LIFE BEYOND FIRST CLASS
ARTS & COLLECTIBLES
UNPOLISHED GLAMOUR
In capturing the charm, wit, and humanity of affluent life,
Nick Mele’s photography transcends mere depictions of wealth, offering collectors a piece of contemporary culture that is as dynamic and layered as the society it portrays.
MeetAndGreet: Echoing Slim Aarons’ style, this sun-drenched scene adds a quirky modern twist with a leashed alligator beside the woman. The elegant attire and unexpected guest create a playful commentary on privilege.
In mid-century America, Slim Aarons’ iconic lens captured a world of effortless privilege, captivating the public with polished portraits of luxury and leisure. Today, photographer Nick Mele continues this tradition but with a modern twist, bringing a contemporary, sometimes irreverent energy to the high-society world.
Like Aarons, Mele masterfully captures “attractive people doing attractive things in attractive places,” whether lounging by infinity pools, sipping champagne at exclusive galas, or posing in front of gleaming yachts and manicured lawns. However, where Aarons emphasized flawless perfection, Mele embraces the imperfect. A sunburned yachtsman, a black-tie gala interrupted by a summer storm, or a disheveled debutante—these moments of unguarded authenticity ground his images in relatable human experience, adding depth to the opulence.
LedgesHeli: A serene family game of backgammon is interrupted by the dramatic arrival of a red helicopter. This shot perfectly captures modern luxury, blending intimate family life with the extravagant indulgence of high society.
Nick Mele
A Newport native, Mele brings an insider’s view to the world of privilege, allowing him to capture candid moments without losing the allure of his subjects. His work evokes nostalgia for Aarons’ golden hues while infusing a modern, vibrant spontaneity that appeals to a new generation. Mele’s playful, often eccentric take on luxury suggests that true sophistication lies not in perfection but in the unexpected, unpolished details of life, even in the most glamorous settings.
Nick Mele is redefining luxury photography for the 21st century, creating a visual language that bridges old-world opulence with contemporary authenticity. Through his lens, we are reminded that the most unforgettable moments of privilege are often the vivid, imperfect ones.
Collectors are drawn to Mele’s work for its ability to blend nostalgia with modernity, capturing the timeless allure of privilege with a fresh, engaging perspective. His photographs, much like Aarons’, are cultural artifacts, offering glimpses of a rarified world—but with an added layer of humor, authenticity, and irreverence. Mele’s playful contrasts between elegance and absurdity invite viewers to look deeper, appreciating the layers within each composition.
These qualities make his work conceptually rich and visually striking, positioning it as a valuable addition to collections that seek to reflect the evolving narrative of contemporary high society. Mele’s images, with their unique blend of tradition and innovation, stand as a testament to the idea that true luxury isn’t found in perfection but in life’s unexpected, candid moments. This lasting appeal ensures his work will endure, making it a compelling acquisition for any serious collector.
Champagne Stand: A clever mix of childhood innocence and luxury, this image features a “Champagne” stand outside a mansion. The humor of “Mommy’s Stuff 4 Sale” adds a satirical twist to a classic game, underscoring the excesses of wealth.
Nick Mele’s whimsical take on American luxury has earned him solo exhibitions at prestigious private clubs, hotels, and retail spaces, including a recent takeover of Bergdorf Goodman’s seventh floor. His work has been featured in renowned publications. Commercially, he has collaborated with brands like Vineyard Vines, Sam Edelman, and Lilly Pulitzer, and his published works include A Newport Summer (2022) and Palm Beach Living (2023).
Mele’s photography surpasses conventional depictions of luxury. It offers collectors a deeper connection to contemporary culture, where the juxtaposition of opulence and authenticity tells a richer story. Each image serves as a layered reflection of today’s high society, preserving the vibrancy and complexity of a world that balances tradition with modern spontaneity.