In The Arsenic Eaters, Simon Brugner investigates the widespread historical belief that the consumption of arsenic, one of the most potent mineral poisons, is beneficial to one’s health. Many “poison eaters” were found among the pre-20th century rural population in the eastern parts of the Alps (especially in Styria, Austria). Still accessible arsenic mines in that region date back as far as the 14th century. Arsenic eaters were robust people, usually from the lower classes of society. They ingested arsenic to be strong and healthy, to look rosy and to boost their sexual potency. Living off the mountains subjected them to physical hardship. Eating arsenic made them more resilient.

Simon Brugner lives and works in Vienna. Brugner is interested in research-based photography projects with a strong historical background, utilizing archival material as well as contemporary photography. He is specifically ­interested in the question of how the forgotten past forms our present. He obtained a master’s ­degree in media theory from the Technical University of Vienna (thesis: “On reality in the age of digital photography”). In 2014 Brugner was ­accepted for the Anzenberger Masterclass (­Vienna; with e.g. Martin Parr, Rob Hornstra, ­Cristina de Middel) and since then selected to take part in several workshops (with Corinne Noordenbos, Lara Almárcegui, RVB Books). In 2016 he was rewarded with a scholarship for promising young artists by the Austrian Federal Ministry for Arts and Culture.

Otabind softcover in vinyl dustcover, 144 Pages, 20.5×30cm
Published by: The Eriskay Connection