Cindy Sherman, Untitled 103

Printed for a 1999 exhibition at Mönchehaus Museum Goslar, this limited edition print showcases Untitled 103, a photographic artwork by Cindy Sherman. Created in 1982, the image features Sherman embodying a centrefold model, one of her many personas. A leading figure of the Pictures Generation, Sherman challenges portrayals of women in mass media. What might seem like a seductive image reveals deeper layers—her intentionally messy makeup and nuanced expression invite viewers to interpret the meaning behind her compelling work.

Cindy Sherman (born 1954 in New Jersey) is an influential American contemporary artist known for her groundbreaking work in photography. Her artwork primarily revolves around self-portraiture, where she explores identity, gender roles, and social constructs through the medium of photography. Sherman often uses herself as the model, transforming her appearance with costumes, makeup, and prosthetics to embody a variety of characters, from film stars to everyday figures, challenging the concept of a fixed identity. Cindy Sherman’s artworks typically involve a series of meticulously staged photographs, each with a narrative quality that blurs the line between reality and fiction. Her most famous series, “Untitled Film Stills” (1977-1980), features black-and-white photographs resembling publicity shots from mid-20th century films, evoking cinematic tropes of women in different roles. In these, and her later works, she questions how media shapes perceptions of femininity and identity. In addition to single images, Sherman often produces her work in print and edition formats, allowing for wider accessibility. Her prints and photographs are highly sought after in the art world, with limited editions making each work both scarce and valuable. These editions allow collectors to own a piece of her thought-provoking explorations of persona and identity. By limiting the number of prints, she maintains the exclusivity of her work while reaching a broader audience through museum collections and exhibitions. Cindy Sherman’s career has continually pushed the boundaries of photography and artwork, establishing her as a critical figure in contemporary art history.

Cindy Sherman, Untitled 103