Thursday, June 3, 2010

Smash His Camera

Ron Galella was the original stalkerazzi and his most famous prey was Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. He tormented her and even followed her to Capri. She obtained a restraining order against him. The New York Post at the time called it "the most co-dependent celeb-pap(arazzi) relationship ever." Without Ron Galella, we wouldn't have any of these most iconic images of Jackie O. What I love most about them is how chic and stylish she looks in the late 1960's and early 1970's. She was definitely a fan of a fitted tee or sweater! One of my most prized possessions is Ron's book from 1974 Jacqueline by Ron Galella which you can still find online that is filled with even more candid shots.

What's even amazing is that Ron Galella is still making headlines. HBO will air a documentary about the photographer this Monday, June 7th at 9:00pm entitled Smash His Camera which will also have an accompanying exhibition at Clic Gallery on Broome Street. "Smash His Camera" is apparently what Jackie said to her secret service agent after Ron got a little too close for comfort after a bike ride to through the Park with John Junior. So glad they smashed it after he got some good photos!