Herlinde Koelbl. Angela Merkel. Portraits 1991-2021

Angela Merkel's long-term photo study by Herlinde Koelbl documents her ascent to one of the most powerful politicians in the free world, showing how the traces of power changed her. The photo artist captured Merkel's human side through surprising openness and intimacy, creating a unique documentary portrait of an extreme physical and psychological transformation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 22 December 2021
Publisher: Taschen GmbH

Angela Merkel, a remarkable politician, has been the subject of a long-term photo study by Herlinde Koelbl, documenting her astonishing ascent from a 37-year-old political outsider to one of the most powerful politicians in the world. The study spans from 1991 to 2021, with a short hiatus, and includes both headshots and three-quarter-length shots against a plain white background. The photographs capture the transformation of Merkel, who at the start of the ritual was still almost 15 years away from becoming the first woman chancellor of Germany.

The study explores the challenges and changes Merkel faced in her political journey, as well as the impact of politics on her private life. Koelbl's photographs reveal Merkel's human side, showcasing her surprising openness and intimacy with the photographer. The two women share a unique relationship, described as "one of the most unusual relationships in modern politics."

Koelbl's documentary portrait of Angela Merkel is a unique and comprehensive portrayal of a global leader. It spans the entirety of her epoch, from the first year to the last, and provides a written record of her extraordinary rapport. The portrait captures not only Merkel's physical and psychological transformation but also the depth of her connection with the people she served.

Through her photographs, Koelbl invites viewers to explore the complexities of Merkel's leadership and the impact she has had on the world. The study offers a glimpse into the inner workings of a political powerhouse and sheds light on the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in public service.

In conclusion, Angela Merkel: an era ends—and with it a project unique in the world. Herlinde Koelbl's long-term photo study captures the remarkable journey of a politician who has left an indelible mark on global politics. Through her photographs and words, Koelbl provides a comprehensive portrait of Merkel's transformation, her resilience, and her unique rapport with the people she served. The study is a testament to the power of photography to document history and capture the human essence of extraordinary individuals.

Weight: 2680g
Dimension: 381 x 312 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783836588737
Edition number: Bilingual ed