Sexy balloons and female sexuality: My pictures in SPIEGEL

Balloons – colorful, bulging, shiny. At first glance, they're just decorations reminiscent of 80s birthday parties in Uncle Uwe's basement. But recently, my "sexy balloons" have been adorning the column about female sexuality in SPIEGEL. And I couldn't be happier, because this very connection demonstrates how much power lies in a seemingly banal motif.

Balloons with a difference

Why balloons? Honestly, I love their ambivalence. On the one hand, they're sweet, innocent, and childlike, but on the other, with their round, plump shapes, they have something that's... well, let's just say: not quite so innocent. I wanted to harness this tension—a little cheeky, a little playful, but never clumsy.

The SPIEGEL column addresses the topic of female sexuality from a modern, open perspective, and so do my images. They flirt with expectations, play with clichés, and at the same time offer enough space to reflect on what one actually sees.

Bright colors, clear messages

My visual language is loud, colorful, and direct—typical Pop Art, with a touch of punk attitude. I like to play with visual stimuli without losing sight of the content. Because ultimately, the photos should not only look beautiful, but also trigger something. Maybe a smile. Maybe reflection. Or both.

Reactions that surprise

Since the first images appeared in the column, I've been receiving exciting responses. "Cool, how you get so much out of something as simple as balloons!" or "Sexy balloons—really? But somehow it works!" That's exactly what I love about projects like this: They're ambiguous. They leave room for discussion and interpretation—and that's what makes them come alive.

From party decoration to statement

For me, these images are a statement that photography can be more than just illustration. It can surprise, excite, and sometimes even provoke—always with a wink.

I'm incredibly proud that my work contributes to illustrating such an important topic as female sexuality in a fresh, unexpected way. And who knows, maybe it will inspire someone to look at things from a new perspective—with or without balloons.

What do you think? Are balloons just balloons? Or is there more to them? I'm curious to hear your opinions!