In the expansive world of contemporary art, Cindy Sherman stands as a luminous figure, a true visionary whose influence transcends generations. As a pioneering artist, Sherman has consistently pushed the boundaries of photography, reshaping our understanding of identity and image while captivating audiences across the globe. Born in 1954 in the quiet suburb of Glen Ridge, her remarkable journey from these humble beginnings to the forefront of the international art scene is a testament to her extraordinary talent, relentless creativity, and bold vision. Embark on a comprehensive voyage through her groundbreaking work and life, where each piece invites deeper reflection and leaves an indelible mark on the viewer.
Introduction
Cindy Sherman’s work is a masterclass in introspection and societal critique. Through her lens, every photograph tells a story, often with Sherman herself as the protagonist. But these aren’t mere self-portraits; they are narratives, each frame offering a window into meticulously crafted worlds where she assumes myriad roles. From the subject to the photographer, from the muse to the critic, Sherman’s versatility knows no bounds.
It becomes evident that Sherman’s art is more than just imagery. It’s a blend of storytelling, introspection, and a deep understanding of societal norms. Each photograph challenges the viewer, urging them to question notions of identity, societal constructs, and the very nature of art itself.
Global Recognition
Sherman’s prowess hasn’t gone unnoticed. As highlighted by the specialized website artfacts, she stands tall as the second most important living artist globally (after Gerhard Richter). Such recognition isn’t merely about talent; it’s about impact. And Sherman’s impact on the art world is undeniable. Her accolades, ranging from the prestigious Hasselblad Prize to the Haftmann Prize, are a testament to her enduring influence and contribution to art.
As we embark on this exploration of Cindy Sherman’s life and work, we invite readers to not just observe but to engage, to question, and to immerse themselves in the world of an artist who has forever changed the landscape of contemporary photography.
Early Life and Influences
Childhood and Education
Cindy Sherman’s roots trace back to Glen Ridge, New Jersey, where she was born in 1954. However, it was in the neighboring town of Huntington, Long Island, where she spent her formative years. Growing up in the culturally vibrant era of the 1960s, Sherman was exposed to a myriad of influences that would later shape her artistic perspectives. The societal shifts, the rise of pop culture, and the evolving narratives of the American dream all played a role in molding her young mind.
Sherman’s passion for art was evident early on, leading her to pursue formal education at the State University College in Buffalo. Initially captivated by the world of painting, she soon found herself at a crossroads. She used to paint self-portraits and realistic copies of photographs form magazines1. The late 20th century saw many artists transitioning from traditional art forms, seeking mediums that offered more expansive narratives. For Sherman, this transition led her to the world of photography, a medium she felt resonated more with her storytelling aspirations.
Shift to Photography
The bustling art scene of Buffalo provided Sherman with the perfect canvas to experiment and hone her skills. It was here that she began to view photography not just as a means of capturing moments, but as a tool for conceptual art. However, changing from painting to photography was not an easy task for Sherman. She could not pass the introductory photography course, as she had problems with technological aspects involved in creating a photograph. Indeed, it was one of her photography teacher who introduced her to conceptual art2.
In 1976, with a degree in hand and a vision in mind, Sherman made the pivotal move to Manhattan. The city, with its eclectic mix of cultures, art forms, and narratives, was the ideal backdrop for her evolving style. Immersing herself in the vibrant art scene of New York in the 1970s, Sherman began her iconic series of photographs titled “Untitled Film Stills.” This series, which we’ll delve deeper into in subsequent sections, was a game-changer, not just for Sherman but for the world of conceptual photography.
Looking back, Cindy Sherman’s early life and influences are a testament to her journey of self-discovery and artistic evolution. From the streets of Huntington to the galleries of Manhattan, her background is a rich tapestry of experiences and decisions that have shaped her into the iconic artist she is today.
Defining the 1970s: The Rise of Sherman
“Untitled Film Stills” Series
The late 1970s marked a transformative period for Cindy Sherman. It was during these years that she embarked on what would become one of her most iconic series: the “Untitled Film Stills.” Comprising 69 black-and-white photographs, this series saw Sherman don various roles, from the femme fatale to the girl-next-door, capturing the essence of stereotypical female characters in 1950s and 60s Hollywood, film noir, and European art-house films.
But these weren’t mere reenactments. Each photograph, while reminiscent of a movie still, was Sherman’s commentary on the portrayal of women in media. They challenged the viewer, urging them to confront societal stereotypes and question the roles often assigned to women in cinema. Sherman’s series was a groundbreaking exploration of self-representation, where the artist became both the observer and the observed.
New York’s Art Scene
Sherman’s move to Manhattan in 1976 couldn’t have been more timely. The city was a melting pot of artistic expressions, with the 1970s being a particularly vibrant decade for contemporary art. New York provided Sherman with the perfect backdrop to experiment, collaborate, and showcase her work. The city’s art scene, characterized by its avant-garde exhibitions and a community of like-minded artists, played a pivotal role in Sherman’s rise.
It wasn’t long before her “Untitled Film Stills” began to garner attention. The series resonated with art enthusiasts, critics, and fellow artists alike. Its unique blend of critique, humor, and nostalgia struck a chord, making Sherman a prominent figure in New York’s art circles.
The 1970s were more than just a decade for Cindy Sherman; they were the years that defined her as an artist. Through her innovative approach to photography and her keen understanding of societal norms, Sherman carved a niche for herself, challenging conventions and redefining contemporary art. As the decade drew to a close, one thing was clear: Cindy Sherman had arrived, and the world of art would never be the same again.
Sherman’s Unique Artistic Approach
Self as the Subject
Cindy Sherman’s work is a masterclass in self-representation. Unlike traditional self-portraits that aim to capture the artist’s likeness, Sherman’s photographs delve deeper, exploring the multifaceted nature of identity. Each image is a character study, with Sherman herself donning various roles, from historical figures to fictional personas. These aren’t mere disguises; they’re explorations of self, society, and the myriad roles women play.
She is the model for her photographs: it can be said that in her pictures she adopts the role of director, actress, model and photographer3. Sherman’s self-portraits can be seen as a critique of societal norms. They challenge the viewer to confront their biases, question stereotypes, and reflect on the constructed nature of identity. Each photograph is a narrative, a story that blurs the lines between reality and fiction, urging the viewer to question: Who is the real Cindy Sherman?
Challenging Societal Norms
Sherman’s work is as much about society as it is about her. Through her lens, she critiques societal views on gender, beauty, and aging. Her photographs often depict exaggerated versions of femininity, from the glamorous to the grotesque, highlighting the unrealistic standards and stereotypes women often face.
Sherman’s photographs, while rooted in contemporary issues, have a timeless quality. They resonate with viewers across generations, highlighting universal themes of identity, representation, and societal expectations. Altogether with feminist concerns, Sherman’s work was interpreted as exploring the surveillance society4
Furthermore, Sherman’s decision to not title her works adds another layer of intrigue. By leaving them untitled, she invites viewers to draw their own interpretations, to engage with the art on a personal level, and to derive meaning based on their experiences and perspectives.
Cindy Sherman’s artistic approach is a testament to her genius. Through her photographs, she offers a mirror to society, reflecting its beauty, flaws, and complexities. Her work is a dialogue, a conversation between the artist and the viewer, challenging conventions and urging introspection. In a world saturated with images, Sherman’s photographs stand out, not just for their visual appeal, but for the profound messages they convey.
Diving into Notable Works
Famous Series Explored
Throughout her illustrious career, Cindy Sherman has produced a plethora of series, each distinct in its theme and execution. Among these, certain series stand out, not just for their artistic brilliance but also for the narratives they weave.
“Rear Screen Projections” (1980)
Venturing into color photography, this series saw Sherman juxtaposing herself against projected backdrops, reminiscent of the Hollywood golden era. These images, while evoking a sense of nostalgia, also delve into the artificiality of cinema, highlighting the constructed nature of filmic reality.
“Centerfolds/Horizontals” (1981)
Commissioned by the “Artforum” magazine (though never published), this series features images of Sherman in various states of vulnerability and introspection. The horizontal format, reminiscent of centerfold spreads, challenges the viewer’s gaze, critiquing the objectification of women in media.
“History Portraits/Old Masters” (1988-1990)
In this series, Sherman recreates iconic portraits from art history, infusing them with her unique touch. Donning elaborate costumes and prosthetics, she transforms into historical figures, from Renaissance royalty to Caravaggio’s subjects. Through these images, Sherman critiques the canon of Western art, highlighting its gender biases and challenging traditional representations of women.
Themes and Messages
Sherman’s photographs often play with the idea of the ‘simulacrum’ – a copy without an original. Her characters, while reminiscent of familiar archetypes, lack a definitive origin, challenging the viewer to question the nature of representation. Cindy Sherman as an artist is widely associated to postmodernism, or even “critic posmodernism”5. As Andy Grundberg states “Postmodernist art accepts the world as an endless hall of mirrors, a place where images constitute what we are, as in Cindy Sherman’s world, and where images constitute all of what we know…”6. This is very much in line with the notion of postmodernism as imagined by Jean Baudrillard.
Furthermore, her works often touch upon themes of identity, transformation, and the passage of time. For instance, her “Clowns” series (2003-2004) features grotesque, exaggerated figures, which, beneath their garish makeup, reveal traces of vulnerability and melancholy. These images, while unsettling, delve into the human psyche, exploring the masks we wear and the emotions they conceal. Sherman is the object and the subject of her work, which is very important, according to Rosalind Krauss, as Sherman reveals the role of the artist as being also a stereotype7. According to Michael Fried, the neutral expression of Sherman’s face in this series avoid the the photographs to become “theatrical”8.
Cindy Sherman’s notable works are a testament to her versatility and depth as an artist. Each series, while distinct in its theme, carries the unmistakable imprint of Sherman’s genius. Through her photographs, she invites viewers on a journey, from the glamorous world of Hollywood to the hallowed halls of art history, challenging, critiquing, and captivating every step of the way.
Evolution Over the Decades
Transition in the 1980s
The 1980s marked a significant shift in Cindy Sherman’s artistic trajectory. While her earlier works in the 1970s predominantly utilized black-and-white photography, the 1980s saw Sherman embracing color film with open arms. This transition wasn’t merely technical; it was deeply thematic. Her subjects became more elaborate, the settings more intricate, and the narratives more layered.
One of the standout series from this period is the “Fairy Tales” series (1985). Here, Sherman delves into the dark and often macabre world of folklore and fairy tales. The images, while fantastical, carry an underlying sense of unease. They challenge the sanitized versions of tales we’ve grown up with, revealing the grim undertones that often lurk beneath.
Contemporary Works
As Sherman’s career progressed into the 1990s and 2000s, her work began reflecting more contemporary issues. The “Sex Pictures” series (1992) is a prime example. Here, Sherman uses mannequins and prosthetics to create unsettling images that touch upon themes of sexuality, objectification, and the human body. The series, while controversial, is a powerful commentary on society’s fetishization of the female form.
Another notable series from this period is the “Society Portraits” (2008). In this series, Sherman portrays aging high-society women, capturing their elegance, grace, and the inevitable passage of time. The images, while beautiful, carry a melancholic undertone, touching upon themes of aging, beauty standards, and the societal pressures women face.
It’s evident that Sherman’s evolution as an artist mirrors the broader shifts in society. Her works, while deeply personal, are also reflective of the changing cultural, social, and political landscapes.
Cindy Sherman’s journey over the decades is a testament to her adaptability and keen observational skills. From the black-and-white stills of the 1970s to the vivid, thought-provoking images of the 2000s, her work has continually evolved, yet remained rooted in its core themes of identity, representation, and societal critique. As we look back at her illustrious career, it’s evident that Cindy Sherman is not just a photographer; she’s a storyteller, a critic, and above all, an artist who continually pushes the boundaries of her medium.
Summary of Cindy Sherman’s Most Influential Artworks
This table provides a comprehensive overview of her most significant works, highlighting their fundamental characteristics, the artists who influenced Sherman, the artists she influenced, and the prestigious institutions where these works are held.
| Title of the Work | Creation Dates | Fundamental Characteristics | Influential Artists | Influenced Artists | Main Institutions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Untitled Film Stills | 1977-1980 | – Black-and-white photographs – References to female archetypes in popular culture – Depicts various stereotypical roles of women | – Diane Arbus – Alfred Hitchcock | – Sherrie Levine – Barbara Kruger | MoMA (New York), Centre Pompidou (Paris) |
| Rear Screen Projections | 1980 | – Color photographs – Uses rear screen projection technique – Mimics film stills and cinematic techniques – Exploration of identity and performance | – Alfred Hitchcock – Hollywood cinema | – Laurie Simmons – Cindy Sherman herself revisited this technique | MoMA (New York), Whitney Museum of American Art (New York) |
| Centerfolds | 1981 | – Color photographs – Magazine-like format – Exploration of female stereotypes – Intimate and provocative poses | – Diane Arbus – Richard Avedon | – Sarah Lucas – Tracey Emin | MoMA (New York), Tate Modern (London) |
| History Portraits | 1988-1990 | – Color photographs – References to art history and famous portraits – Use of elaborate costumes and makeup | – Caravaggio – Rembrandt | – Yasumasa Morimura – Kehinde Wiley | MoMA (New York), National Gallery of Art (Washington D.C.) |
| Disasters | 1985-1989 | – Color photographs – Macabre and grotesque scenes – Depictions of bodily decay and destruction | – Francis Bacon – Goya | – Gregory Crewdson – Paul McCarthy | MoMA (New York), The Broad (Los Angeles) |
| Sex Pictures | 1992 | – Color photographs – Use of mannequins and prosthetics – Exploration of sexuality and identity<br>- Challenging traditional norms | – Hans Bellmer – Man Ray | – Matthew Barney – Vanessa Beecroft | MoMA (New York), Guggenheim (New York) |
| Fairy Tales | 1985 | – Color photographs – Dark, surreal, and grotesque imagery – Themes of fantasy and horror – Use of costumes and props to create mythical scenes | – Brothers Grimm – Surrealist artists | – Kiki Smith – Cindy Sherman herself explored similar themes later | MoMA (New York), San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (San Francisco) |
Sherman and the World of Fashion
Association with Vuitton
Cindy Sherman’s influence isn’t confined to the galleries and museums; it extends to the glamorous world of fashion. One of her most notable associations has been with the illustrious Vuitton family. In collaboration with the luxury brand Louis Vuitton, Sherman created a series of images for their 2014 Spring/Summer collection. But, true to her style, these weren’t mere advertisements. Sherman infused each image with her unique touch, transforming them into narratives that explored themes of identity, luxury, and the very nature of fashion itself.
This collaboration was more than just a business endeavor; it was a meeting of minds. Louis Vuitton, known for its rich history and commitment to artistry, found a perfect partner in Sherman, an artist who continually challenges conventions. The resulting images, which featured Sherman in various avatars against the backdrop of New York City, were a blend of fashion, art, and storytelling, resonating with audiences worldwide.
Influence in Fashion
Sherman’s association with fashion isn’t limited to brand collaborations. Her influence can be seen in the works of numerous designers and photographers. Her ability to transform, to don various personas, and to challenge traditional notions of beauty has made her a muse for many in the fashion industry.
Sherman’s work has redefined fashion photography. Her images, while rooted in art, have a distinct fashion sensibility. They challenge the viewer, much like avant-garde fashion, urging them to question, interpret, and engage.
Furthermore, Sherman’s exploration of themes like aging, beauty standards, and societal expectations has had a profound impact on the fashion world. Designers and photographers, inspired by her work, have begun to challenge traditional norms, embracing diversity, and promoting a more inclusive definition of beauty.
Cindy Sherman’s foray into the world of fashion is a testament to her versatility and the universal appeal of her work. From high-profile collaborations to influencing global fashion narratives, her impact is undeniable. As the lines between art and fashion continue to blur, Sherman’s work stands as a beacon, illuminating the path for future collaborations and challenging the very essence of what fashion represents.
However, some scholars states that the photographs constructed by Sherman opposes fashion photography, and the artist tries hard to efface her own identity in her pictures9.
Trivia: Delving Deeper into Sherman’s World
Behind the Scenes
- Makeup Mastery: One of the most captivating aspects of Cindy Sherman’s work is her transformative ability. But does she do her own makeup? The answer is a resounding yes. Sherman’s metamorphosis in each photograph is a result of her meticulous attention to detail, from costume to makeup. This hands-on approach allows her to fully immerse herself in each character, ensuring authenticity and depth in every frame.
- The Mystery of Untitled Works: Ever wondered why most of Sherman’s works are untitled? This deliberate choice stems from her desire to keep the narratives open-ended. By not assigning a specific title, Sherman invites viewers to engage with the work, drawing their own interpretations and meanings. It’s a testament to her belief in the subjective nature of art and the unique perspectives each viewer brings.
- Dressing Up – More Than Just Art: Sherman’s penchant for dressing up isn’t limited to her photographs. It’s an intrinsic part of who she is. For Sherman, costumes and characters offer a medium to explore and critique societal roles, gender norms, and the very nature of identity. Whether she’s portraying a 1950s Hollywood starlet or a Renaissance noblewoman, each character is a reflection of society, both past and present.
Fun Facts
- Film Foray: While renowned for her photography, Sherman has also dabbled in film. In 1997, she directed the dark comedy “Office Killer,” showcasing her versatility and keen observational skills in a new medium.
- Museum Marvel: Sherman’s work is not only critically acclaimed but also commercially successful. In 2011, one of her photographs from the “Centerfolds” series sold for a staggering $3.89 million, setting a record for the highest price paid for a photograph at that time.
- Fashion Forward: Beyond her collaboration with Louis Vuitton, Sherman has also worked with other fashion giants. In 2016, she collaborated with high-fashion brand Comme des Garçons, further cementing her status as a fashion icon.
Cindy Sherman, while celebrated for her art, remains an enigma. These behind-the-scenes insights and fun facts offer a glimpse into her world, revealing the intricacies and nuances that make her work so captivating. From her hands-on approach to her forays outside of photography, Sherman’s journey is filled with intriguing tidbits that will fascinate both art enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
Sherman Today: Recent Endeavors
Latest Exhibitions
Cindy Sherman’s artistic journey is far from over. Even in recent years, she has continued to captivate audiences with her thought-provoking exhibitions. One of the most notable showcases was her 2019 exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery in London. This retrospective, spanning her illustrious 40-year career, was a testament to her enduring influence and the timeless appeal of her work. Featuring over 150 works, the exhibition provided a comprehensive overview of Sherman’s oeuvre, from her iconic “Untitled Film Stills” to her more recent series.
Another standout exhibition was her 2020 showcase at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris. This exhibition, while focusing on her more recent works, also delved into her long-standing association with the world of fashion, highlighting her collaborations and the profound impact of her work on the fashion industry.
Current Projects
While Cindy Sherman is best known for her photography, she has never been one to confine herself to a single medium. Recent years have seen her exploring new avenues, from digital art to augmented reality. Her Instagram account, for instance, offers a glimpse into her experiments with digital filters and apps, showcasing her adaptability and her keen sense of evolving digital trends.
Furthermore, Sherman has also been vocal about contemporary issues, using her platform to advocate for causes close to her heart. From championing women’s rights to raising awareness about environmental issues, she continues to use her art as a medium for change.
Rumors in the art circles also hint at a potential new series in the works, one that delves into the complexities of the digital age. While details remain under wraps, the art world is abuzz with anticipation, eager to see how Sherman interprets and critiques our increasingly digital lives.
Cindy Sherman’s legacy is firmly cemented in the annals of art history. Yet, she continues to evolve, adapt, and inspire. Her recent endeavors showcase her relentless passion and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of art. As we look to the future, one thing is clear: Cindy Sherman remains a force to be reckoned with, and her journey is far from over.
ANTI FASHION
In the heart of Hamburg-Harburg, the Falckenberg Collection at Deichtorhallen Hamburg unveils an evocative exhibition titled “ANTI FASHION”, dedicated to the illustrious Cindy Sherman. This exhibition, spanning five decades of Sherman’s work, delves deep into her intricate relationship with the fashion realm. Showcasing around 50 masterpieces, it reveals her collaborations with iconic fashion houses like Chanel and editorial giants such as Vogue. However, Sherman’s portrayal stands distinct from conventional fashion imagery. Instead of echoing the glamour and allure typically associated with fashion, her photographs challenge and critique the industry’s ideals, presenting characters that defy the conventional notions of flawlessness. The exhibition, enriched with loans from both national and international sources and exclusive material from Sherman’s New York archive, is a pioneering endeavor, being the first to spotlight fashion’s role in Sherman’s extensive body of work. This immersive experience not only offers a visual treat but also prompts introspection into the realms of identity, gender, and societal norms as perceived through the lens of fashion.
Cindy Sherman at the Cycladic Museum: Early Works
The exhibition Cindy Sherman at Cycladic: Early Works presents over 100 of Sherman’s groundbreaking early pieces, offering a deep dive into her influential exploration of how women are portrayed in popular culture. Featured series include Untitled Film Stills (1977-1980), Rear Screen Projections (1980), Centerfolds (1981), and Color Studies (1981-1982).
Sherman, who emerged as a pioneering artist in the late 1970s, uniquely blends photography with performance. In her studio, she assumed the roles of makeup artist, hairdresser, stylist, and director, transforming herself into various characters. Drawing from female stereotypes in television, film, and advertising—such as the femme-fatale, career woman, and housewife—her work critiques and deconstructs traditional gender roles and notions of identity.
The exhibition also includes a screening of a twenty-minute segment from the 2009 Art21 film Transformation, which delves into Sherman’s creative process and offers insight into some of her untitled works, spanning more than four decades.
Displayed alongside the museum’s celebrated collection of Cycladic art—one of the most complete private collections worldwide—Sherman’s works create a visual dialogue with the iconic marble female figurines of the 3rd millennium BC. These figurines, believed by scholars to represent a mother-goddess of fertility and renewal, have been a source of inspiration for many artists. Over time, as societal perceptions of women shifted, so too did the representation of their roles—contested, redefined, yet always central. This conversation between Sherman’s modern critique of female representation and the ancient depictions of women offers a poignant reflection on the evolving roles of women from antiquity to the present.
Legacy and Lasting Impact
Pioneering a New Art Form
Cindy Sherman’s influence on the art world is profound and far-reaching. She pioneered a unique form of self-portraiture, where the artist becomes both the subject and the creator. But unlike traditional self-portraits, Sherman’s works are narratives, delving deep into themes of identity, representation, and societal norms. Sherman’s art is a blend of performance, photography, and social critique, creating a genre that defies easy categorization.
Influencing a New Generation
Sherman’s impact isn’t limited to her contemporaries. She has inspired a new generation of artists, photographers, and creatives who see in her work a blueprint for challenging conventions and pushing boundaries. Artists like Gillian Wearing and Sam Taylor-Johnson have cited Sherman as a significant influence, drawing from her themes of identity and representation in their works.
Furthermore, her approach to art, where the personal becomes universal, has paved the way for artists to explore their narratives, using their experiences as a lens to comment on broader societal issues. In a world increasingly dominated by visuals, Sherman’s emphasis on storytelling and critique is more relevant than ever.
Recognition and Accolades
Over the years, Cindy Sherman has received numerous accolades, cementing her status as one of the foremost artists of her generation. From prestigious awards like the Hasselblad Prize to retrospectives in renowned institutions like the Museum of Modern Art, her contributions to the art world have been widely recognized and celebrated.
However, perhaps the most significant testament to her legacy is the continued relevance of her work. Decades after they were created, Sherman’s photographs continue to resonate, their themes and narratives striking a chord with audiences worldwide.
Cindy Sherman’s legacy is a testament to her vision, talent, and relentless pursuit of innovation. Through her photographs, she has redefined art, challenged societal norms, and inspired countless artists. As we reflect on her contributions, one thing is clear: Cindy Sherman’s impact on the art world is enduring, and her legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come.
Curated videos about Cindy Sherman
In this video Jörg Colberg presents the book of Cindy Sherman published by Flammarion in 2006 . Find more fascinating photobooks presentations in Colberg’s Vimeo channel https://www.youtube.com/user/jmcolberg/videos and books reviews in his website http://cphmag.com.
The following video, found in ArtsHub Vimeo channel https://www.youtube.com/user/artsHubAustralia, shows a great and short presentation of Cindy Sherman. Find more art related content in ArtsHub website http://www.artshub.com.au/
In the follwing video, produced by MoMa, Cindy Sherman is presented by the Chief curator of the Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston, Eva Respini.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ED6QhmRchZI
https://wayback.archive-it.org/4387/20140612185410/http://www.moma.org/interactives/exhibitions/2012/cindysherman/
Curated Links about Cindy Sherman
https://scholarship.claremont.edu/scripps_theses/840/
Glenn D. Lowry, My Favourite Cindy Sherman, MoMA.
Curated Papers about Cindy Sherman
Holtzman Dinah, Portrait of the postmodern artist as hysteric, 2014 (Thesis).
Simmons, William J., Portfolio: Cindy Sherman, New Work, King Kong Magazine, 2016.
Gerrie Vanessa, Exhibition Review: Cindy Sherman, City Gallery Wellington, 2016.
Russel Charles, Cindy Serman, the Neo-Gothic, and Postmodernism.
Interviews with Cindy Sherman
Gagosian Quarterly, Spring 2020.
Latest Exhibitions of Cindy Sherman (solo and collective)
Non Finito
| Date | 17 Jun 2023 – 03 Sep 2023 |
| Year | 2023 |
| Organizer | Centro de Cultura Contemporânea de Castelo Branco (CCCCB) |
| Venue | Centro de Cultura Contemporânea de Castelo Branco (CCCCB) Campo Mártires da Pátria, S/N Castelo Branco Portugal |
Collection1 80/90/00/10
| Date | 24 Jun 2023 – 10 Sep 2023 |
| Year | 2023 |
| Organizer | National Museum of Art Osaka (NMAO) |
| Venue | National Museum of Art Osaka (NMAO) 4-2-55 Nakanoshima, kita-ku Osaka Japan |
Deep Deep Down
| Date | 30 Jun 2023 – 18 Feb 2024 |
| Year | 2023 |
| Curators | Tirdad Zolghadr |
| Organizer | MUDAM – Musée d’Art Moderne Grand-Duc Jean |
| Venue | MUDAM – Musée d’Art Moderne Grand-Duc Jean 3, Park Dräi Eechelen Luxembourg Luxembourg |
FrawenKörper
| Date | 24 Oct 2021 – 20 Feb 2022 |
| Year | 2021 |
| Organizer | Kurpfälzisches Museum der Stadt Heidelberg |
| Venue | Kurpfälzisches Museum der Stadt Heidelberg Hauptstraße 97 Heidelberg Germany |
ICH – Zwischen Abbild und Neuerfindung / ME – Between image and reinvention
| Date | 16 Oct 2021 – 16 Jan 2022 |
| Year | 2021 |
| Organizer | Galerie Stihl Waiblingen |
| Venue | Häckermühle Weingärtner Vorstadt 16 Waiblingen Germany |
Les Flammes. L’âge de la céramique
| Date | 15 Oct 2021 – 06 Feb 2022 |
| Year | 2021 |
| Curators | Anne Dressen |
| Organizer | Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris (MAM/ARC) |
| Venue | Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris (MAM/ARC) 11 avenue du Président Wilson Paris France |
References
- . Amada Cruz, on Cindy Sherman Retrospective, p.1
- Amada Cruz, on Cindy Sherman Rtrospective, p.1
- André Rouillé, La photographie, Éditions Gallimard, 2005, p.490.
- Ana Peraica, Culture of the selfie: self-representation in contemporary visual culture, 2017, p.26
- Dominique Baqué, La photographie plasticienne, Éditions du Regard, 2004, p.97.
- Andy Grundberg, Crisis of the Real: Writings on Photography, 2010, p.17.
- Rosalind Krauss, Photography and the Simulacrum, 1983.
- Michael Fried, Why Photography Matters as Art as Never Before, Yale University Press, 2008, p.7.
- Van Gelder Hilde, Westgeest Helen, Photography Theory in Historical Perspective, 2011, p.188.
Oh man, diving into Cindy Sherman’s world through that article was like unearthing a treasure trove I didn’t know I needed. But you know what? I feel like they missed chatting about something pretty crucial – how Sherman uses her art to take a deep dive into the whole aging process. It’s like, in the art world, everyone’s obsessed with youth and beauty, but Sherman? She turns that on its head and gets us all thinking about the beauty in growing older, which honestly, is kinda revolutionary. Think about it; in a society that’s all about slapping filters on everything and fearing the mere thought of a wrinkle, Sherman’s work is like a breath of fresh air. She doesn’t just embrace aging; she showcases it, warts and all, through her transformative self-portraits. It’s like she’s telling us, “Hey, it’s okay to age. It’s a part of life.” And in doing so, she’s sparking conversations we’re often too scared to have.
What’s even cooler is how she does it. Sherman’s not just putting on a grey wig and calling it a day. She’s meticulously crafting these characters that tell a story, not just about aging, but about the roles society expects us to play as we get older. It’s a mirror to our faces, forcing us to confront our own biases and fears about getting older. In a way, Sherman’s work is more relevant now than ever. In this digital age where everyone’s fighting tooth and nail to stay forever young, her photos remind us of the beauty in aging, the stories our faces tell over the years, and the strength in embracing every part of ourselves. So, while the article gave us a good look at Sherman’s artistry and impact, I just wish it dug a bit deeper into this goldmine of a topic. It’s not just about the art; it’s about what the art is telling us about life, identity, and the inevitable march of time. And that’s a conversation worth having, don’t you think?