Florian Gatzweiler
Räume, die
Florian Gatzweiler (*1998) lives in Berlin and explores themes of identity, violence, and masculinity in his work. His projects are characterized by an empathetic approach to both personal and societal issues, which he often examines through a photographic lens. Gatzweiler combines documentary techniques with staged elements to create multilayered and complex narratives that do justice to the themes and issues he engages with.
In his project Räume, die, Gatzweiler investigates power structures and gender dynamics in prisons—microcosms of control and discipline. Here, power relations are maintained through surveillance, norms, and social hierarchies, leading to a persistent state of violence. As a result, physical barriers and social orders are reproduced, mirroring the power structures of society.
Räume, die was developed in collaboration with prison inmates. Through dialogues on structural dynamics, male behaviors within these systems were reflected upon and portrayed in staged images. Gatzweiler drew on the personal experiences and emotions of the inmates to illuminate situations that often receive little attention. His keen eye for fragile postures and unexpected moments of intimacy creates a unique tension that captivates the viewer.
During his studies at the Ostkreuz School of Photography, which he completed in 2024 under the mentorship of Irina Ruppert, Gatzweiler exhibited his work on several occasions, including at EMOP Berlin and Paris Photo. His accolades include a scholarship from the Sozio-Kultur Fonds and the Emerging Talent Award from Paris Photo.