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Beyond the palms
Beyond the palms
Photography by Chris Colls
Interview by Dean Kissick
Amanpuri, Thailand
When Amanpuri first opened in 1988, stories of it soon journeyed across the Gulf of Thailand, over the Java and the Timor Sea. Amanpuri was the first of Aman’s resorts and the genesis of a whole new kind of experience. “I heard about this hotel that had opened in Thailand,” recalls Australian photographer Chris Colls, “and it was always a fantasy to go there, to see what it was like. It was so different to anything else that anyone had seen. A level of service, quality and originality that didn’t yet exist.”
Together with Alexandra Ágoston, his partner and muse, Colls has since photographed several Aman properties, showcasing the most breathtaking destinations on Earth as they’ve never been seen before. In this, the first part of a new visual journey across Aman’s properties in the brand’s 35th year, Chris and Alexandra present their view of paradise – a view that represents how it feels to explore, to wander, to experience the beauty of a singular place first-hand, through their eyes.
“Amanpuri was the first of its kind. The minimalist spaces, […] the beautiful architectural expanses paired with towering palm trees. That is a very rare thing to see.”
“It's about waiting and observing. Uncovering the raw beauty that lies in the everyday and making the most of it at the moment when it presents itself. It’s anything but contrived. It has to be honest, natural and emotional.”
"I always search for beauty in everything I see. I really want my photography to make people feel something, not just see something."
New York based fashion photographer, Chris Colls, developed his creative expression through his interest in photography, art, and architecture which he continues to pursue with a relentless passion. Chris’ imagery and artistic vision have contributed to internationally renowned fashion publications such as Interview Magazine & Vogue. He works with many established luxury brands, and his celebrity collaborations includes actors, musicians and models from across the globe.
Australian born model and artist, Alexandra Agoston, has graced the covers of Vogue and Harpers Bazaar. After being scouted walking down the streets of Paris, Alexandra made her runway debut for Christian Dior by John Galliano. She has since worked along side some of the industry's most respected creatives, as the muse of Jean Paul Gaultier and Comme des Garçon. Alexandra is an ambassador for Parley, an organization taking action to protect our oceans.
Chris and Alexandra split their time between New York and Paris.