ahnen/d

Photo Book | 2025

ahnen/d connects an anatomical remnant of evolution with a universal symbol of political rebellion through a choreographed sequence of hand movements.
At the center is the body – as a carrier of memory, stance, and action.

The core of the photo book ahnen/d is a choreographically guided hand movement. Through the deliberate transformation from an open hand into a clenched fist, the work interweaves the musculus palmaris longus – an anatomical remnant of evolution – with the fist as a symbol of historical and contemporary resistance and protest movements.

What emerges is an ephemeral memorial, reminding us that the way we remember, process, and embody history – whether evolutionary or political – quite literally lies in our hands.

The spatial staging of the photographic work reinforces this bodily connection. Arranged at hip height, the installation creates the illusion that someone is in the midst of performing the movement – inviting viewers to physically trace the sequence with their own bodies. A quiet, physical act of connection between image, body, and political consciousness.

Choreography:
Ronja Römmelt

Photography:
Ronja Römmelt

Lighting:
Ronja Römmelt

Performer:
Ronja Römmelt

Graphicdesign:
Fynn Römmelt

Edition:
Signed special edition, 12 copies – Sold out

Courtesy:
Swiss National Library
Library of Design Bern
Private collections

Production:
STUDIO RR