Maripol: Capturing an Era in Polaroids and Style
I first met Maripol in New York City many years ago through my close friend, photographer Brian "BDUB" Williams. Instantly drawn to her magnetic creativity and undeniable influence, I was captivated by the way she blended art, fashion, and culture into a seamless narrative. Over the years, our creative paths intertwined, most notably when we collaborated on an exhibition of her iconic Polaroids in Australia and showcased the film Downtown 81, which she helped produce.
Maripol is an artist, film producer, fashion designer, and stylist whose vision has left an indelible mark on the worlds of art and fashion. As a key figure in the downtown New York scene of the 1980s, she helped shape the aesthetic of cultural icons like Madonna and Grace Jones. With her signature Polaroid camera, she documented an era, capturing the essence of Jean-Michel Basquiat, Keith Haring, Andy Warhol, and Debbie Harry. Her influence extended beyond photography—her creative direction defined the look of a generation and still resonates today.
In this conversation, Maripol reflects on her career, the downtown art scene, and the lasting impact of her work. From her collaborations with some of the most influential artists of our time to her ability to fuse art and fashion into a singular, bold vision, Maripol continues to inspire and redefine creative expression.
Grace Jones Photographed by Maripol
What was so enticing to you, as a young French girl, about America and especially New York?
All the myths about America that I grew up with enticed me. From the music legends to the grandiosity of the city and the style of people during 1976. This, coupled with clubs like Studio 54, provided an inspiration of glamour. I felt like a new pioneer again! But as a matter of fact, they called us ‘Euro trash.’
Image courtesy of Maripol. (Left, Madonna, Right, Maripol.)
How did you manage to break onto the styling scene?
It came naturally—I guess I had an original sense of fashion. People often asked me if I was a stylist and I would say ‘no,’ but then I got tired of being asked and I began to say ‘yes.’ Then the jobs started coming in! Even Jean-Paul Goude used me as a model and stylist, as well as Italian scouts for Fiorucci hiring me.
You have so many creative talents, from styling and directing to photography and fashion designing. What is one vocation you wish you could have also pursued?
I wish I had pursued being a criminal lawyer. I went to register at university and crashed into a tree on the campus with my car, so I looked at that as a bad omen and turned around and passed the entry to L’École des Beaux-Arts. Destiny! Also, I would love to paint with oils!
Which celebrity do you wish you could re-style because their current look just isn’t working for them?
I look into those gossip magazines with best- and worst-dressed celebrities. It’s funny because even the best-dressed have the worst looks and vice versa. I would not want to dress anyone that are big girls now!
You recently exhibited your Maripolarama collection of Polaroids in Melbourne. What about our fair city intrigued you?
I felt like I was propelled into 18th-century England—the architecture and the tramways. The Brighton beach boxes reminded me of the old painted cabanas. Amazing city, the museums are great, and people are very friendly!
Image courtesy of Maripol.
How did you become the art director for Fiorucci, and what was the best part of that job?
The transition was kind of natural again. I got to travel extensively and give opportunities to young designers to have their designs sold there and to have artist parties. Since the boss was in Milan, it was freedom!
First celebrity crush?
Jim Morrison when I was 17.
Secret vice?
Topless at the beach.
Favourite item of clothing?
Underwear!
Favourite city in the world?
Paris.
Polaroid or digital cameras?
Polaroid.
Most romantic thing you’ve ever done (or had done to you)?
Traveling Italy by motorcycle with my love and staying in first-class hotels.
Most memorable scene from a movie?
All About Eve—Bette Davis’ tirade about her understudy stealing her role!