Ellen von Unwerth explores Romantic eroticism with her latest exhibition, The Provocateur.
Despite being known as a renowned photographer, Ellen von Unwerth’s career path has been all but traditional. Having once worked in the circus as an assistant to a knife-thrower, Von Unwerth calls upon her wealth of worldly knowledge to inspire and inform her work. From producing artwork and music videos for artists including Rihanna, Courtney Love and Beyoncé to shooting for Vogue, The Face and i-D, the German photographer is praised for her playful and eclectic compositions.
Now, Von Unwerth has just announced her fifth solo exhibition, titled The Provocateur, at Staley-Wise Gallery. Showcasing a series of her photographic work, the exhibition features several never-seen-before pieces from the creative practitioner. Staying true to her distinct style, the latest imagery carefully combines eroticism with fantasy and humor to create a sense of relaxation and intimacy between herself and the subject.
“I know what it’s like when you feel really uncomfortable, so I do everything in my power to make them feel at ease – and to live and laugh and move.”
Discovered in Munich at the age of 20 by a model scout, Von Unwerth deeply understands this delicate dynamic. After relocating to Paris and spending ten years modeling for various affluent names, few can forge such a deep relationship between the photographer and model.
“I know what it’s like when you feel really uncomfortable, so I do everything in my power to make them feel at ease – and to live and laugh and move,” explains Von Unwerth.
Rising to fame promptly after lensing Claudia Schiffer for a Guess fashion campaign,campaign, Von Unwerth went on to shoot for brands and companies such as Ralph Lauren, Christian Dior, L’Oréal, Thierry Mugler, Uniqlo and Guess. Similarly, the photographer has captured some of the world’s most famed cultural icons. Celebrated public figures such as Kate Moss, David Bowie, Karl Lagerfeld, Britney Spears, Rihanna and many more have all posed behind the camera for Von Unwerth. Drawing upon her wealth of experience – formed from three decades of experience – it’s evident that the photographer has truly honed her craft. Yet, the accolades do not stop there.
After winning first prize at the International Festival of Fashion Photography and being named as one of the most important people in photography according to American Photo Magazine, the photographer has cemented herself as one of the industry greats.
In The Provocateur, Von Unwerth taunts, teases and excites by portraying a world through the eyes of a humorous, lustful instigator. Fetishistic, decadent and fun, Von Unwerth’s new exhibition is not one to be missed.
Homepage image: Kate Moss and Karl Lagerfeld, Paris 1996, Legs Crossed: Christy Turlington, Linda Evangelista, Cannes, 1990. Above image Staley-Wise Gallery. The exhibition runs at the Staley-Wise Gallery from March 8th to May 11th. All images by Ellen Von Unwerth courtesy of Staley Wise Gallery © Ellen von Unwerth / Courtesy of Staley-Wise Gallery, New York.
