Vogue Italia
February 2008

The thematic composition of
this Steven Meisel spread
is quite compelling.I'm inspired by all
the colors, patterns + textures.
The statuesque Karlie Kloss with 2 hens.And the exquisite pairing of Prada stockings
with Sicilian peasant/ Amish frocks.Not so long ago I was working on a book
where we sent a photographer to
capture a rural family living
biblically, "off the grid"
in Smithfield, Illinois.

He shot some of
the most hauntingly beautiful
photographs I have ever seen:
3 young boys ages 4, 9, and 11
in overalls chopping wood.
(The 4 yr old was ripped)But I was most taken
by his photograph of the
sole daughter, beautiful;
probably 15 or so,
motherless, and
hand-washing
her family's
clothing in
a basin.

It was ethereal.
It was the real thing.

This American Life