Controversy Bubbles Up Over Vogue Italia's BP Oil Spill-Inspired Spread

No matter how you feel about it, Vogue Italia has done a fine job drumming up press for their latest issue. A spread titled “Water & Oil,” photographed by Mr. Controversy himself, Steven Meisel, features model Kristen McMenamy, doused in oil, draped over equally oily rocks and jet black beaches, all while wearing high-end fashion, of course. It’s clearly a nod to the disastrous spill in the Gulf, but it’s led to lots of press asking that age old question, “Is it offensive or is it art?” And with that question, there’s rarely if any consensus.