Fräulein

In books, there are publications you love instantly but may bore you after a while. And there are books seem to be not that appealing, but grow on you. Like Fräulein by Ellen von Unwerth. At first it itches. I mean, the photographers’ name, Ellen von Unwerth - like Dita Von Teese and Kat von D, they don't represent motherly, caring feelings. Also many of the pictures have a Burlesque or fetish atmosphere with nothing but ‘I don’t give a shit’ women who seem to tell you: the world is an outrageous party for confident, extravagant people so basically, you are not invited. But as I set aside my prejudices and insecurities, I saw an intriguing collection of photos - outrageous, but also sensual, iconic and fun with beautiful references to classic periods. It actually tickled me to read a little about Ellen von Unwerth and also her story fascinated me. In a nutshell: growing up in foster homes, not taking a secure upbringing for granted, has given her an authentic sense of connection to the theme of people, especially women, who live outside society. So here we are, slowly starting to appreciate Ellen von Unwerth’s Fräulein, despite the name and the title.