Gallery: Veronika I ‘Spriance’
This Russian art nude model is inescapably beautiful isn’t she?
From yesterday’s soaring mountaintop with the deep blue sea as backdrop, we’ve descended to the weathered wooden planks of a rustic pier at the edge of a large, muddy pond — or is that small, muddy lake? The sky is slightly overcast and the light somewhat muted. Voluptuous Veronika I, in a not entirely flattering green dress, appears eager and ready to make the most of the location in the first shot, and in the second she gleefully sheds the dress — a significant improvement.
Veronika I, plush and busty in the body, and pretty and cheerful in the face, appears at ease and comfortable as she follows the photographer’s instructions. Not all of Egon Schneider‘s instructions result in superior photos, however. In #029, for example, he has her strike what I imagine he considered an artistic, impressionistic pose, but the result is contrived, even if the model’s body is undeniably beautiful. The two shabby boats in the background also prove irresistible, and having Veronika sit in one of them and play at pulling at a length of rusty chain (#085) is another odd choice.
But Veronika I is more than capable of rising above the less that ideal setting. Indeed, the very best shots in this collection are those in which she reveals her natural, spontaneous side. Whether she’s casually gazing off-camera in #003, jumping for joy in #005, or standing on the prow of a dilapidated dinghy (#076) or disembarking from that crusty craft (#118) her charming energy and splendid body are beautifully captured. In “Spriance” Veronika I makes even this lackluster location look lovely.
Preview Gallery: Veronika I ‘Spriance’
Her profile: Veronika I
Art Nude Models: Met Art information.
