Now Is All There Is

In this remarkable series of black and white images photographer Rick Guest and stylist Olivia Pomp present a modern take on the classical world of ballet. This project is the coming together of three separate disciplines; photography, fashion and dance, into one vision. Away from the confines of the stage and traditional costume, the dancers are able to demonstrate their breath-taking capabilities in an uninhibited atmosphere.

Olivia and Rick have a unique partnership which has developed over many years of collaboration on international editorial commissions. Rick’s extensive experience of photographing athletes - most recently for the 2012 London Olympics - gives him a unique insight into how best to capture the human body in motion,seizing moments of weight and weightlessness. These images illustrate key tenets of balletic technique, balance and poise, but with a strong fashion edge that is both evocative and playful.

For this project, Olivia focuses on projecting the strength and power inherent in the dancers’ poise, underlining their form by styling with unconventional garments and accessories custom-crafted by young British designers: Derek Lawlor, Hannah Morgan, Alison Lewis, Georgina Pragnell and Ana Rajcevic.

Rick and Olivia are honoured to work with The Royal Ballet and the astounding array of luminary dancers and choreographers of such international renown. Dancers include Edward Watson, Marianella Nunez, Stephen McRae, Nehemiah Kish, Johannes Stepanek, Eric Underwood, Zenaida Yanowsky, Lauren Cuthbertson, Thiago Soares and Melissa Hamilton.

There are 35 photographs with each image float mounted and framed in American oak to form a dramatic installation. All art pieces are a limited edition of six and will be for sale.

RICK GUEST is a highly regarded internationally renowned photographer who has worked on a diverse array of projects & campaigns for clients such as Nike, BMW, Sony, British Airways, Ferrari and most recently the advertising for the 2012 London Olympics. Rick has been specialising in high performance subjects, from world class athletes to Formula 1 cars, for over fifteen years. His technical skill and aesthetic vision have been instrumental in the creation of this incredible project with THE ROYAL BALLET.

OLIVIA POMP is a highly experienced international stylist and Fashion Editor. Born in Germany, Olivia studied languages and the art of couture tailoring in Munich. She was fashion editor of German GQ before moving to the UK and becoming fashion director at British Esquire and has been a contributing fashion editor for the Financial Times HTSI magazine. Olivia is currently contributing to Intelligent Life and fashion director for 125 Magazine. She has worked on numerous high-profile editorial and commercial projects, including campaigns for Burberry, Gucci, Smythson, Pringle, Aquascutum and M&S.