Nora Berta Unica Ruth Zurn German writer, artist, sculptor Date of Birth: 06.07.1916 Country: Germany

1. Biography of Unica Zürn
2. Early Career
3. Marriage and Motherhood
4. Collaboration with Hans Bellmer
5. Move to Paris and Connections
6. Later Life and Tragic End

Biography of Unica Zürn

Unica Zürn was a German writer, artist, and sculptor. She was born on July 6, 1916, in Berlin. From early childhood, Zürn suffered from severe schizophrenia. She later wrote, "Even as a child, I split into two halves... I lack both enough man and enough woman, but there is just enough to hinder me from living."

Early Career

Zürn began her career at the age of twenty. In the 1930s, she worked as a screenwriter, editor, and director of advertising films at the Berlin film company "UFA."

Marriage and Motherhood

In 1942, Zürn got married, but three years later, she divorced. She left her two children under the care of their father.

Collaboration with Hans Bellmer

In 1953, Zürn met the renowned German artist and writer Hans Bellmer in Berlin. They became friends and collaborators in both visual and literary arts, writing experimental poems called "heterograms." Bellmer also worked as an illustrator for Zürn's books.

Move to Paris and Connections

Around the same time, Zürn moved to Paris with Bellmer. There, she made acquaintances with prominent figures such as Breton, Duchamp, Man Ray, Henri Michaux, and Max Ernst.

Later Life and Tragic End

From 1960 onwards, Zürn faced various problems in her life. She underwent a difficult abortion and received treatment for her mental disorder multiple times. After Bellmer suffered a stroke, which left him almost immobile, Zürn tragically took her own life by jumping out of a window in their Paris apartment on October 19, 1970.