Vanessa Beecroft, C-print, 2001
The Italian artist Vanessa Beecroft moved to the United States in 1996. She is known for her unique installations in which the performance of the female body serves as the central theme. Her artistic photography places the naked body at the absolute centre of attention. Has the woman been deprived of her freedom, or is she regarded as a sex object and the prey of idealism? Or is she the victim of voyeurism?
This photograph captures ‘Performance ‘VB45’’, which marked the opening of the Kunsthalle in Vienna. The leather boots, designed by Helmut Lang, emphasise the militaristic character of the whole, which also features a platoon-style arrangement of her models. On the other hand, each woman is styled for her authentic presentation as if she were taking part in a fashion show. Tired of this compulsive image of womanhood, more than half of them sit down during the performance. Their gaze is detached and expectant.
– For more works by this artist, contact the gallery. –