The Girl Everybody Stares At, Veruschka. Life Magazine, August 18, 1967. Photo by Franco Rubartelli
One of my favorite fashion models of all time is Veruschka. You may have read my previous article on her body paint photography series called Oxydationen. It’s a topic that fascinates me, and worthy of taking a second look. (If you’re new to the site, please check it out.) You can imagine my delight when I found this Life Magazine from 1967 with Veruschka herself on the cover. What a lucky find!
Veruschka article. Life Magazine, August 18, 1967. Photo by Franco Rubartelli.
The article resembles a scrapbook rather than a traditional interview, with 9 pages of photographs interspersed with quotations. An additional 2-page article is included afterward. The 6-foot-4 amazonian beauty offers candid insights into the life of being a supermodel:
I want to fly. I want to be free. But I feel I know only half of myself. I must know more – then when I stand in front of that little box, each time – click! – it gives me an answer. That’s my whole life right then. There’s nothing else. Funny, the camera’s my friend.
Veruschka article. Life Magazine, August 18, 1967. Photo by Franco Rubartelli.
Although she was the most sought-after supermodel, Veruschka was very down to earth. She explained that between jobs she wandered around in old clothes, and lived in a furnitureless apartment in Rome.
Veruschka article. Life Magazine, August 18, 1967. Photo by Franco Rubartelli.
Yet, like a true supermodel, Veruschka knew her role well. Her private life may have been simple, but she was careful to keep up appearances.
It’s like being in a zoo. It’s like a charge of wild animals. But you can’t afford not to look good or people will say, ‘Oh, look how terrible Veruschka looks.’ You must keep playing a part.
Veruschka article. Life Magazine, August 18, 1967. Photo by Franco Rubartelli.
