A History of Nudity

Our relationship with our unclothed bodies speaks volumes about social conventions and norms. From the history of naturism to the instrumentalization of nudity, this is an exploration of a concept that is as taboo as it is omnipresent.

In the West, social, cultural, and religious norms teach us from childhood to clothe ourselves and to view nudity as shameful. Yet, some people challenge this taboo. Naturism—which emerged in 19th-century Europe—was born, as the name suggests, of a desire to feel closer to nature. While it enjoyed its heyday in East Germany, it is practiced less and less on Baltic beaches today. France, meanwhile, has become the world’s leading naturist destination, welcoming two and a half million enthusiasts annually. In the era of body positivity, more and more young people are embracing the practice, convinced that it fosters a healthy relationship with one’s appearance and showcases bodies in all their diversity.

In the Buff

This two-part documentary explores the implications of being “in the buff”—examining the subject from every angle. The first episode traces the history of naturism, from its origins to its distinct cultural expressions in France and Germany. The second examines the role of nudity itself: whether used to grab attention, assert oneself, or humiliate, it serves a deeply political function. A spotlight on a concept that is as taboo as it is omnipresent.

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