Ayami Nishimura - Tapa dura

As part of his unique series of beauty books, also including Alex Box and Caroline Saulnier, photographer Rankin and makeup artist Ayami Nishimura present a revolutionary collection of beauty portraits. Ayami Nishimura is a beauty book unlike any other. Highlighting the talents of two forward thinkers, it moves beyond mere beauty photography into the realm of high art. Ayami Nishimura has made a name for herself transforming high profile clients. She has worked with some of the best-known celebrities, and her work has appeared in the pages of illustrious fashion magazines all over the world. Here, Ayami presents her most directional work yet. Given free reign to express herself, her elaborate and whimsical creations open a window into a fantasy world. Her vivid imagination transforms models into sculptures: mythical, jewel-encrusted creations of rainbow and gold. Rankin has captured Ayami's highly conceptual work, realising her visions in a glistening dreamscape. Together Rankin and Ayami Nishimura have produced a stunning book that showcases two incredibly talented artists at their absolute best.

Photographer, director and publisher, Rankin, established his reputation in 1991, when he and his business partner, Jefferson Hack, launched the now cult fashion magazine, Dazed & Confused. He has since photographed subjects ranging from U2 to Gordon Brown, shot covers for publications worldwide and has gone on to shoot ad campaigns for some of the best known brands in the world. He is regularly commissioned as a director and has recently launched a biannual magazine. Rankin has published over 30 books, exhibited in international shows, and recently opened galleries in London and Los Angeles.