Ormond Gigli’s Iconic “Girls in the Windows”

In 1960, renowned photojournalist Ormond Gigli created a striking photograph that encapsulates the essence of a rapidly evolving New York City. Titled “Girls in the Windows,” this image captures 43 women posing in the windows of a row of brownstones slated for demolition. The photograph juxtaposes the beauty of human expression with the transience of urban architecture, transforming a moment of destruction into an eternal work of art. Gigli’s masterpiece reflects his creative vision and the cultural vibrancy of mid-century Manhattan.

The inspiration for the photograph came when Gigli noticed the row of elegant brownstones directly across from his East 58th Street studio. Knowing these buildings would soon be demolished to make way for modern development, he sought to immortalize their charm. Gigli envisioned a tribute to the architectural style of the era and the people who inhabited the city. By placing women in colorful dresses in the windows of the empty brownstones, he created a scene that highlighted the contrast between beauty and decay.

Gigli approached the demolition supervisor to seek permission for his ambitious idea. Surprisingly, the supervisor agreed but made a single condition: his wife had to be included in the photograph. With limited time and resources, Gigli quickly set to work, assembling a group of 43 women that included models, socialites, friends, and even his wife, Sue Ellen. Each participant brought their most vibrant attire, transforming the brownstones into a lively palette of colors.

The logistics of the shoot were challenging. The windows of the condemned buildings were in varying states of disrepair, and the shoot had to be completed during the workers’ lunch break to ensure safety. Gigli directed the composition from the fire escape of his studio, carefully balancing the positioning of each woman. To add a touch of class, a vintage Rolls-Royce was parked at the curb, further enhancing the image’s sophistication.

The photograph captures the dichotomy of a city in flux. On one hand, the poised elegance of the women and the architectural charm of the brownstones evoke nostalgia for a fading era. On the other hand, the image subtly acknowledges the inevitability of change and the march of progress. This duality gives the photograph its enduring power, resonating with viewers across generations.

Initially, Gigli did not intend for the photograph to become a commercial success. For decades, the image remained a personal project, cherished within his private collection. It was not until 1994, when his wife presented the photograph to a gallery, that “Girls in the Windows” gained the recognition it deserved. Since then, the image has been exhibited in galleries worldwide and has become a highly sought-after piece of photographic art, with over 160 signed prints sold.

Critics and art enthusiasts have praised the photograph for its timeless quality and innovative composition. The vibrant dresses of the women, combined with the architectural details of the brownstones, create a visual harmony that is both captivating and thought-provoking. It is a testament to Gigli’s ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, finding beauty in unexpected places.

Today, “Girls in the Windows” stands as a symbol of New York City’s ever-changing landscape and the enduring spirit of its people. It serves as a reminder that even in moments of upheaval and transformation, there is room for creativity and elegance. Ormond Gigli’s masterpiece continues to inspire, proving that art has the power to preserve history and evoke emotion in ways words often cannot.

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