Men's ad campaign Calvin Klein 2010 by photographer Steven Klein

Photographed by Steven Klein with art direction by Fabien Baron, David Agbodji’s (the model) debut campaign is sure to be remembered as one of this season’s most iconic works!

Calvin Klein have been trying to provoke fashionistas and others for a few years now. Several of their billboards have been removed from the streets after a public outcry. The company, though, has not given up yet. After Eva Mendez last year (see campaign), it's Agbodji's turn to show off a few perfect abs and see what the reaction will be. Yes, it might be scandalous, but YES, it's fresh and original. And who else but Steven Klein.

Artistically, this campaign strikes me as so interesting because of the light. The model's body looks shiny and elegant and it re-embraces Calvin Klein's idea of class, red-carpet elegance and spotlight attention. It's almost as if the oil that covers Agbodji's body is absorbed by the suits to shine out! To see more of Agbodji, click.

I have no doubts about the beauty and artistic perfection of this campaign. Is it scandalous? Maybe. Does it raise questions about race discrimination? Most likely. But that's why Steven Klein was chosen to do this: provocative as it is, its eroticism and exquisiteness makes it stand out from the rest. It makes us stop, stare, comment...PASSIVITY NOT ALLOWED.

Want some more Calvin Klein advertising. Here's the new underwear campaign!