Wilhelm von Gloeden
Video + Vintage Photos
“Black and white are the colors of photography. To me they symbolize the alternatives of hope and despair to which mankind is forever subjected.”
Robert Frank
Wilhelm von Gloeden = German Photographer
VIDEO
WILHELM VON GLOEDEN
(September 16, 1856 – February 16, 1931)
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Wilhelm von Gloeden emerged as a pioneering photographer, capturing the beauty and essence of Sicily through his lens.
Recovering from tuberculosis, von Gloeden moved from his native Germany to Italy and shortly after to Sicily, where he lived most of his life.
Von Gloeden settled in Taormina, Sicily, where he found inspiration in the town's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. His photographs, often featuring nude youths in classical poses, were celebrated for their artistic merit and timeless beauty.
Beween 1890 and 1910, he created thousands of photographs. The images left an indelible mark on both the art world and the burgeoning field of photography.
Taormina became a renowned destination for gay Europeans, drawn by von Gloeden's reputation and the town's picturesque charm. His photographs not only highlighted the natural beauty of Sicily but also helped create a relatively welcoming safe destination for LGBTQ+ travellers.
Like classic art, artistic photography featuring nude youths was a common genre of the era, celebrated for its aesthetic and classical appeal.
Though many of von Gloeden's works were destroyed by fascist regimes over the years, the surviving negatives and prints are now cherished by art lovers and museums alike.
Von Gloeden's photos are explorations of form, light, and nature. His skillful use of natural settings and classical themes made his images stand out, influencing future generations of photographers and artists.
VINTAGE PHOTOS
MUSIC
Gavin Luke . This Was Fun
Gavin Luke / Eternum Nocturne
Gavin Luke / I’ll Be Around
Gavin Luke / The Comforts of You
Gavin Luke / Those Before Us
Courtesy Of Epidemic Sound