Press Release: The Unyielding Spirit of Germaine Kanova
French Riviera, January 1975 — In a poignant farewell, photographer Germaine Kanova, known for her vivacious spirit, spent her last days in her cherished Antibes apartment, overlooking the sparkling Mediterranean. Accompanied by her niece Michèle and nephew Guy, she insisted on returning home from the hospital where she battled illness.
Upon her arrival, Germaine, resolute to maintain her independence, requested a cigarette and a glass of whiskey. These final moments, lasting two nights and a day, marked an end characterized by her unmistakable flair. Germaine, who passed away at the age of 72 on January 27, chose to donate her body to science, eschewing traditional ceremonies, further emphasizing her commitment to living life on her own terms.
Her legacy, however, continues through thousands of photographs spanning her illustrious career. Guy, also her godson and the executor of her will, has safeguarded these works, stored in a farm in central France for over five decades. The collection features iconic figures such as Winston Churchill, General Charles de Gaulle, Vivien Leigh, and Audrey Hepburn, creating an unrivaled tapestry of mid-20th-century cultural history.
With a deliberate choice to remain anonymous, Guy encapsulates Kanova’s ethos, stating, "to live happily, live hidden." Her story is a testament to a life lived boldly, and her photographs offer a unique glimpse into the vibrant world she captured through her lens.
As the art community reflects on her impact, Germaine Kanova’s spirit remains indelible, a beautiful reminder of resilience and creative freedom against the backdrop of a changing world.
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