Steffen Diemer, born in 1966 in Grünstadt, Germany, is a contemporary photographer known for his poetic and intimate approach to capturing the essence of nature. His work is celebrated for its delicate, sensitive, and evocative qualities. Since 2011, Diemer has explored artistic photography, creating a distinctive body of work characterized by handmade pieces on black glass, often treated as individual objects. This emphasis on craftsmanship highlights the tactile and tangible aspects of his art. Over the years, he has established himself as a significant figure in fine art photography, with a portfolio that transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries.
Diemer's artistic journey took a pivotal turn after 20 years of photographing war and crisis regions, which led to burnout and a period of self-reflection. His exposure to traditional Japanese aesthetics and philosophy between 1994 and 1998 profoundly shaped his photographic sensibility. This influence, combined with a deep spirituality, reverence for divine creation, and a love of literature, infuses his work with meditative and contemplative qualities.
Meticulous craftsmanship and a profound connection to his subjects define Diemer's photographic process. He primarily employs the 170-year-old wet plate collodion technique, producing images directly on black glass. The physicality of these works, along with their intimate scale, invites viewers to engage deeply with each piece. This approach underscores the uniqueness of every photograph, transforming each one into a contemplative object of art.
Diemer's work has been widely exhibited in solo and group shows and is featured in prestigious collections. His presence at international art fairs underscores the universal appeal and lasting significance of his distinctive approach to photography, where each image becomes a poetic meditation on life's transience and the beauty found in fleeting moments.