The Junge Wilde movement, which emerged in Germany in the 1980s, is best known for its expressive style in painting. However, a less researched topic within this movement is its interaction with photography. This article looks at how the Junge Wilde artists utilised photography to create new perspectives in the 1980s art scene.
The Junge Wilde, a group of artists characterised by a spontaneous, dynamic and often provocative style, were looking for new ways to express their ideas. In this context, they used photography not only as a source of inspiration, but also as an integral part of their artistic practice. Artists such as Walter Dahn and Rainer Fetting experimented with photography to blur the boundaries between painting and photography.
A central element of the Junge Wilde’s work with photography was the emphasis on process and spontaneity. They used photographic techniques to capture snapshots of urban life, portraits of friends and scenes from everyday life. These photographs often served as models for their paintings or were integrated directly into their canvases, creating a new kind of visual language.
Photography was also a means for the Junge Wilde to address contemporary social and political issues. Through their photographs, they documented the reality of life in the 1980s – including the political tensions, social changes and cultural dynamics of the time. These images were often raw and unembellished, offering an unadulterated view of society.
The interaction with photography also played a role in challenging and questioning traditional artistic hierarchies. At a time when painting was often seen as a superior art form, the Junge Wilden demonstrated that photography can be an equally valid and expressive medium.
In conclusion, it can be said that photography played an important role in the Junge Wilde movement. It not only expanded the artists’ artistic repertoire, but also helped to enrich and diversify the art scene of the 1980s.