by Cynthia E

The photography of Gabi Steinhuaser, winner of the Museum's biannual Scholarship for Documentary Photography, is now featured on the design floor. The Kunst and Gewerbe have offered this award in conjunction with the Hochschule für bildende Künste Hamburg since 1765.

When asked what kind of photography Ms. Steinhauser would like to be noted for, she was without answer. She is still evolving, and when something moves her she takes the photo. She says it is a reflection of her time "to photograph the object without opinion". Perhaps it is a reflection of the late 20th and early 21st centuries lack of respect for life’s privileges and large egos, noted by key educators worldwide.

However, once you enter the room filled with her photographs and an installation she directed, you will see a definite opinion on the constructionism and destructionism of our man-made world. At once frightening and romantic. Straight lines and movement. Grey and Colour. Straight forward and like life, upside down.

From the eyes of an amateur photographer, I believe the photographs are fabulous in clairity and intensity. Surely, this award winner does have vision.