Susanne Bartels | About me

My artistic work revolves around the intense interaction of individuals with their environment, their fellow human beings, and themselves. At its core lies a humanistic approach: the universal pursuit of every individual for visibility and recognition.

My highest principle is to approach the people I photograph with respect, to never diminish anyone’s dignity. On the contrary, I strive to uncover the poetry of the moment and to initiate, with every image, a story in the viewer’s mind that resonates on a personal level.

I meet my subjects without fear or prejudice, viewing every encounter as an opportunity to connect on a deeper, more intimate level. I see photography as a symbiotic triad between the protagonists in front of the camera, myself as the artist behind it, and the audience who engages with the final work. For me, this interplay is not a platform for manipulation; rather, it is a space where each participant can shape and articulate their own narrative.

My works are subjective manifestations of my artistic expression, born from authentic interactions with people. I invite viewers to see themselves reflected in my narrative compositions and to contemplate their own experiences. I am most drawn to places where life pulsates in its raw, unpolished form, where social dynamics and artistic reflection merge—spaces where human passion is tangible and unfiltered. These encounters inspire me and continuously drive my artistic evolution.

A central concern in my work is to look beyond the outer shell of individuals, to see behind their façades. Reflections, shadows, and mirrored surfaces are essential motifs in my photography—they reveal not only the visible but also the invisible and the unfathomable.

I hope that my work not only offers a moment of introspection but also initiates a triptych-like dialogue—between the artwork, the viewer, and their inner self.