Jurgen Ostarhild believes that any analog photography functions as a tool for reproducing reality. However, when photography becomes digital, it loses its spatiotemporal constraints and transforms into a medium of pure creation—no longer merely a means of reproduction.
ÜBERBABES by Jurgen Ostarhild stems from a simple observation: a face often defines style or appearance more powerfully than many fashion dictates. While traditional photographers use makeup, lighting, and a variety of tools to enhance their models, Ostarhild employs his extensive physical database to manipulate pixels on his computer screen. His images are snapshots of beauty in progress, resulting in a rare perfection that feels as authentic as reality—far removed from typical computer graphics or special effects.
In 1990 as a fashion photographer, Ostarhild was among the first to abandon traditional photography in favor of emerging digital technologies. Much like a DJ mixing music, he blends the pixels in every digital image. Noses, eyes, mouths, hair, skin tone, and both male and female facial features are merged to create a virtual, hybrid, and striking form of beauty.
Ostarhild believes that any analog photography functions as a tool for reproducing reality. However, when photography becomes digital, it loses its spatiotemporal constraints and transforms into a medium of pure creation—no longer merely a means of reproduction.
"In 2000, some of my themes were about bodies and identities. I no longer saw reality in bodies. Genetics, cloning, and plastic surgery allowed each person to reappropriate and reconfigure their own bodies. Back then, I blurred emerging questions about identity as well as transgender identity by using Photoshop to visually sample all differences (sexual, ethnic, and physical).
ÜBERBABES is fiction that looks like photography. These portraits are the result of resampling hundreds of portraits I took in my studio in Paris during castings for my commissioned work."
– Jurgen Ostarhild