Elizabeth Waterman's Captivating Photography Exhibition in Paris Explores Sex and Politics
Elizabeth Waterman's Photography Shines in Paris Exhibition
Paris is set to host a remarkable exhibition titled 'Sex and Politics,' featuring the renowned photographer Elizabeth Waterman. The event will take place in the vibrant Bastille district, coinciding with the highly anticipated Paris Photo festival. This exhibition aims to delve into the nexus of sexuality, representation, and power within contemporary photography, showcasing works that question societal norms and emphasize the political implications of personal intimacies.
Waterman’s featured work, Table Dance, Sam’s Hofbrau, Downtown Los Angeles, California, 2019, is taken from her much-acclaimed book MONEYGAME. This poignant photograph offers an unfiltered, documentary-style glimpse into the world of sex work, honoring the subject with a blend of complexity and artistic sensitivity. Published by XYZ Publishing in Lisbon, MONEYGAME has been celebrated for capturing the female perspective on sexuality and was a quick sell-out, disappearing from shelves within six months.
The exhibition, Sex and Politics, boasts a carefully curated list of international artists, including the likes of Joel-Peter Witkin, Mark Seliger, Roger Ballen, Antoine d'Agata and Nadia Tolokonnikova from the famed group P Riot. Adding an intellectual layer to the exhibition, philosopher Slavoj Žižek contributes insightful text that provokes further thought on the intricate topics of sexuality and politics. Located within the context of a historic 19th-century building, the exhibition space spans over 1,000 square meters and uniquely combines early modern architectural elements with modern exhibition design, allowing the artwork to truly come alive.
Curator Danila Tkachenko emphasizes the significance of Waterman's work in this context, stating, "Sexuality transcends mere personal pleasure or freedom; it is an arena where ideologies, social structures, and symbolic authority collide. Elizabeth Waterman’s artistry encapsulates this intersection, merging informative documentary methods with a robust artistic vision."
Waterman is not stopping with this exhibition; she is poised to debut a new series titled Propulsion at Photo London 2026. This innovative project, entirely shot on 35mm and 120mm film without using post-production techniques, links the artistry found in erotic dance with the fluid movements of jellyfish. Through this series, she invites viewers to reevaluate conventional beliefs surrounding eroticism and performance, celebrating the beauty in vulnerability and expression.
Opening Reception: November 13, 2025, at 7:00 PM
Exhibition Dates: November 13-16, 2025
Venue: 74 Bd Richard-Lenoir, 75011 Paris, France
About Elizabeth Waterman
Based in Los Angeles, Elizabeth Waterman is a photographer known for her female-focused depictions of sexuality, eroticism, and sex work. By exploring the intricate dimensions of desire, identity, and performance, she presents her subjects with dignity, complexity, and artistry.
As the opening date approaches, the excitement surrounding Sex and Politics continues to build, promising an eye-opening experience that challenges perceptions and stimulates discussion about some of society's most pressing issues surrounding intimacy and power dynamics. Be sure not to miss this groundbreaking exhibition in the heart of Paris!