Will McBride Mike and Other Students in the Morning Shower, Schloss Schule Salem 1962
Silver gelatin photograph
Image 35 x 54 cm (13.77 x 21.25 in.)
Page 50.8 x 60.8 cm (20 x 24 in.)
Signed and titled, verso (original title Mike and Other Students in the Morning “Shower,” Schloss Schule Salem)
Will McBride, is often celebrated for his pivotal role in documenting the burgeoning youth culture and sexual revolution of postwar Berlin during the 1950s and 1960s. His work, characterized by a distinctive documentary style, was primarily aimed at capturing the multifaceted narratives of the time. McBride’s approach was thorough and immersive; he would often shoot hundreds of negatives for a single assignment, ensuring a comprehensive visual story.
A significant part of his career was his collaboration with European periodicals, most notably the German youth magazine “Twen.” This publication was at the forefront of exploring contemporary youth culture and found a perfect partner in McBride’s lens. His photographs for “Twen” were more than just images; they were insightful glimpses into the lives and minds of a generation navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing world.
One of McBride’s most notable assignments came in 1963 when “Twen” commissioned him to create a photo-essay on the School of Salem Castle, an institution renowned for being one of Europe’s most prestigious boarding schools. This project saw McBride diving deep into the daily lives of the students, capturing everything from their dining hall conversations and academic lessons to their athletic endeavors and leisure activities. His camera chronicled the routine and the extraordinary, painting a vivid picture of the school’s environment.
The photo-essay on the School of Salem Castle yielded a rich collection of photographs, many of which were published by “Twen.” Among these, the most iconic image was “Mike Wäscht mit Anderen Schule, Salem,” a striking photograph taken in the communal showers. This image, in particular, stood out for its candid portrayal of the students, encapsulating McBride’s talent for capturing intimate, unguarded moments. It not only reflected the essence of his documentary style but also resonated with the broader themes of openness and exploration that defined the era.
McBride’s work at the School of Salem Castle remains a testament to his skill as a documentarian, adept at weaving visual stories that offer a profound understanding of his subjects. His contribution through these photographs continues to be a valuable historical and artistic resource, providing insights into a unique and transformative period in European history.
