Huma Rosentalski, 1990 DDR. Berlin: Hands on papers, 2020. Folded A3 (40 x 28 cm), 40 pp. Digitally printed photo zine on newsprint. Illustrated throughout with full page color photographs. Edition of 500. Edited by Martin Borst and Johannes Tolk.
A fine copy. Edges somewhat browned, as is normal with aging newsprint. A rare document of GDR/DDR citizens, smoking or not, from the year 1990, when the GDR was in dissolution. Kept in its original plastic pocket, with the 'Hands on papers' sticker. Contains an A5-size leaflet explaining the concept.
In February 1990, Huma Rosentalski was commissioned by tobacco company Phillip Morris to travel through the still-existing German Democratic Republic (GDR) and capture photographs of the country during its dissolution. However, when the images were sent to the USA, they disappeared into obscurity. Among the collection of Rosentalski's work, there are a series of anonymous portraits, which are now published by Hands on Paper.
During his journey in the GDR, Rosentalski encountered a country in transition, with historical figures and ordinary people caught in the midst of momentous changes. Enthusiasm, solidarity, and an air of uncertainty permeated the landscape, as the GDR grappled with the challenges of capitalism and the hope for reform through the "round table."
Sadly, the transformation came too late, and the course of history was already determined. The GDR dissolved, and the photographs taken during this crucial period went missing in the USA. However, in Rosentalski's archive, a collection of anonymous portraits remains as a testament to this pivotal time in history.
Rosentalski's photographs have been featured in various publications such as Elle, Marie Claire, Jalouse, Officiel, the Sunday Times, and the Guardian. Additionally, he has worked for Vanessa Bruno, Kitsuné, Martin Margiela, and Paul Smith.