Men Archives - Tony Ward Studio

Scarves by Rashid: Winter Collection 2024-25

Commissioned Work: Scarves by Rashid

Roberto Rashid is a Philadelphia based scarf designer who commissioned me recently to photograph his winter scarf collection. We first met in 1974 when we lived in the same dorm at what was then Millersville State College, now Millersville University in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.. We got to know each other during our college days because we were on the same floor in Burroughs Hall and our dorm rooms were just a few yards away from each other. Jenx (nickname) as he was affectionately called was and still is a dapper character with exquisite taste. He was always well dressed even in college and for some that didn’t know him way back when he was one of the colleges DJ’s. Hearing Roberto’s distinctive and soothing voice on the school radio station and in the hallways at our dorm was reminiscent of the same kind of sounds I heard on the Philadelphia radio stations like WDAS fm in college. I thought he was destined to become a radio personality but fate would have it he turned to fashion, influenced by his mother working in the textile industry when he was a young man.

I didn’t have further contact with Roberto after college until a little over a year ago. We bumped into each other on June 12, 2023 at a Jeff Bradshaw album release party hosted by none other than Patty Jackson from WDASfm at a venue in Germantown. After the event we started following each other on social media. Roberto had become keenly aware of the collaborative work I’ve been producing with KVaughn, creative director and legendary scarf designer from Philly. When he called to engage me about photographing his winter scarf collection he made it clear he wanted still lives of the product only, no models. That was a distinction with a difference as I started to plan the shoot and construct a set that would make the shoot with Roberto unique.

In general, people mainly associate my work these days with portraiture as it relates to fashion and erotica, not so much product photography per se, so this was a welcome departure for sure. Roberto put his trust in me, and a pleasure to work with on set. Knowing his musical background, we listened to a variety of tracks to stimulate our collaboration including Mario Lanza, Miles Davis and some R&B mixed in as well played on vinyl.

To learn more about Scarves by Rashid, link here: https://scarvesbyrashid.biz

Contact us for your next shoot! Call: 267-475-0828 or email: Tony@TonyWard.com.

In The Moment: The Art & Photography of Harvey Finkle

Exhibition announcement for Harvey Winkle at the Woodmere Museum of Art — Harvey Finkle at The Woodmere Museum.

In The Moment: The Art & Photography of Harvey Finkle

About the Exhibition

The work of the Philadelphia-born photographer and activist Harvey Finkle offers an intimate view of the hardships, sacrifices, and joys experienced by members of the diverse communities and political movements he has engaged with over the course of his career. In the Moment explores photography’s ability to interrogate social inequities, arouse empathy, and inspire political action. Consisting of photographs that Finkle has taken over the past half-decade, the show surveys the multiple and sophisticated ways in which his work forges meaningful connections with its audiences. Guest-curated by Antongiulio Sorgini, categorical groupings take us through Finkle’s journey, chronicling the stories that shape our collective consciousness.

For more information about the exhibition, link here: https://woodmereartmuseum.org/experience/exhibitions/in-the-moment-the-art-photography-of-harvey-finkle

Behind The Scene: With Kasheem “The Dream” Peterson

Behind The Scene: With Kasheem “The Dream” Peterson

This shoot brought back a lot of memories. It started with a text from a very good friend of mine that recommended that I take a call from a guy who he thought I would find interesting to photograph. His name is Kasheem Peterson. I said ok I’ll respond should he try to contact me. Sure enough he did. Within minutes after responding to my friend’s recommendation Kasheem did indeed reach out. He said that he needed some new photographs and that he was in the adult film business. That statement was what brought back the memories of decades past when I was producing content for Penthouse and other high end adult magazines. Kasheem was well up to the task and made the transition from clothed to unclothed in the blink of an eye.

He arrived ahead of schedule. Which is always a good sign. He was polite, friendly, confident and ready to rock the set with a body that was defined by years of conditioning, discipline and lots of work in the gym. Instead of making him feel comfortable, he made the crew feel at ease while we produced some fabulous photographs for an industry in which he has become a Star.

To learn more about Kasheem Peterson, link here: https://tonyward.com/feature-kasheem-the-dream-peterson/

War: Is Netanyahu Ready For Peace?

surrealistic-portrait-of-Benjamin-Netanyahu-in-a-cubist-style-composed-exclusively-of-squares-and-circles.-The-portrait-should-feature-Netanyahus — Benjamin Netanyahu. Generated by A.I. 2024

War: Is Netanyahu Ready For Peace

Benjamin Netanyahu, the longest-serving Prime Minister of Israel, has been a polarizing figure in Israeli and global politics. While some hail him as a steadfast leader who has bolstered Israel’s security and economy, others argue that his prolonged tenure has been detrimental to the country’s democratic fabric, its societal cohesion, and its international standing. The case for Netanyahu’s removal from power is compelling for several reasons, including allegations of corruption, his divisive politics, and his approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Firstly, the corruption charges against Netanyahu undermine his credibility and the integrity of the Israeli government. Netanyahu has faced multiple investigations and charges, including bribery, fraud, and breach of trust. These allegations not only tarnish his personal reputation but also cast a shadow over the political system he leads. The ongoing legal battles have distracted the government from addressing pressing issues such as the economy, healthcare, and national security. A leader embroiled in such controversies cannot effectively govern or inspire public confidence, making a change in leadership necessary to restore trust in the government.

Secondly, Netanyahu’s political strategy has often relied on divisive tactics that have exacerbated societal divisions within Israel. His tenure has seen increased polarization between different segments of Israeli society, including secular and religious Jews, Jews and Arabs, and left-wing and right-wing factions. Netanyahu’s rhetoric and policies have sometimes fueled these divisions, prioritizing short-term political gains over long-term national unity. This divisiveness weakens the social fabric and hinders collective efforts to address common challenges. A leader who fosters unity rather than division is essential for Israel to move forward cohesively.

Thirdly, Netanyahu’s handling of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has drawn significant criticism both domestically and internationally. His hardline stance and expansion of settlements in the West Bank have been major obstacles to peace negotiations. These policies not only strain Israel’s relations with its neighbors but also with its allies, particularly the United States and European Union, who have repeatedly called for a two-state solution. The lack of progress toward a peaceful resolution perpetuates instability and violence, adversely affecting both Israelis and Palestinians. A new leadership approach is needed to break the deadlock and pursue a viable path to peace.

Moreover, Netanyahu’s extended grip on power raises concerns about democratic principles and the health of Israel’s political system. Long-term incumbency can lead to the concentration of power, weakening democratic institutions and processes. Netanyahu’s efforts to weaken the judiciary, control the media, and marginalize political opponents indicate an erosion of democratic norms. For a vibrant democracy, regular leadership changes are crucial to ensure accountability, transparency, and responsiveness to the people’s needs.

In conclusion, while Benjamin Netanyahu’s tenure has had its share of achievements, the arguments for his removal from power are substantial. Corruption charges, divisive politics, a stalled peace process, and threats to democratic integrity highlight the need for new leadership. Removing Netanyahu from power would provide an opportunity to restore public trust, heal societal divisions, reinvigorate the peace process, and strengthen democratic institutions in Israel.

Behind The Scenes: KVaughn Summer Linen Collection 2024

KVaughn Summer Linen Collection 2024

I thoroughly enjoyed hosting KVaughn’s 100% linen scarf collection photo shoot for summer 2024. Veteran photographer Ted Kawalerski was the first to arrive driving in from Sleepy Hollow, New York. Since he was a little early we had breakfast and started to plan out his shooting strategy. He and I have been talking about KVaughn’s extraordinary work and for this shoot Ted wanted to participate because he knew there would be great fashion to photograph and amazing portraits to produce. Matt Sampson aka The Sneaker King and the rest of the crew followed shortly afterwards including KV’s creative assistant Milton White, photographer Brian Hunt drove his large van filled with camera and lighting equipment and his son aspiring model Larson Hunt enjoyed being photographed by all of the talented photographers on hand. Many thanks to my man AL B for his amazing video and still work as well as photographer Isiah from Blacklight Studios.