Hugh Arnold

Secret Gifts

2016

Internationally acclaimed photographer Hugh Arnold has always been driven to explore new territory in his field, frequently telling stories through breathtaking collages and murals. 

Arnold draws inspiration from Renaissance masters like Michaelangelo as well as icons of the 20th century such as Pablo Picasso. Sometimes intentional, sometimes by happenstance, Arnold can always find an element in his photography that calls back to one or more of the great painters of the past.

Born in Chester, England, Arnold originally trained as an actor. He turned to photography after becoming enamored by the light and landscapes of Australia. He worked for a time at Vogue Australia before setting off to Milan to work for fashion labels. From there, Arnold shot for various publications around the world, including Traveller and Glamour. 

In the early 2010s, Arnold had resolved to give up photography after a series of struggles. While packing up his studio, he came across a box of negatives he had taken approximately 20 years earlier. One picture in particular — a photograph of a woman underwater — caught his attention. Discovering this image saw him rekindle his passion for photography, and Arnold decided to embark upon creating a black-and-white underwater series depicting human development, from conception to adulthood. He took diving lessons and set about shooting the initial photos. Arnold presented the finished series in several exhibitions around the world, including in London, Chicago and Montenegro. 

Arnold lives in France with his wife, Celina, and their four children. His work is held in exclusive private collections around the world.

On 1stDibs, find Hugh Arnold black and white photography on 1stDibs.