Elfriede Mejchar

Elfriede Mejchar (1924-2020) was a pioneering Austrian photographer who documented Vienna’s social landscape through a unique lens. Often referred to as the “Grande Dame” of Austrian photography, Elfriede’s work strayed from the glitz and glamour, instead focusing on the city’s fringes and the lives of its inhabitants.

Born Elfriede Paula Jähnl in 1924, her artistic journey began after marrying photographer Othmar Mejchar. Together, they established a studio and began collaborating on commercial photography projects. However, Elfriede’s true passion lay in capturing the essence of Vienna itself. Her interest gravitated towards the city’s outskirts, the often overlooked areas that brimmed with character and stories. A quote attributed to her in the Wien Museum Magazin highlights this philosophy: “I find interesting what people leave behind.”

Elfriede’s work is particularly recognised for its focus on the aftermath of World War II. Her “ruin photography” documented the city’s scars, offering a stark reminder of the war’s devastation. These images serve not only as historical records, but also as poignant reflections on resilience and the power of human spirit.

Throughout her extensive career, her work garnered significant recognition. She received numerous awards in her later years, and her photographs found their way into prominent galleries, collections, and museums, including the Wien Museum. In 2020, following her death at the age of 96, the “Elfriede-Mejchar-Preis” was established in her honour.

Elfriede Mejchar’s legacy lies in her ability to capture the essence of Vienna beyond the postcard-perfect image. Her photographs serve as a window into the city’s social fabric, preserving a unique perspective on a bygone era. She is remembered as a true pioneer who used her lens to tell the stories often unheard.

By Harper Black