Anna Jaehnert, a PhD candidate and artist at the Harry W. Bass Jr. School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology, is breathing new life into the timeless tales of the Brothers Grimm through her photography exhibition, Spinning Stories to Gold. Featured at the AHT Gallery (ATC 3.102), her work reimagines iconic characters like Snow White and Rumpelstiltskin, capturing their essence with a blend of vivid imagery and historical depth.
Jaehnert’s exhibition explores not only the stories themselves but also the often-overlooked women who contributed to their creation. In an art talk hosted on Wednesday, she shared insights into her research, creative process, and the lives of Dortchen Wild, Marie Hassenpflug, Charlotte Hassenpflug, and Dorothea Viehmann. These women, instrumental in shaping two-thirds of the Grimm Brothers’ tales, are seldom recognized for their contributions.
Through her photography, Jaehnert invites audiences to see these stories from a new perspective, blending artistry with academic inquiry. This project exemplifies the Bass School’s commitment to fostering innovative and interdisciplinary approaches to storytelling, where art and scholarship converge.
For those who missed the art talk, we’ve added a glimpse of Jaehnert’s captivating work for your appreciation.