Guy Bourdin: Image Maker, is the latest exhibition to grace the walls of Somerset House. Instantly recognisable and undoubtedly surreal, the 100-snap collection combines his early and later pieces of work, featuring unseen material, which spans over 30-years of his career.

Renowned for provocative surrealism, the exhibition includes some of his most reputable works alongside a selection of paintings, working drawings, sketches and notebooks, which haven’t yet been seen in the UK.

Black and white images have been thrown into the mix of predominantly vibrant photos. Other photographic materials include; Polaroid test shots, contact sheets and double-page spreads, which exemplify photography in a pre-digital time space.

Curated by Alistair O’Neill with Shelly Verthime, the exhibition runs from 27 November 2014 – 15 March 2015 and is undoubtedly the most insightful display since the fashion photographer’s death in 1991.

Words by Sacha Musgrove