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Karen Knorr

This week’s photographer, Karen Knorr, plays with juxtapositions: exotic animals are placed into unfamiliar territories such as palaces, mausoleums or temples creating a surreal atmosphere. Knorr’s work draws on Indian history as well as Western popular culture and reminds of fairy tales and Disney films. However, on a metaphorical and less obvious level, Knorr’s work reveals a multi-dimensional and critical character. In her own words: “Cranes, zebus, langurs, tigers and elephants mutate from princely pets to avatars of past feminine historic characters … interrogating Indian cultural heritage and rigid hierarchies.” We picked out our favourite photographs from the series “India Song” and “Fables” to illustrate Knorr’s strong message.