Weinberger (1921–2006) is now recognized as one of Switzerland’s most attractive photographers, known for his rough, intimate portraits of rebellious young people and raw athletic abilities. His lens focused on outsiders, rules breakers, and those who boldly lived beyond customs.
Photo by Karlheinz Weinberger
Photo by Karlheinz Weinberger
A rebel with a completely new cause
Wineburger’s most iconic work began in 1958, when a random encounter changed the course of his creative life. Wandering around the city of Zurich he met a young man who quickly attracted attention with greased hair, denim jackets and cowboy boots.
Through this stylish stranger, the Weinburger was featured in a loosely connected group of working-class teens. They were more than against grain. They were completely rejecting the clean and post-war Swiss ideals. These teens were known as “Halbstarken” or “Half-Strong.” This is a term that implies that they are immature, misplaced, or merely trouble.
In the 1950s, inspired by American film icons such as Marlon Brando, James Dean and Elvis Presley, Halbus Talken revolted his own glamorous take. They styled their hair in an exaggerated pompadour, dressed in a huge belt buckle and handmade jewelry, and customized the denim with impressive images.
Wineburgers filmed them everywhere. In his modest apartment, in the carnival circuit in Zurich, and in alleys they posed with smirks and smoldering gazes. His photos not only documented their aesthetics, but their unadulterated personality. Today, the work continues to be the most famous part of his 50-year artistic career.
Photo by Karlheinz Weinberger
Photo by Karlheinz Weinberger
Passion for the body
But the curiosity of Wineburgers goes far beyond the subculture style. In the 1960s, he began taking photographs of athletes and turned his attention to sports photography with the same strength he brought to young people’s portraits.
Recently released Karlheinz Weinberger – Sports (Vol. 2) Here we present a lesser known but deeply persuasive aspect of his work. Published by Sturm & Drang, The Bolume features images captured in Swiss racing, wrestling matches and Swiss and East Germany weightlifting competitions.
Wineburger, who worked for sports newspapers and magazines at the time, used his tasks as an opportunity to study the shapes of men who were moving. His photographs are not just about athletic ability, but about praise, desire, and the power of the human body.
Photo by Karlheinz Weinberger
Photo by Karlheinz Weinberger
Still developing legacy
Weinberger passed away in 2006, but his interest in his work grew. His photographs continue to resonate with bold self-expression and what is depicted in underground style. And thanks to the efforts of both the curators and fans, his legacy is preserved for a new generation.
To explore more of his work, check out our official Instagram account. @karlheinzweinberger.
Photo by Karlheinz Weinberger
Photo by Karlheinz Weinberger
Photo by Karlheinz Weinberger
Photo: Karlheinz Weinberger
Photo by Karlheinz Weinberger
Source: Gayety – gayety.co
