Exploring Wim Wenders’ Written Once Exhibition: A Cinematic Journey Through Photography
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The Howard Greenberg Gallery in New York is currently hosting an extraordinary exhibition of photography by the acclaimed German filmmaker Wim Wenders. Titled Written Once,the showcase runs from January 29 through March 15,2025,and offers a rare glimpse into Wenders’ dual talents as a visual storyteller and photographer. Senior Editor of World Today News sat down with Dr. Elena fischer, a renowned film and photography historian, to discuss the exhibition’s themes, highlights, and Wenders’ unique artistic vision.
The Intersection of Cinema and Photography
Editor: Dr. Fischer, Wim Wenders is celebrated primarily as a filmmaker. How does his photographic work in Written once reflect his cinematic vision?
Dr. Fischer: Wenders’ photography is deeply intertwined with his filmmaking. The exhibition showcases his ability to capture moments that feel like stills from a movie—each image tells a story. For instance, the series Written in the West, created during his research for Paris, Texas, reveals his captivation with the American landscape. These photographs are not just visual records; they’re studies of light, space, and mood, which later informed his film’s aesthetic. Wenders’ work blurs the line between cinema and photography, offering viewers a window into his creative process.
The Role of Text in Written Once
Editor: One of the unique aspects of this exhibition is the inclusion of Wenders’ handwritten texts alongside the photographs.How do these narratives enhance the viewer’s experience?
Dr. Fischer: The texts are integral to the exhibition. They provide context, anecdotal insights, and a layer of intimacy that connects the viewer to Wenders’ personal experiences. Many entries begin with “Once, I…,” which feels like listening to a storyteller recount a memory. Such as,the photograph When Martin Scorsese Had a Flat Tire II is accompanied by a humorous tale of Wenders encountering Scorsese in the remote valley of the Gods. These narratives not only enrich the visual experience but also reveal Wenders’ wit and humanity.
Exploring the American West
Editor: The exhibition highlights Wenders’ travels through the American West. How did these journeys influence both his photography and his films?
Dr. Fischer: The American West is a recurring motif in Wenders’ work, symbolizing both freedom and isolation. his 1983 road trip, documented in Written in the West, was pivotal in shaping the visual language of Paris, Texas. These photographs capture the desolate beauty of the landscape, with its vast skies and empty highways.They reflect wenders’ ability to find poetry in the mundane, a trait that also defines his films.The West became a canvas for his exploration of themes like displacement and longing, which are central to his oeuvre.
Behind-the-Scenes Encounters
Editor: The exhibition includes stories of Wenders’ interactions with Hollywood figures like Martin Scorsese and Dennis Hopper. How do these anecdotes contribute to our understanding of Wenders’ career?
Dr. Fischer: These anecdotes are engaging because they humanize Wenders and illustrate his connections within the film industry. The story of Scorsese’s flat tire, for instance, is both humorous and revealing—it shows Wenders’ knack for finding drama in everyday situations. These encounters also highlight his collaborative spirit and his ability to navigate both the independent and mainstream film worlds. They add depth to our understanding of Wenders as a filmmaker who is deeply rooted in the global cinematic community.
Wenders’ Ongoing Legacy
Editor: With recent films like Perfect Days earning international acclaim, how does Written Once contribute to Wenders’ enduring legacy?
Dr. Fischer: written Once underscores Wenders’ versatility and his ability to transcend mediums.While his films have cemented his status as a master storyteller, this exhibition reveals his equally compelling talent as a photographer. It also reminds us that Wenders’ work is deeply autobiographical, rooted in his experiences and observations. As he continues to innovate with projects like Perfect Days, this exhibition serves as a testament to his enduring influence on both cinema and visual art.
Final Thoughts
Editor: What would you say to someone considering visiting the Written Once exhibition?
Dr. Fischer: I would encourage anyone interested in cinema, photography, or storytelling to visit. This exhibition is a rare opportunity to experience Wim Wenders’ work in a new light, through the lens of his photography.It’s not just a visual journey; it’s an exploration of memory, place, and the creative process. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the artistry of one of the most influential filmmakers of our time.
