Monday, June 20, 2005
EVENT REVIEW: HURRELL/LANGDON PHOTO EXHIBIT KICKOFF, MAPLE DRIVE, BEVERLY HILLS
by Don Rose
(JUNE 20 - Beverly Hills, CA) One of L.A.'s most popular eateries, Maple Drive, provided the setting for tonight's kickoff event for a new photography exhibit honoring legendary celebrity/glamour lensman, George Hurrell. Also-famous celeb photog Harry Langdon served as host for the reception, which raised money for The Garr Foundation. Guests enjoyed fine wine, cool jazz, and hot food prepared by the always-excellent Maple Drive chefs (highlights included chicken/beef skewers, veggie spring rolls, delectable pizzas and salmon swirls). Attendees were able to peruse and buy Hurrell prints and cards, and view many classic Langdon photos of stars such as Janet Jackson, Toni Braxton, Sugar Ray Leonard, Halle Berry, Cedric the Entertainer and Gabrielle Union (stars of The Honeymooners remake), and more.
Most interesting to compare the genius of Hurrell to that of Langdon. Langdon's large prints pop with vibrant color and his star subjects look the observer right in the eye, whereas Hurrell's black-and-white classics often show Hollywood actors of yesteryear looking away from the viewer (example: his Johnny Weismuller), always framed within an enchanting shadowy composition that led to his well-deserved reputation as the Master of Light and Dark.
Most interesting to compare the genius of Hurrell to that of Langdon. Langdon's large prints pop with vibrant color and his star subjects look the observer right in the eye, whereas Hurrell's black-and-white classics often show Hollywood actors of yesteryear looking away from the viewer (example: his Johnny Weismuller), always framed within an enchanting shadowy composition that led to his well-deserved reputation as the Master of Light and Dark.
To see the photo exhibit, and experience a wonderful meal while you're there, visit Maple Drive Restaurant at 345 North Maple Drive, Beverly Hills, California 90210. For more information on their establishment, visit http://www.mapledriverestaurant.com. Reservations: 310.274.9800; Office: 310.274.5927; E-mail: info@mapledriverestaurant.com .
