EVA MERZ, born 1966, lives and works in Esbjerg, Denmark.
Merz is is a photography-based visual artist as well as a writer, editor and publisher. Her work is based on a social practice, which includes engaging and collaborating with people from various backgrounds. Taking the approach of an anthropologist she emerges into unfamiliar communities with a methodology signified by participant observation, informal interviews and collective discussion. Her research strategies aim to gain a close familiarity with the individuals that she works with. Her focus covers both the specific: the life of the individual, and the common: human condition in a wider context.
In Scotland Merz created the "New Social Art School" (2004-2010), a collaborative arts movement, engaging in projects informed by local politics and social issues. Through publications, photography, public events, street art and activism, they intended to communicate issues of common interest directly to the public.
In 2011 Merz returned to her hometown Esbjerg and continued her practice as a socially engaged artist, writer and photographer. Since 2013 Merz has worked in and around a social housing area. After completing a public mural project in collaboration with local residents, she emerged on a long-term photography project which culminated in the exhibition and publication Gammel Vardevej – indefra (Danish). She continuously works with people from the area…