I had just been hired, by Madonna herself, to be her label’s first art director. It was a huge honor for me. As it turned out, she was almost finished with her next record and that was great news. She had teamed up with a new producer and the music was moving in a new direction. More ambient, more spiritual. This seemed to call for a shift in her image as well – less intent on sex and shock – more on the music itself. The images from Mario Testino were great. The cover conveys a quiet confidence and timeless beauty. Her honey hair with the glacier blue coat is super appealing. She personifies a Ray of Light. It won me my first Grammy, and I will never forget the experience.

Photography by Mario Testino.