It was five years ago that Rizzoli approached Karen Elson about making a book of images based on her life, an easy sell regarding a model and musician of Elson’s success and longevity. But she didn’t see value in simply compiling beautiful photos of herself throughout her decades-long career.
“The Red Flame” by Karen Elson cover; photo by Tim Walker, British Vogue, December 2013. Courtesy of Rizzoli Elson says she sees a need for a book like hers both from where she is in her life, confident and unafraid of professional blowback, and a growing trend of models being championed for having their own voice.
“Often when the mirror is held up to the industry, we all know that at times there’s toxic behavior that goes on behind the scenes. And so many people are afraid to talk about it,” she continues.