RENATE GRAF | THE SACRED AND THE PROFANE

Renate Graf's photographic journey commenced in 1993 when she embarked on her first expedition along the Silk Route, alongside her partner at the time, artist Anselm Kiefer.

Beginning in China, she traversed the Taklamakan Desert, continued through Uzbekistan and Pakistan, reached Nepal, and concluded her remarkable journey in India.

This initial encounter with the Indian subcontinent left an indelible mark on Renate Graf, becoming a pivotal point that set the stage for numerous subsequent explorations.

Her lens primarily captured the essence of South India, particularly Karnataka, where she documented the rustic landscapes of brick factories. Tamil Nadu, home to some of the oldest and largest Hindu temples, became another focal point, with all the temple offerings and holy rituals.

Another feature of this book is the famous Kali festival, in Kolkata, and the sacred Kumbh Mela festival in Haridwar on the Ganges river.
Renate Graf's photographic portfolio not only spans the diverse landscapes of India and South Asia but also extends to other parts of the world.

She exhibited her work in prestigious museums worldwide and engaged in socially conscious projects such as documenting life in the Favelas of Rio, and the stark reality of the melting of the ice in Siberia and Alaska.

Throughout her 25-year partnership with artist Anselm Kiefer, Renate Graf documented his studio and artistic endeavors, offering a unique insight into the creative process of one of the most influential contemporary artists.

Renate Graf's commitment to analog photography adds a timeless quality to her work, emphasizing her dedication to the craft over the years. Her body of work stands as a testament to a life spent capturing the beauty, diversity, and socio-cultural nuances of our world.