Ellen Von Unwerth

Bio

Ellen von Unwerth, born in 1954 in Germany, is a celebrated photographer whose work has redefined the boundaries of fashion and portrait photography. She first captured public attention in the early 1990s with her provocative and playful Guess campaign, which propelled her into the spotlight and set the stage for an illustrious career. Since then, von Unwerth has collaborated with a dazzling array of prestigious brands, including Absolut, Chanel, Dior, and Victoria’s Secret, creating iconic campaigns that blend sensuality with a unique sense of narrative. Her artistry extends beyond commercial work; von Unwerth is a prolific to leading international publications such as Vogue (across multiple editions), Vanity Fair, ELLE, and The New York Times. Her distinctive vision has also led her to direct short films and music videos for renowned clients, including Azzedine Alaïa and Katherine Hamnett, showcasing her versatility and creative prowess. Books are a significant facet of von Unwerth's career, with her first publication, *Snaps*, released in 1994, followed by a series of celebrated works such as *Wicked* (1998), *Couples* (1999), and *Heimat* (2017). Each book reflects her innovative approach to storytelling through photography, contributing to her reputation as a leading figure in the art world. Her exhibitions have captivated audiences globally, with notable showcases including *Devotion! 30 Years of Photographing Women*, which premiered at Fotografiska Stockholm in 2018 and continued its journey to Fotografiska New York in 2020 and Fotografiska Tallin. In 2018, she also launched *VON*, a monographic magazine that celebrates her influential body of work both in print and online. Von Unwerth's contributions to photography have not gone unnoticed; she has received numerous accolades, including first prize at the International Festival of Fashion Photography in 1991, a LUCIE Award for career achievement in Fashion Photography in 2019, and an Iconic Photographer Influencer Award in 2021. Her work continues to inspire and challenge the conventions of visual art, solidifying her status as an icon in contemporary photography.