Exhibit of work by Karlheinz Weinberger will chronicle photographer’s images of youth culture in post-war Zurich

• The Bob Mizer Foundation announces "Karlheinz Weinberger: Outsiders Within," an exhibition showcasing the original photographs of Karlheinz Weinberger, exploring themes of identity, freedom, and societal norms, available from May 2 to Aug. 31, 2024, marking the first presentation of Weinberger's work on the US West Coast.
• Weinberger's photography, starting in the 1960s in Zurich, focused on the rebellious youth and "Halbstarken," capturing their defiance and quest for individuality through their self-fashioned attire and gatherings, with a deep connection and empathy from Weinberger.
• The exhibition will also feature a lecture by co-curator Bruce Hackney as part of the Foundation’s June Speaker Series, discussing Weinberger's impact on photography and his exploration of rebellion, vulnerability, and diversity through his work.

Wednesday, April 29, 2024 (San Francisco, CA) – The Bob Mizer Foundation is thrilled to showcase Karlheinz Weinberger: Outsiders Within, a captivating exhibition of original photographs delving into themes of identity, freedom, and the fearless challenge of societal norms by the visionary Karlheinz Weinberger (1921-2006). This exclusive exhibit will grace the Foundation’s main gallery from May 2 to Aug. 31, 2024, offering a unique perspective on Weinberger’s groundbreaking work.

This exhibition will be the debut showcase of Weinberger's work on the US West Coast, offering a fresh perspective on his unique vision.

Weinberger’s professional works began in the early 1960s in Zurich, Switzerland, where he captured the bad boys of teenagedom. A fan of Elvis Presley and James Dean, Weinberger’s lens documented rebellion in action, boys who lived on the fringes of society. They were called “Halbstarken,” and their brand of masculinity emphasized the right to personal freedom in a society of seemingly endless restrictions. 

“Weinberger's fascination with these young rebels was more than mere observation; it was a deep connection to their desire for individuality,” according to a description of the exhibit from the Foundation “As a quiet observer, he was invited into their world, documenting their gatherings and self-fashioned attire with a genuine curiosity and empathy that transcended the visual. His photography sessions became collaborative art, a space where the 'Halbstarken' could further amplify their defiance against societal norms.”

The nudes presented in Weinberger’s works displayed not only rebellion, but also vulnerability, revolution, and a more raw, unpolished type of male beauty. 

“Weinberger's photographs, beginning to be recognized by a wider audience, remind us of the enduring relevance of his vision,” the exhibit’s description continues. “They speak to current generations about the importance of defiance, the beauty of diversity, and the inherent dignity of all individuals, regardless of societal judgment.”

In addition to the exhibit, co-curator Bruce Hackney will deliver a lecture for the Foundation’s June Speaker Series on Weinberger and his groundbreaking photography.  The lecture, which will include some of Weinberger’s most compelling images, will take place on June 21. 

For more information, visit https://bobmizer.org/calendar. 

About The Bob Mizer Foundation

The Bob Mizer Foundation Inc. was established in 2010 by photographer Dennis Bell for charitable and educational purposes, and as an organization committed to promoting and preserving the works of progressive and controversial photographers. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Foundation is supported by grants, donations, and the contributions made by its devoted members, interns, and volunteers. 

Press Contact

Corbin Crable
Chief Communications Officer
corbin@bobmizer.org

De Kwok
Head of Public Programming
de@bobmizer.org