Mario Testino's Museum

Last Thursday we went to MATE Museo Mario Testino in Barranco. JP was curious to see it as he'd never been before, and hearing about it made me excited. MATE is the only museum in the world that has a permanent exhibition of Mario's photography. There is also a separate room that houses temporary displays of works by other Peruvian photographers. Admission to the museum costs S/.15 (about AU$7). It was so quiet inside that you could have heard a pin drop!

The first room featured flawless photographs of Kate Moss. I still can't decide whether I prefer the black and white photo or the vibrant up close and personal body paint shot. Mario first photographed Kate nearly 25 years ago so it doesn't surprise me that she is also a good friend of him and an inspiration to his work. In fact, he has even created a book for her as a tribute. The book, which is available to purchase at MATE's gift shop, is a large collection of his pictures of her.

The story goes that Mario handed Kate a box of face paints and
told her where and how to paint them.

There was something about this portrait that held
my attention for longer.

Particularly fascinating was the 'Alta Moda' (high fashion) room which exhibits photographs of Peruvians in costumes unique to the mountains around Cusco. The garments are designed in a way that the different images on the fabric convey certain messages about the wearer, such as what his or her occupation might be. At the Inca markets in Miraflores you can see tonnes of items of clothing with similar colourful, elaborate designs. JP told me that these costumes are still worn by people living in the mountains today.

Traditionally, these costumes are worn during festivals or when
a family member has died.

The highlight of the museum was without a doubt the room dedicated to Mario's portraits of Princess Diana. A security officer opened the door for us and as soon as we stepped inside the room we both said, "Wow!" Diana was smiling at us from every angle of the room. Mario's intention was to make her look natural and to create a sense of intimacy. You can't help but admire the portraits and wonder what she might have been thinking at the time. Her smile brings the room to life and the Versace dress only makes the encounter that more special.