A complex dynamic exists between muse and artist – one that is often characterized by dependency and exploitation. In a world where inspiration and ownership claims merge, power games, artistic craving for recognition and the longing for authenticity unfold. What happens when someone is no longer satisfied with the role they have been assigned?

Elena Wolff's ASHES delves into these entanglements and uses black humor to expose the abysses of a self-centered art world. In the midst of this search stands SHE, an artist who has to assert herself between admiration and ownership. While her relationship with Simeon becomes increasingly asymmetrical, it is Jakob who perceives her as a person. Élise and Emilia are also facing a crucial test, while Anna finds a love that lies beyond all conventions.

The film premiered at the Diagonale 2024, where it won the award for best cinematography in a feature film. Further festival stops included the Crossing Europe Film Festival in Linz and the achtung berlin film festival. In a mixture of static dialogue scenes, performative moments and musical fragments, ASCHE questions how deeply socially anchored power structures intervene in the lives and work of young artists.