R. Schottelius in New York
(1953); printed (1992)
Medium
gelatin silver photograph
Measurements
23.2 × 18.5 cm (image) 25.0 × 27.5 cm (sheet)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Gift of Krystyna Campbell-Pretty AM and Family through the Australian Government’s Cultural Gifts Program, 2023
© Ellen Auerbach. VG Bild-Kunst/Copyright Agency
Gallery location
Special Exhibitions Gallery
Ground Level, NGV International
About this work
A constant innovator throughout her life, Ellen Auerbach received her first camera in 1928 as a tool to aid her studies in sculpture. The following year, she met her professional and romantic partner Grete Stern in Berlin, where they formed studio ringl+pit. After escaping fascist Germany, Auerbach eventually relocated to the United States and continued her photographic practice, settling among New York’s avant-garde. In this rooftop scene, she captures German dancer Renate Schottelius leaping into the air. In contrast with the surrounding static, imposing skyscrapers, the liberated body in joyous motion serves as a symbol for freedom.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
New York, New York, United States
Accession Number
2023.14
Department
International Photography