“Cindy Sherman, 1977-1982,” an exhibition at Hauser & Wirth, New York

As a revolutionary in the field of artistic photography, and one of the pioneering women to do so, this exhibition presents over one hundred works of the American artist’s influential early series. Preferring to work alone, the multidisciplinary artist acted not only as a photographer, but also a makeup artist, hairdresser, stylist, director, casting agent, her work was heavily inspired by depictions of women in film and television. Forty years onwards, her work, to be seen as a direct challenge to a range of female stereotypes –think of the house wife, femme-fatale or career tiger– remains highly relevant today, addressing the representation of women in society and the media, and the ways in which it is deeply intertwined with gendered identity.

“Cindy Sherman, 1977 – 1982,” is on view from May 4 until July 29 at Hauser & Wirth, 69 Street, New York

Photos by Cindy Sherman