A recently published book, 'Brigitte Bardot: Intimate,' unveils an extraordinary collection of photographs depicting the renowned actress Brigitte Bardot, many of which have never before been seen by the public. These compelling images, captured by her close friend and artistic collaborator Ghislain 'Jicky' Dussart, offer a profound and authentic insight into Bardot's life beyond her celebrated public image. The compilation, featuring portraits that highlight her natural elegance and unposed moments, serves as a poignant tribute to her enduring legacy and the unique bond she shared with Dussart.
Brigitte Bardot, now 90, expressed that these images, crafted by a painter acquaintance, represent the most significant homage an actress could receive during her lifetime. The collection of Dussart's newly discovered negatives, published by Assouline, reveals a more serene aspect of the woman often sensationalized as a 'sex kitten' after her breakthrough role in the 1956 film 'And God Created Woman.' Their connection began in Paris in 1953, evolving into a steadfast friendship that lasted until Dussart's passing in 1996.
Fabrice Gaignault, a French author, details in the book's foreword how Dussart acted as Bardot's confidant, protector, and even an unofficial bodyguard against the intrusions of paparazzi. In return, Bardot became his muse, initially for his Cubist artworks and subsequently for his photography. While they collaborated on numerous fashion shoots, it is Dussart’s candid, observational photographs that possess immense emotional and artistic depth. These include glimpses of Bardot sunbathing at her retreat, La Madrague, or engaging with her pets—including a duckling she adopted in Mexico—at her Saint-Tropez home.
Dussart frequently visited Bardot on film sets, immortalizing her alongside esteemed directors such as Jean-Luc Godard. Bardot confided to Gaignault that Dussart's photographs were truthful because she harbored complete trust in him, certain he would never betray her confidence. This profound trust allowed for an intimate portrayal of her life, revealing candid moments like her entertaining guests at La Madrague with bossa nova rhythms, her appearance on the set of 'Long Live Maria!' in Mexico in 1965, and tender interactions with her adopted duckling.
This remarkable photographic anthology not only celebrates Bardot’s timeless allure but also illuminates the profound personal and artistic connection between a legendary figure and her devoted photographer. It stands as a testament to moments of genuine connection and quiet beauty, offering admirers a chance to see Bardot through the eyes of someone who truly understood and respected her private world.