcasing panoramic views of San Gimignano’s evolving landscape and captivating artistic expressions by local luminaries. (Sophia Koch)
Guests can purchase a combined ticket that is valid for two consecutive days allowing them access for all Civic Museums in San Gimignano. (Sophia Koch)
