Olaf Heine

- In what way is art a tool for activism?

I would like to believe that art can be a positive impulse for empathy, participation and for socio-political concern. It definitely has the ability to communicate and convey emotions and actively address issues across linguistic and cultural barriers.

- In what way does your chosen piece for HRW reflect 2020?

The photograph ‘Girl descending a ramp’ is part of my book ‘Brazil’, a series of photographs that projects a tribute to the country’s natural beauty and spirited people. It took me several years and multiple attempts to find the right conditions that I felt were necessary to creatively unfold the strength of the building’s character. The Museo Nacional in Brasilia is one of the modernist masterpieces of the Brazilian capital built in the late 1950s. The suggestive and often female forms that Oscar Niemeyer molded in concrete became emblematic of the society’s self-conception at the time, the humanistic spirit and a belief in a better future. The proud architectural self-expression, the optimistic promise of a brighter time, where everything seemed possible, epitomized in Niemeyer’s buildings, appears now more than ever like a utopian dream, especially considering recent trends of political and social division caused by ruthless and populist power brokers in Brazil and around the globe.

- What gives you hope?

Looking into the eyes of my children.

BIO

Olaf Heine is a photographer and director based in Berlin and Los Angeles and is best known for his nuanced and carefully staged photographic portraits of artists, musicians and authors. He draws inspiration from exploring complexities, influences and potential synergies between individuals and their surroundings. His photographic works have been published on countless album covers and international advertising campaigns, in four books »Leaving the Comfort Zone« (2008), »I Love You but I’ve Chosen Rock« (2010), »Brazil« (2014) and »Rwandan Daughters« (2019) and in exhibitions around the world including Berlin, Los Angeles and Zurich. His photographs are part of prestigious private and public collections.

www.olafheine.com Instagram: @olafheinestudio

This artwork is unframed and located in Berlin, Germany. WILLAS contemporary will facilitate artwork release within 21 days after payment. Can be picked up by the buyer, or shipped at the buyer´s expense.