Lorna Simpson - Rihanna for Essence Magazine, 2020
Simpson photographed Rihanna for the cover and issue



I still cannot get over the talented Lorna Simpson's shooting and editing of the January/February 2020 cover and spread of ESSENCE magazine. While we eagerly await Rihanna's new music, the wait became more bearable with the stunning visuals from this particular issue. The cover was not just any ordinary cover—it was a masterpiece created by Lorna Simpson.
This collaboration was more than just a photo shoot; it was a significant cultural moment. Rihanna and Lorna reimagined iconic images of Black women from the renowned Ebony and Jet collections. The "Earth & Sky" feature exuded a unique vibe, with Rihanna adorned in luxury pieces from Prada, Rick Owens, and her bold Savage X Fenty line. It was beyond a fashion spread; it made a powerful statement. While we eagerly anticipated her next album, we reveled in the essence of Rihanna's presence, radiating through every page of ESSENCE. - artnet