f3 – Freiraum für Fotografie presents 'Radical Beauty' in Berlin, a photo project curated by Nadine Barth, challenging beauty and aesthetic norms
In this unique photo project, more than 60 internationally renowned fashion and art photographers, together with individuals with Down syndrome, have developed portraits and photo series. Surprising and unique images were created under professional studio conditions. Among the subjects are well-known actors such as Sarah Gordy (UK) and Lily Moore (USA), but most of those portrayed lead lives away from the spotlight.
"Radical Beauty" blurs the lines between different disciplines and showcases impressive works that emphasize role-playing and visual experiments. They reflect the personalities of the individuals portrayed, whether through intimate tenderness, realistic looks, or pure joy of life – the project celebrates the diversity of human experiences and highlights the importance of an inclusive society.
"Radical Beauty" was initiated in 2018 by the British collective Culture Device – a group of Down syndrome performers who have previously performed at the Royal Opera House in London, the Tate Modern, and the Southbank Centre. Under the artistic direction of Daniel Vais, the project has developed into a global initiative that contributes to the visibility of people with cognitive disabilities and provides them with a platform.
The exhibition in Berlin was curated by Nadine Barth. "What fascinates me about this exhibition? The images exude a sense of self-evidence. They are strong and to the point, excellent fashion and portrait shots that reveal their deeper meaning only upon closer inspection. This additional layer makes them special and underscores why this exhibition is so important," says Nadine Barth to GoSee.
How did the project come to Berlin? "The project was initiated and managed by Daniel Vais (Creative Director, Culture Device, London). Katharina Mouratidi from f3–Freiraum für Fotografie organized the exhibition's arrival in Berlin. In London, a small selection of the project was shown at 180 Strand, Temple, London, but only for one evening, including dinner. This was supported by, among others, the Pictet Group, which also organizes the Prix Pictet. For Berlin, all prints were newly produced, and I selected the images from the pool of photographers, decided on the sizes for the space, and designed the installation plan," explains Nadine Barth.
The exhibition features works that explore the play with visual style and the handling of extraordinary subjects. London fashion photographer Sammy Baxter staged a dystopian scene with her model Lara Wates, in which the actress battles mysterious arms against vibrant backgrounds. Brian Griffin, known for his pop musician portraits, created striking black-and-white shots reminiscent of album covers. Erwin Olaf shows his protagonist seemingly floating weightlessly in foamy water – the result of skillful film manipulation. Zuzu Valla, a photographer who advocates for people with disabilities, portrays drag queens and drag kings with Down syndrome.
Additionally, works by Natalia Evelyn Bencicova, Paul Brain, Thomas Dodd, Scallywag Fox, Ilka & Franz, Diana Gomez, Eric Gyamfi, Gottfried Helnwein, Samuli Karala, Marc Lamey, Eva Losada, Marinka Masséus, Stephen Maycock, Cameron McNee, Jorge Monedero, David Newby, Zeynep Yeşim Özkanca, Elizaveta Porodina, Perttu Saksa, Antonia Steyn, Liron Weissman, and Zuzia Zawada are also on display.
Nadine Barth is an experienced curator who has been organizing art projects for more than 20 years. Her label barthouse culture concepts aligns text, images, and space and handles publications, exhibitions, and cultural events. She works with companies, publishers, galleries, and museums and advises artists. She is also involved in projects for young people and charitable causes.
"Radical Beauty" March 7 – May 25, 2025
Opening: Thursday, March 6, 2025, 7 PM
f3 – Freiraum für Fotografie
Waldemarstraße 17, 10179 Berlin
Wed – Sun: 1 PM – 7 PM
Admission: 6 €, reduced: 4 €
Website: www.fhochdrei.org | Instagram: @fhochdrei
An exhibition as part of EMOP Berlin – European Month of Photography
CREDITS
Photographer Ohne Titel © Erwin Olaf, Radical Beauty
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