Cindy Sherman, Untitled (Parkett 29)

Cindy Sherman’s Untitled (Parkett 29) is a limited edition artwork, published by Parkett magazine in 1991. In Vol 29 of the art magazine, Sherman is described in the following way: “They say that with her approach to photography the line between painting and photography starts oscillating. Success is immediate, uncomplicated, undisputed, as if it were (still) child’s play.” (Ursula Pia Jauch, Parkett No. 29, 1991)

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. 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. Sherman’s career has continually pushed the boundaries of photography and artwork, establishing her as a critical figure in contemporary art history.