ICONIC - Avalon DiBernard

Created 2021

Iconic is an exploration of the most documented women of the early 2000s. From Paris Hilton to Lindsay Lohan, all women featured in the following were a part of an era that defined a generation of celebrity culture obsession. Iconic begins with Paris Hilton, who some consider the “queen” of celebrity culture, the one who perfectly paved a path for those trying to be on the next cover of a tabloid. This was a time before Twitter and Facebook, tabloids ruled the gossip roost and celebrities themselves took to sites like Myspace to air all gossip, drama and scandal. Reality TV was also at its peak, creating stars like Tiffany Pollard and Gemma Collins. People were intrigued and fascinated by the so-called train wrecks on screen. Child stars were transitioning as well, while paparazzi followed their every move into adulthood. This was a time when major networks like CNN would report breaking news of Paris Hilton going to jail. It was a ruthless, gritty and scandalous time in media; within an especially critical lens of young women in the spotlight.

I created this book as an homage to the women in pop culture who defined this era by photographing still lives that represent each woman by referencing their style, shows, movies, music or quotes. While most look down on those who have gotten famous from sex tapes or drug possession, I look at these figures as genuine human beings that have made mistakes, who are constantly watched and documented. All of my work is influenced by pop culture, whether it be music, movies or celebrities themselves, I am constantly influenced by those who paved the way for those who are now considered “influencers”. Celebrities like Paris Hilton, Lindsay Lohan, Kim Kardashian, Tiffany Pollard and Britney Spears were the pioneers and are all still considered iconic. I believe that these icons are smarter than the image they convey. As Hilton said in many interviews and documentaries, “it’s all an act”. If it’s all for the public, it just depends on how far one goes for fame. I admire this, for I couldn’t do half the things these people have done, but they were determined, young and having fun in Hollywood in their 20s. Could you blame them?