Detroit's Russell Exhibition Center is abuzz with the annual Dirty Show, an erotic art festival that has grown steadily since its debut in 2000. Among the vibrant works on display is a series of photographs by Chas Ray Krider, which pay tribute to Dita Von Teese, the burlesque and fetish icon who has been captivating audiences for decades.
In 1998, Krider first met Von Teese at his studio in Ohio, where he was working on a project dubbed "Motel Fetish." The series featured women in hotel rooms, shot using film intended to be shot in daylight. This low-key aesthetic lends an air of authenticity to the images, evoking a cinematic look that feels like stills from a film.
Von Teese's presence in Krider's work was always assured. "I could tell she was going to be a star," he says. "From the beginning, it was obvious that she had the credentials and the look and attitude to be a major celebrity." The photographs showcase Von Teese in various poses, often with Old Hollywood-style glamour evident in her corset-cinched waist.
Krider's collaboration with Von Teese has been ongoing over the years. He has shot her multiple times, including sessions in California, Ohio, and Indiana. Their partnership is one of mutual respect, with Krider crediting Von Teese for her professionalism and control on set. "She was always ahead of the pack," he says.
The Dirty Show has evolved into a global phenomenon, attracting attendees from around the world. It's a celebration of erotic art, burlesque, and drag shows, as well as other forms of self-expression that push boundaries. Jerry Vile, the founder of the event, acknowledges its growth but emphasizes the core goal remains to create an immersive experience that encourages attendees to think beyond their comfort zones.
This year's show promises to be no exception, with a range of exhibitions and performances on offer. One highlight is the return of "The Daddy Hole," a leather nightclub featuring live music and performance art. Another attraction is Lil Miss Fire Fly's miniature strip club, where tiny performers navigate a setting designed for an entirely different height.
As Vile quips, "To me, if you are in your 20s or 30s, you're a kid." The Dirty Show has become a space for those who refuse to be pigeonholed into traditional art or entertainment categories. It's a celebration of creativity and experimentation, where the lines between high art and popular culture blur.
Tickets start at $50, and the event takes place from February 13-21 at the Russell Exhibition Center in Detroit. The Dirty Show is an unmissable experience for fans of erotic art, burlesque, and self-expression.
In 1998, Krider first met Von Teese at his studio in Ohio, where he was working on a project dubbed "Motel Fetish." The series featured women in hotel rooms, shot using film intended to be shot in daylight. This low-key aesthetic lends an air of authenticity to the images, evoking a cinematic look that feels like stills from a film.
Von Teese's presence in Krider's work was always assured. "I could tell she was going to be a star," he says. "From the beginning, it was obvious that she had the credentials and the look and attitude to be a major celebrity." The photographs showcase Von Teese in various poses, often with Old Hollywood-style glamour evident in her corset-cinched waist.
Krider's collaboration with Von Teese has been ongoing over the years. He has shot her multiple times, including sessions in California, Ohio, and Indiana. Their partnership is one of mutual respect, with Krider crediting Von Teese for her professionalism and control on set. "She was always ahead of the pack," he says.
The Dirty Show has evolved into a global phenomenon, attracting attendees from around the world. It's a celebration of erotic art, burlesque, and drag shows, as well as other forms of self-expression that push boundaries. Jerry Vile, the founder of the event, acknowledges its growth but emphasizes the core goal remains to create an immersive experience that encourages attendees to think beyond their comfort zones.
This year's show promises to be no exception, with a range of exhibitions and performances on offer. One highlight is the return of "The Daddy Hole," a leather nightclub featuring live music and performance art. Another attraction is Lil Miss Fire Fly's miniature strip club, where tiny performers navigate a setting designed for an entirely different height.
As Vile quips, "To me, if you are in your 20s or 30s, you're a kid." The Dirty Show has become a space for those who refuse to be pigeonholed into traditional art or entertainment categories. It's a celebration of creativity and experimentation, where the lines between high art and popular culture blur.
Tickets start at $50, and the event takes place from February 13-21 at the Russell Exhibition Center in Detroit. The Dirty Show is an unmissable experience for fans of erotic art, burlesque, and self-expression.
, it's like a party for grownups who wanna be kids again 
. Vile's right, if you're 20-30, you're still a kid 
. And Dita Von Teese is the queen 
of this freaky world 
.
. He recognizes her value, her talent, and her professionalism. That's the kind of mentorship and respect that can lead to amazing collaborations 
.
. The Dirty Show isn't just about erotic art; it's about creativity, experimentation, and embracing our individuality.
. That's the spirit of innovation, and that's something we can all get behind 
I mean, have you seen those old Hollywood-style glamour shots by Chas Ray Krider? They're giving me LIFE! And the way she owns that corset is EVERYTHING 
. But can we talk about the fact that The Daddy Hole is back? Leather nightclub with live music? Yes, please! 
and chas ray krider's photography is seriously amazing - i love how he captures dita von teese's old hollywood glamour vibe in those motel fetish photos 
. As Vile aptly puts it, "To me, if you are in your 20s or 30s, you're a kid" - and I couldn't agree more 
. February 13-21 is shaping up to be an unforgettable experience for fans of erotic art and self-expression.
! It's like a party for grown-ups who still have a wild streak 
. And it's awesome that they're celebrating artists who aren't afraid to push boundaries and take risks 
. I mean, $50 tickets? That's like, a night out in LA or something 
. And what's up with all these 'miniature' performances? Is that just trying to cash in on the novelty factor? 
.
anyway, can't wait to check out this year's show 
. I'm def checking it out with my squad 
. The idea of being able to see all this art and self-expression in one place is pretty mind-blowing 
The photography by Chas Ray Krider featuring Dita Von Teese is actually kinda cool, but I'm not sure if it's enough to convince me to shell out $50 for tickets. I mean, the event itself has grown into a global phenomenon, which is wild. It's definitely not my cup of tea, but hey, to each their own! 