Kadir Nelson’s “Savoring Summer” |

Kadir Nelson’s “Savoring Summer” |

The cover for the magazine’s fall Style Issue was done by the artist Kadir Nelson, and depicts a vivid, sunlit scene in Central Park. It’s not the first time Nelson has captured a slice of New York life—he’s previously drawn a game of stickball and a day on the beach—and we recently talked to Nelson about his inspirations and his own sense of style.

So you posed for this image in person, as a reference.

Yes. The main subject is dressed all in whites, sitting in the shade next to a beautiful woman, and enjoying a lime-green popsicle. This dude is the embodiment of cool. I don’t think I’m as cool, but I knew what I was aiming for, so I posed for the photo reference.

It’s the Style Issue. What’s the favorite piece of clothing you’ve ever owned?

I have a sleek Armani jacket that dresses up or down really well. It’s very comfortable and stylish. I always get compliments whenever I wear it. My fashion aspirations are very simple: style and comfort.
feature-small:

Kadir Nelson’s “Savoring Summer” |

Kadir Nelson’s “Savoring Summer” |

Kadir Nelson’s “Savoring Summer” |

The ice pop is so specific. Is it a memory or something more imagined?

The image is based on a memory from a trip to South Africa. I was visiting a school and noticed a young, very dark-skinned kid enjoying a bright-turquoise lollipop. The color was amplified against her skin. It was beautiful, and I wanted to create a painting that had a similar feel. But the image is also meant to symbolize the end of summer, so a popsicle made the most sense.

Kadir Nelson’s “Savoring Summer” |

You grew up on the Jersey Shore and went to school in Brooklyn. What are your thoughts on Central Park?

It’s such an amazing place, especially during the summer. On a beautiful day, it’s teeming with people who are bike riding, kayaking, running, playing baseball, sunbathing, etc. I think it’s essential to the well-being of the city.

For more of Nelson’s Cover Stories, see below:

Kadir Nelson’s “Savoring Summer” |

“Schomburg Center, Harlem, New York”

Kadir Nelson’s “Savoring Summer” |

“A Day at the Beach”

Kadir Nelson’s “Savoring Summer” |

“Generations”

The New Yorker Store

Covers, cartoons, and more.

Sourse: newyorker.com

No votes yet.
Please wait...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *