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Desert Heart: A Journey Through the Mystical Landscapes of New Mexico


Coat Reiss, shirt & pants Mmuso Maxwell, shoes Frye Boots, hat Esenshel.

New Mexico has long been a source of inspiration for many artists, and photographer Brian Sassmann is no exception. With a deep connection to the solitude and desolation of the desert, Sassmann finds peace and inner stillness in the ever-changing light and vast landscapes. This inspiration has culminated in a stunning fashion editorial produced near Abiquiu, New Mexico, capturing the essence of this mystical region.


The shoot explores the profound beauty of the desert Southwest, blending elements of the natural landscape with the rich cultural history that permeates the area. Sassmann and his team sought to convey the unique and magical energy of New Mexico, an energy that hums one octave below the silence of the desert. This sense of enchantment is evident in every frame, where the serene hot desert sun contrasts sharply with the dark, violent storms brewing on the distant horizon.


Coat Landeros, shirt Gilner Farrar, pants Landeros.

This evocative editorial was shot at two remarkable locations. The first, Rancho Centinela (@OnlocationNM), is owned by David and Andie Manzanares. This ranch has been in the Manzanares family for centuries and serves as their residence and home base for their family business, ON LOCATION NM, which provides production services and locations for film and photo productions. The historical and familial significance of Rancho Centinela adds a layer of depth and authenticity to the shoot, enhancing the connection to the land and its history.


The second location, Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch (@horseshoecanyonrescueranch), is a non-profit organization committed to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of neglected horses, donkeys, dogs, and cats. Founded by Mike and Tina Kleckner, this ranch not only offers a picturesque setting but also embodies the spirit of care and preservation that resonates deeply with the themes of the editorial.

Skirt Loewe, shirt Ralph Lauren, shoes Frye boots, hat Janessa Leone.

Sassmann describes the juxtaposition of serene desert sun and distant storm as truly enchanting, a sentiment vividly brought to life in the editorial. The photographs reveal a land that is both meditative and medicinal for the soul, a place where time seems to stand still and one can connect deeply with nature. The chosen fashion pieces echo this raw and untamed beauty, with flowing fabrics, earthy tones, and intricate patterns that seamlessly blend with the desert surroundings.

Dress Ivy Kirk, shoes Ralph Lauren boots, hat Janessa Leone.

The editorial is more than just a visual narrative; it is a tribute to the vast wildness of the desert and the hints of mysticism that lie deep in its multicultural history. Each shot encapsulates the spirit of New Mexico, a place where the profound stillness and the dynamic play of light and shadow inspire a sense of wonder and introspection.


Brian Sassmann and his team have succeeded in sharing the unique energy of New Mexico with their audience. This fashion editorial is a love letter to the desert’s solitary beauty, a testament to its ability to inspire peace, creativity, and a deep sense of inner stillness. It is a profoundly beautiful place, and through these images, the viewer is invited to experience the magical and transformative power of the desert Southwest.

Dress Lanvin.

Shirt & pants Mmuso Maxwell, shoes Frye Boots, hat Esenshel.

Coat Reiss, shirt & pants Mmuso Maxwell, shoes Frye Boots, hat Esenshel.

Dress Ivy Kirk, shoes Ralph Lauren boots, hat Janessa Leone.

Full look Josh Tafoya.

Dress Khaite, shoes Steve Madden boot, hat Esenshel, belt Tommy Hilfiger.

Dress Lanvin.

Dress Khaite, shoes Steve Madden boot, hat Esenshel, belt Tommy Hilfiger.

Dress Lanvin.

Dress Ivy Kirk, shirt Ralph Lauren.

Dress Ivy Kirk, shirt Ralph Lauren.

Skirt Loewe, shirt Ralph Lauren, shoes Frye boots.

Coat & dress Homefrocks, shoes Steve Madden, hat Jacquemus.

Coat & dress Homefrocks, shoes Steve Madden, hat Jacquemus.

Coat & dress Homefrocks, hat Jacquemus.


CREW CREDITS

Model: Alden Hoyt @aldenxxhoyt

Photographer: Brian Sassmann @bsassmann

Art Director: Jeanne Arnold @jeannead2Stylist: Stacey Cunningham @staceymcfacey

Hair & Makeup: Dawn Jacobson @dawnbeautynomadProps,

Sets and Sculptures: Beth Fowler @loamfloralfashionDigital

Tech: Richard Coughran @richcoughran


Location 1: Rancho Centinela @OnlocationNMOwned by David and Andie Manzanares. This ranch has been in the Manzanares family for centuries and serves as their residence and home base for their family business: ON LOCATION NM, providing production services & locations for film and photo productions. 


Location 2: Horseshoe Canyon Rescue Ranch @horseshoecanyonrescueranchA non-profit organization committed to the rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of neglected horses, donkeys, dogs, and cats. Founded by Mike and Tina Kleckner. CREW CREDITSModel: Alden Hoyt @aldenxxhoytPhotographer: Brian Sassmann @bsassmannArt Director: Jeanne Arnold @jeannead2Stylist: Stacey Cunningham @staceymcfaceyHair & Makeup: Dawn Jacobson @dawnbeautynomadProps, Sets and Sculptures: Beth Fowler @loamfloralfashionDigital Tech: Richard Coughran @richcoughran





1 Comment


I wanted to share my candy clicker experience because it is my newest obsession. I initially assumed it was simply another straightforward clicker game, but I soon found myself unable to put it down. Although the idea is simple—click to gather candies—there is a lot more nuance to the game as you go along.


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