The Body

Acne Paper Issue Nº 13

Sometimes it is fairly enough to judge a book by its cover. And a man by its outer appearance. The superelevated, superficial surface we all seek, aspire and adore. Allowing comparison of one's projected and actual 'self'.
/HORST

Straps & Strings VII

Harness Helmut Lang Spring/Summer 2003

Promises cannot wait, and indications are meant to be fullfilled. In realistic complentations and beautifying self-reflection. That's the purpose of photo booth, and the core motivation for stripping down in straps.
/HORST

Straps & Strings

1. Unknown
2. 'Paris Playground' by Steeve Beckouet

This is a prequel. A retrospective series of contemporary strapping. The German word 'Strapse' might be worth being looked up and explored in depth. In the meanwhile, we are tie-lacing the torso in a non-sexual manner with sexual connotations.
/HORST

Performance Art

Fencing waistcoat Ann Demeuelemeester

A theoretical construct is brought into theatrical performance. The body in its centre, the garment as the opponent, a dramatic antagonist. Eventually, they find together. I'd like to call this play The Antwerp Collection.
/HORST

Slit II

1. Karim Sadli
2. Dior Homme Spring/Summer 2011 Backstage

It has only been lately that I've realized the beauty of a male torso's side. A view that is rarely being shared or descried. Therefore, I kindly solicit its more frequent appearance.
/HORST

Petrarca's Heir II

Artworks Keith Farqhar

Torso sculptures. Obviously carrying the traces of weather conditions. Seemingly being torso sculptures. In fact, they are flat cardboard cutouts. Mounted on cubic pedestals.
/HORST

Petrarca's Heir

Photos Alex Rank

Neither authentic nor artificial. Neither human nor sculpture. Skin as perfect and sleek as marble. No hair, no flaw, no beauty mark. So close and yet so distant. So real and yet so staged.
/HORST