For the first time since it’s groundbreaking publication, the emblematic book by Madonna, Sex, will be exhibited in large-format format images in a collaboration by Anthony Vaccarello, at Saint Laurent Rive Droite in Art Basel Miami Beach 2022. The once-shocking now timeless photographs will be on view in a temporary beachfront box built especially for the occasion.

Upon its release in 1992, Madonna’s provocative book became a controversial sensation around the globe, due to its bold erotic content and liberated views of sexual self-expression. Envisioned by one of the most decorated musicians of all time, Sex contained indelible imagery by Steven Meisel as well as written text by Madonna. Thirty years later, Sex remains a seminal artifact of culture and style, having paved the way for countless artists.

The exhibition is a celebration of a re-edition of the book by Rive Droite, published by Callaway, New York in a bespoke run of 800 copies created exclusively for Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello, of which a limited number will be signed by Madonna with proceeds bene ting the artist’s Raising Malawi charity via an auction in the upcoming months. T-shirts and tote bags will also be for sale at the exhibition.

Established in 2006 in response to the orphan crisis created by the AIDS epidemic, Raising Malawi has supported Malawi’s orphans and vulnerable children with critical resources including education, medical care, food, shelter, and psychosocial support. 

The Saint Laurent beachfront gallery will be free to visit for anyone over age 18 from November 29 to December 4 (10 AM – 7 PM).

saintlaurentrivedroite.com 

@ysl

@anthonyvaccarello

PHOTOGRAPHER: STEVEN MEISEL