We've all known at least one in our lives. An insolent child who, through sheer genius or cosmic intervention, gets caught with his hand in the cookie jar and argues his case with such brazen arrogance, we find ourselves laughing instead of sending him for a "time out." His twisted charisma amuses us, and we find that it's easier to turn a blind eye because we get something in return -- a chance to momentarily share in his casual disrespect, unrestrained by convention. Then, just as the fascination begins to wear off, the tide shifts and we find ourselves on the receiving end of his song and dance. Impoliteness turns into audacity, sassiness into impudence, and we're left staring in the mirror - dumbstruck - asking, "what the fuck was I thinking?"
"I could pull my penis out right now, and I guarantee you no one would be offended." Terry Richardson
Terry Richardson is fashion's insolent child, still acting out from his admittedly unresolved catastrophic childhood. An artist who, through the distorted lens of his camera, has created a world wrought with titillation and mayhem that engrosses -- sometimes even paralyzes -- those watching from the sidelines. We feel sorry for him and hold him to the standards of a ten year old boy. The only problem is, he isn't ten. He's a very adult, highly sought after fashion photographer with access to young, career-hungry models afraid to say no. Pair this with his cunning and gross oversimplification of right and wrong as it relates to professional ethics, and you have a recipe for disaster staring you point blank in the face. (Replace "pull my finger" with "yank my wang" here.)
"At first, I'd just want to do a few nude shots, so I'd take off my clothes, too. I'd even give the camera to the model and get her to shoot me for a while. It's about creating a vibe, getting people relaxed and excited. When that happens,' he adds, grinning his goofy, adolescent grin, 'you can do anything." - Terry Richardson
So, how is it that he continues to act out without so much as a slap on the hand? Because he's part of the larger social scene -- the fashion elite -- who have no interest in losing their cool club status. They'll shrug it off, even when it turns their stomachs, because they don't want to tattle on their high profile friend. That's what being cool has become. The ability to keep ones place in the pecking order, no matter how many chickens lose an eye because one silly cock is hell bent on having his way. Sorry, peeps. It's time to shake the rug clean. Uncool is the new cool if it means assholes will be forced to use their super powers for good. And if you think I'm blowing smoke, be my guest. It simply means you're not ready to give up your varsity jacket for a spot on the debate team. So, before I sign off, just a few words to Terry. Yes, we know you have an enormous penis. Yes, we know you have loads of talent in that noggin. And yes, we know you can afford a lifetime of therapy, so no excuses. Step away from the teenage waifs and nobody gets hurt.
"Maybe it's the psychological thing that I was a shy kid, and now I'm this powerful guy with his boner, dominating all these girls." Terry Richardson
(P.S. Why am I writing this now? I actually wrote it last month when the whole Richardson scandal hit the net. Unfortunately, I was supposed to be on break from TDLC, so I tucked it away until now. Besides, it's not like we've seen the last of him. Did I mention he likes to choke cats?)
Photo: Fred Hsu, Monterey Bay Aquarium
images: flickr.com, coutorture.com
