When photographer Gray Malin set out to shoot a vintage ski series, he picked—where else?—Aspen.
"I loved transforming Buckhorn Cabin into a European mountain chalet picnic; this was a special moment,” says Malin.
Gray Malin’s signature photographic style has captured colorful Italian beach scenes and balloon-adorned dromedaries in the desert. Now, thanks to a weeklong photo shoot in Aspen at the end of 2019, glamorous vintage ski shots will also be part of his global collection, which includes more than 30 series to date.
The photographer partnered with The Little Nell to create dozens of new vignettes, which are available for purchase (graymalin.com). “Shooting this project was an incredible experience,” says Malin. “Although it was a challenge to transport props, people and equipment up and down the mountains, this was a dream opportunity that couldn’t have worked out better. I was able to access many iconic locations in Aspen, which inspired me and served as perfect settings for the vintage scenes that I created. I hope that this series evokes nostalgia and gives a peek into this luxurious ski culture.”
Styled by Constance Golder, the models wore skiwear sourced almost entirely from Carbondale-based Vintage Ski World, and paired it with luxury touches like Louis Vuitton travel trunks or a 1950s Porsche. However, one long-haired eye-catcher stole the show: Jezzebel, a Bernese Mountain dog. Almost better behaved than the models (they were having snowball fights!), Jezzebel sat pretty and nailed shot after shot.
As part of the collaboration, The Little Nell will showcase a series of select images in the property’s Living Room and lobby through mid-February. In addition, signed and numbered prints are available in the hotel’s boutique (from $329, 10% of website proceeds benefit Protect Our Winters).
But you don’t have to visit the Nell to see the prints; expect to spy these iconic shots, presenting a unique take on Aspen, everywhere.
Photography by: Gray Malin
