Features - Psoriasis - The Naked Truth

Around 5.1 million people suffer from psoriasis in Europe, with the worldwide figure believed to be around 80 million. 19 of those have now been photographed by Ralf Tooten and included in an exhibition to be shown throughout Europe.

The exhibition “The Naked Truth” wants to display the physical and emotional impact psoriasis has on daily life. On show are large scale photographs in which the 19 sufferers unveil some of their skin and with that a part of them, to demonstrate that the disease does not rule their lives.

“A photographer’s challenge is to pull a person out of their skin and to show what’s really inside.” Ralf Tooten, Photographer

One hurdle Ralf Tooten had to overcome was to photograph people who were used to covering up their skin for most of their life, because of their fear of being judged by their environment. With his work Tooten attempted to capture the strength and true soul of these people.

 “The Naked Truth” is a series of photographs accompanied by a short narration telling us about their life with psoriasis. These are inspirational stories with challenges and triumphs. The exhibition will tour Europe after it’s unveiling in Amsterdam. You can find photographs, video and back ground information here: "Psoriasis – The Naked Truth".

The project has been initiated by Wyeth who produces drugs for the treatment of psoriasis.

What do think about this project? Would you take part in a similar project? Share your views in the forum.

Written by Nadja Wait – website manager TalkPsoriasis – based on information on the website www.psoriasisthenakedtruth.com