NEW NORM, founded in 2024 by Lea Hansjürgen and Johanna Leifeld, is a platform dedicated to body diversity and self-acceptance. It creates safe spaces for womxn to challenge beauty norms through art and community.
A highlight of the 2024 NEW NORM Festival was the photographic project “Verbindung” (Connection), developed by photographer Alina Gross and painter Vanessa Hitzfeld. In this unique workshop, 20 participants—including the artists and organizers—came together unclothed to explore vulnerability and equality.
The resulting photo series blends body painting, artistic staging, and group presence, drawing inspiration from classical Renaissance compositions like Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People. Flowing lines and shapes connect the bodies, symbolizing unity and shared strength.
“Verbindung” challenges societal shame around female-coded features such as softness and curves, transforming nakedness from vulnerability into a source of power. Through this collaborative art, NEW NORM amplifies a message of acceptance and connection.
Concept: NEW NORM (@creating_new_norms) (Founders: @leahansjuergen & @vanstachelrochen)
Photography: Alina Gross (@alina.gross)
Painting: Vanessa Hitzfeld (@3dstreetart.vanessa)
