Revealing glimpses of the enigmatic 90s icon, Winona Ryder, through unseen photographs
Delve into the captivating world of Winona Ryder through an extraordinary photography book Unveiling unseen snapshots, this heartfelt tribute captures the enigmatic '90s icon in her most intimate and tender moments
During the 1980s and 90s, Winona Ryder stood out as a dark-haired contrast to the preppy blondes of her time. With her pale, brooding, and mysterious presence, Ryder rose to fame through her roles in alternative, macabre films such as "Beetlejuice" (1988), "Bram Stokers Dracula" (1992), "Edward Scissorhands" (1990), and "Girl, Interrupted" (1999).
Her grungy, gamine appearance made her a believable outsider on screen, captivating audiences with her unique and independent persona. Now, three decades later, Ryder's unconventional appeal remains as strong as ever, if not stronger.
Many of the photos were taken in Rich's office at fashion designer Marc Jacobs' Manhattan headquarters, a hangout spot for famous friends of the brand.
Introducing "Winona," a new photography book by Robert Rich, the former Vice President of public relations for fashion designer Marc Jacobs' iconic label. This book reveals a softer, more intimate side of the 90s icon and reflects on their 20-year-long friendship through the beautiful imagery. In the introduction, Rich affectionately refers to Winona as "my Shnookums" and describes their special bond as "I will always be her Shnookie and she will always be my Shnookums."
The Japanese photographer captures the essence of rural American community. Across numerous polaroid snaps, a familiar setting emerges: the crowded collage wall of Rich's basement office at Marc Jacobs headquarters in Manhattan. Here, Ryder is captured in a variety of outfits and poses, showcasing her character and individuality.
Cameos by celebrities such as Grace Jones and Kate Moss are remarkably genuine. They are seen kissing Ryder on the cheek, or locked in a tight embrace with arms wrapped around each other. According to Rich, the office was their informal hangout spot, and he consistently captured his friendship with Ryder.
The book also offers a glimpse of Rich's close friendship with Ryder.
Robert Rich
"I've always been a fan," he said in a video interview with CNN. "I had just watched 'Girl, Interrupted' when she came into the Marc Jacobs store. That's how we became friends. I walked up to her and started talking about it."
Over the years, Polaroids were replaced by front-facing camera phones. The images in the book capture moments across different years and mediums, from selfies taken by Ryder and Rich to paparazzi shots of the pair walking through SoHo.
"Being in the book was not my intention," Rich stated. "However, Francesca Sorrenti (renowned fashion photographer and creative director of the project) offered a fresh perspective on the pictures, saying, 'There are plenty of books on people—let's showcase the relationships.'"
Ryder is captured at Rich's office over the years.
Robert Rich
Robert Rich
Ryder and Rich would be seen out at restaurants, out shopping or at parties together.
Robert Rich
The book, published by IDEA Books, is filled t the brim with Polaroids snapped by Rich of Ryder.
Robert Rich
Since their friendship spanned decadeds, some images are taken on phone cameras, too.
Robert Rich
Rich never dated or labeled any of the Polaroids he took, and so the book is a back and forth journey through time.
Robert Rich
Unseen photographs shine a new light on 90s icon Winona Ryder
Prev
Next
There are no captions or timestamps for any of the images featured in "Winona," mainly because Rich, by his own admission, failed to make detailed notes.
"I do regret not having dated them," he sighed. "I used to take Polaroids, tuck them in my back pocket, and let them develop naturally. I didn't organize them systematically. I simply stored them in shoe boxes under my desk or hung them on the wall if they were good. It was all very impromptu."
"Winona" is published by IDEA Books.
Robert Rich
Her impact on pop culture was so profound that even Johnny Depp permanently tattooed "Winona, Forever" during their relationship, a phrase that became iconic among fans worldwide.
After taking on the role of Joyce Byers in the Netflix series "Stranger Things" in 2016, Ryder is set to reprise her role in the highly-anticipated sequel to "Beetlejuice." When asked about Ryder's comeback, Rich expressed, "I don't think she ever truly went away."
"Winona" is published by IDEA Books and available to purchase from November 30, 2023.
