Self-Portrait with Head

About This Movie

Self-Portrait with Head is an intriguing exploration of identity and performance by VALIE EXPORT. The film's surreal atmosphere is enhanced by EXPORT's striking curly wig and the slow-motion caress of a woman's breasts, which adds a layer of provocative intimacy. There's a tension between beauty and sterility, where the makeup feels both theatrical and cold, almost like a mask. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the viewer to really sit with the images, which lingers in your mind long after watching. It's a piece that challenges conventions and invites multiple readings, a true reflection of the artist's complex relationship with femininity and representation.

Self-Portrait with Head has become a bit of a rarity in collector circles, with early prints sought after. The film's unique experimental style and EXPORT's provocative performance have garnered scholarly interest, leading to occasional reissues but no widespread distribution. If you can find an original copy or a well-preserved version, it's definitely a conversation starter in any collection focused on avant-garde cinema.