Heavenly Bodies I

2019

UHD Video with dolby 5,1 sound
13 min, 22 sec

Digital c-prints

Through Instagram I encountered fitness instructors, bodybuilders and MMA professionals during a recidency in Riga, Latvia. Their profiles show pictures and captions that convince you that all your goals are within reach, you can take controll and overcome fear.

Through selfies and motivational captions, they build their personal brands on social media. The monologue is based on these captions. The film follows their communication and training which subtly questions the iconic image of the strong, independent man. To subvert the normative image of training in the gym, the fitness instructors are filmed in natural landscapes. Surrounded by greenery, their bodies may be read in light of ritual and holy practices. Reminiscent of religious communities, their path is marked by discipline and dedication.