monsters fiercely reclaims the monstrosity that is projected on survivors and those who speak up against abuse (of power) and systems of oppression. This eclectic work is an empowering celebration of the liberating power of one’s voice, resilience, healing, community, care - and love. It is also a sensitive and thought-provoking reflection on the figure of the monster and the complex interconnections between interpersonal and societal power relations.

Valerie Reding created 16 vibrant, staged photographic portraits of individuals who have survived abuse in interpersonal relationships, highlighting diverse gender and sexual identities as well as cultural backgrounds to explore intersections of personal and systemic power dynamics: Aron Smith, Bast Hippocrate, Pauline Canavesio aka BORA, Robyn Cloé Iyongo, Salou Sadras and William Cardoso. Inspired by the aesthetics of 19th century Freak Show posters and Susan Sontag’s concept of camp, Reding crafted surreal, superhero*ine alter-egos of the subjects, using humor and bold colors to explore authenticity through artifice and sublimate trauma into empowerment. Through intimate, consensual collaboration over several months, Reding designed and hand-crafted body extensions, accessories and makeup tailored to their identities, fostering body positivity and restoring confidence. On the day of the photo shooting, Reding transformed Aron, Bast, Pauline, Robyn, Salou and William into flamboyant and beautiful monsters. By focusing on direct gazes, the portraits celebrate the resilience and humanity of the individuals, reframing their experiences without objectifying or reactivating their pain. The photos are entirely created in the camera, without any CGI, as Reding enjoys working with materials and bodies in space, aiming to provide an empowering and transformative experience, not only to the viewer, but also to the participants.

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concept & artistic direction

Valerie Reding

photography, prosthetics & scenography

Valerie Reding

people portrayed & texts

Aron Smith, Bast Hippocrate, Pauline Canavesio aka BORA, Robyn Iyongo, Salou Sadras, William Cardoso

costume assistance

Nahuel Mendez

ceramic objects

Kwadrat by Luka Stamenkovic

production assistance

Nico Dubosson

production & administration

REDart

co-production

Tanzhaus Zürich

partners

Grand Studio Bruxelles, TROIS C-L - Maison Pour La Danse

financial support

Cassinelli-Vogel-Stiftung, Ernst und Olga Gubler-Hablützel Stiftung, Fondation Émilie Gourd, Fondation Été, Fonds RESPECT by Pink Cross, TGNS - Transgender Network Switzerland & LOS - Lesbenorganisation Schweiz, Kanton Zürich Kultur, Kultur|lx Arts Council Luxembourg, Migros-Kulturprozent, Ministère de la Culture Luxembourgeois, Oeuvre Nationale de Secours Grande-Duchesse Charlotte, Stadt Zürich Kultur