Q&A with photographer Alexandra Klöhn about her upcoming exhibition: BARE – An Intimate Collection

Subject matter with nudity - viewer discretion advised.

What inspired you to create the "Bare - An Intimate Collection" body of work and what does the title signify?

In 'Bare - An Intimate Collection', I invite you to witness the profound interplay of light and shadow, the embrace of untamed landscapes and the unvarnished beauty of the human form- a testament to the deep connections that bind us.

The genesis of this collection was sparked by a profound desire to celebrate the purity of the human body, stripped bare of societal constructs and expectations. 'Bare' stands as an invitation to witness the raw, unfiltered beauty that resides within each of us.

Can you tell us about the concept and theme behind your exhibition? How does it relate to your personal experiences and artistic vision?

Drawing from six years of diverse work, 'Bare' weaves a tapestry of shadows, textures and forms, preserving the sacred shroud of anonymity. This is not just a collection but a curated journey through time and experience.

My journey in fashion, swimwear and fine art nude photography has enriched this collection. Each discipline contributed unique elements. Yet, it is my homeland, Namibia, with its awe-inspiring and rugged landscapes, that has always been a wellspring of inspiration. These landscapes serve as both muse and backdrop, uniting the human form with untamed wilderness. 'Bare' extends its reach to locales like Bali, Croatia and South Africa, each adding its unique charm to the narrative.

You have a diverse range of photography skills, from fashion to fine-art nude. How did your various experiences contribute to the creation of this collection?

My journey in fashion honed my sense of composition, swimwear added vibrancy and fine art nude allowed me to delve deep into the realms of intimacy and vulnerability.

Namibia is known for its stunning landscapes. How has your connection to nature influenced your work, especially in "Bare - An Intimate Collection"?

Namibia has always been a wellspring of inspiration. These landscapes serve as both backdrop and muse for 'Bare', uniting human form with untamed wilderness. 

Natural light plays a significant role in your photography. How do you harness and manipulate natural light to enhance your subjects in this collection?

Natural light, whether soft at sunrise or harsh in the Namibian desert, guides the narrative, creating a play of shadows and highlights that breathe life and emotion into each image.

What challenges did you face while working on this collection, and how did you overcome them?

Challenges have been ever-present on this journey, from finding models to fostering trust. Trust was the bridge to capture the raw emotions that infuse 'Bare.'

In "Bare," there is a sense of vulnerability and intimacy. Can you share some insights into how you establish trust and comfort with your subjects to capture such raw emotions?

Creating a safe space for my subjects, fostering open communication and ensuring they felt valued allowed raw emotions to surface naturally. It's within this trust that true artistry was born.

Do you have a favourite image or moment from the collection that holds special meaning to you? If so, can you share the story behind it?

Among the collection's gems, one image stands out, an ethereal figure emerging from the waters of Makarska, Croatia and another, a woman's back turned to the camera, gazing at a mountain in the Namibia Desert, cloaked in shadows, her form accentuated by stockings. Each carries a unique tale, a narrative woven into the very fabric of 'Bare.'

How do you hope viewers will connect with and interpret the images in "Bare - An Intimate Collection"?

This collection encourages viewers to shed biases, engaging in conversations about art's boundaries and the profound beauty of unity between the human form and nature.

Can you describe the technical aspects and equipment you used to bring this collection to life, especially when shooting in various locations?

In the technical realm, this collection springs to life through Canon lenses. My journey, spanning from the 5D MKi to the 5D MKiv, represents a continuous evolution. The EF 24- 105mm f/4L IS II USM lens proves invaluable when versatility and limited movement are paramount, while the EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens bridges distances, providing unique perspectives. Occasionally, a reflector enters the scene, subtly filling shadows and enhancing the interplay of light and shadow that imbues each image with life and emotion.

What advice do you have for aspiring photographers looking to explore intimate and emotionally charged themes in their work?

To aspiring photographers, I say: Find your voice, be patient, build trust and fearlessly explore the depths of human emotion.

Beyond photography, you also offer creative direction, production services, retouching, and video work. How do these additional skills complement your photography projects?

Beyond photography, my multifaceted skill set adds depth and dimension to storytelling. Creative direction allows me to envision and curate the entire narrative, ensuring that every element harmonises to convey the intended message. Production expertise ensures that each shoot is executed seamlessly, from location scouting to coordinating with models. Retouching is the fine brushstroke that refines each image, ensuring that it aligns perfectly with the envisioned aesthetic. Video work, on the other hand, extends the narrative beyond still images, providing a dynamic, immersive experience for the audience. These complementary skills collectively elevate my photography projects, infusing them with a richness and coherence that extends far beyond the frame.

How do you see your photography evolving in the future, and are there any new projects or themes you're excited to explore?

I see my photography as a never-ending evolution, a continuous chase of creative horizons. Currently, I am in the process of establishing a production company in Namibia, unlocking exclusive locations and landscapes for international talent and brands.

What message or feeling do you hope people take away from your exhibition and how do you see your work contributing to the broader conversation in the art world?

The message I hope people take away from 'Bare' is one of body positivity, of beauty redefined and of the freedom to express oneself authentically. It's a celebration of the exquisite contrast between soft curves and skin and the harsh textures and shadows of the real world. 'Bare' transcends societal norms, cherishing the beauty of humanity in its most vulnerable and profound state- a journey of introspection, conversation and celebration. 

Subject matter with nudity - viewer discretion advised.

What inspired you to create the "Bare - An Intimate Collection" body of work and what does the title signify?

In 'Bare - An Intimate Collection', I invite you to witness the profound interplay of light and shadow, the embrace of untamed landscapes and the unvarnished beauty of the human form- a testament to the deep connections that bind us.

The genesis of this collection was sparked by a profound desire to celebrate the purity of the human body, stripped bare of societal constructs and expectations. 'Bare' stands as an invitation to witness the raw, unfiltered beauty that resides within each of us.

Can you tell us about the concept and theme behind your exhibition? How does it relate to your personal experiences and artistic vision?

Drawing from six years of diverse work, 'Bare' weaves a tapestry of shadows, textures and forms, preserving the sacred shroud of anonymity. This is not just a collection but a curated journey through time and experience.

My journey in fashion, swimwear and fine art nude photography has enriched this collection. Each discipline contributed unique elements. Yet, it is my homeland, Namibia, with its awe-inspiring and rugged landscapes, that has always been a wellspring of inspiration. These landscapes serve as both muse and backdrop, uniting the human form with untamed wilderness. 'Bare' extends its reach to locales like Bali, Croatia and South Africa, each adding its unique charm to the narrative.

You have a diverse range of photography skills, from fashion to fine-art nude. How did your various experiences contribute to the creation of this collection?

My journey in fashion honed my sense of composition, swimwear added vibrancy and fine art nude allowed me to delve deep into the realms of intimacy and vulnerability.

Namibia is known for its stunning landscapes. How has your connection to nature influenced your work, especially in "Bare - An Intimate Collection"?

Namibia has always been a wellspring of inspiration. These landscapes serve as both backdrop and muse for 'Bare', uniting human form with untamed wilderness. 

Natural light plays a significant role in your photography. How do you harness and manipulate natural light to enhance your subjects in this collection?

Natural light, whether soft at sunrise or harsh in the Namibian desert, guides the narrative, creating a play of shadows and highlights that breathe life and emotion into each image.

What challenges did you face while working on this collection, and how did you overcome them?

Challenges have been ever-present on this journey, from finding models to fostering trust. Trust was the bridge to capture the raw emotions that infuse 'Bare.'

In "Bare," there is a sense of vulnerability and intimacy. Can you share some insights into how you establish trust and comfort with your subjects to capture such raw emotions?

Creating a safe space for my subjects, fostering open communication and ensuring they felt valued allowed raw emotions to surface naturally. It's within this trust that true artistry was born.

Do you have a favourite image or moment from the collection that holds special meaning to you? If so, can you share the story behind it?

Among the collection's gems, one image stands out, an ethereal figure emerging from the waters of Makarska, Croatia and another, a woman's back turned to the camera, gazing at a mountain in the Namibia Desert, cloaked in shadows, her form accentuated by stockings. Each carries a unique tale, a narrative woven into the very fabric of 'Bare.'

How do you hope viewers will connect with and interpret the images in "Bare - An Intimate Collection"?

This collection encourages viewers to shed biases, engaging in conversations about art's boundaries and the profound beauty of unity between the human form and nature.

Can you describe the technical aspects and equipment you used to bring this collection to life, especially when shooting in various locations?

In the technical realm, this collection springs to life through Canon lenses. My journey, spanning from the 5D MKi to the 5D MKiv, represents a continuous evolution. The EF 24- 105mm f/4L IS II USM lens proves invaluable when versatility and limited movement are paramount, while the EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM lens bridges distances, providing unique perspectives. Occasionally, a reflector enters the scene, subtly filling shadows and enhancing the interplay of light and shadow that imbues each image with life and emotion.

What advice do you have for aspiring photographers looking to explore intimate and emotionally charged themes in their work?

To aspiring photographers, I say: Find your voice, be patient, build trust and fearlessly explore the depths of human emotion.

Beyond photography, you also offer creative direction, production services, retouching, and video work. How do these additional skills complement your photography projects?

Beyond photography, my multifaceted skill set adds depth and dimension to storytelling. Creative direction allows me to envision and curate the entire narrative, ensuring that every element harmonises to convey the intended message. Production expertise ensures that each shoot is executed seamlessly, from location scouting to coordinating with models. Retouching is the fine brushstroke that refines each image, ensuring that it aligns perfectly with the envisioned aesthetic. Video work, on the other hand, extends the narrative beyond still images, providing a dynamic, immersive experience for the audience. These complementary skills collectively elevate my photography projects, infusing them with a richness and coherence that extends far beyond the frame.

How do you see your photography evolving in the future, and are there any new projects or themes you're excited to explore?

I see my photography as a never-ending evolution, a continuous chase of creative horizons. Currently, I am in the process of establishing a production company in Namibia, unlocking exclusive locations and landscapes for international talent and brands.

What message or feeling do you hope people take away from your exhibition and how do you see your work contributing to the broader conversation in the art world?

The message I hope people take away from 'Bare' is one of body positivity, of beauty redefined and of the freedom to express oneself authentically. It's a celebration of the exquisite contrast between soft curves and skin and the harsh textures and shadows of the real world. 'Bare' transcends societal norms, cherishing the beauty of humanity in its most vulnerable and profound state- a journey of introspection, conversation and celebration. 

Book your free ticket to the exhibition: Click here