Fat Ladies Club, Paris

William Klein

How many women can be seen in this photo?

LUMCWomen

‘Fat Ladies Club’ by William Klein (1990) celebrates pride, self-confidence and the power of visibility. The women embrace their bodies without shame, inviting acceptance. In doing so, the work resonates with LUMCWomen, where inclusion, recognition and the freedom to be yourself are central values.

The women embrace their bodies without shame, inviting acceptance. In doing so, the work resonates with LUMCWomen, where inclusion, recognition and the freedom to be yourself are central values.

About the work

The American photographer William Klein (1928-2022) was known for his street photography and city scenes. Few street photographers photographed life as close to the skin as William Klein.

Kein strove to depict reality as it presented itself to him. His photos are reminiscent of photographer Robert Capa's famous statement: 'If your pictures aren't good enough, you aren't close enough'. This photo of a group of ladies in a bathhouse in Paris shows how close and true to nature he managed to capture the women.

Silver gelatin print, 52.5 x 67 cm, 1990