Meaning: Cindy Sherman, an American photographer and film director, is renowned for her work in which she uses herself as the subject in a variety of different personas and scenarios. The quote, "The still must tease with the promise of a story the viewer of it itches to be told," encapsulates Sherman's approach to photography and the power of storytelling within her work.

Sherman's photographs often present enigmatic and compelling narratives, inviting viewers to engage with the images and imagine the stories behind them. The use of the word "tease" suggests that Sherman's images offer just enough information to pique the viewer's curiosity, but leave much to the imagination. This approach encourages viewers to become active participants in the creation of the narrative, as they are compelled to fill in the gaps and interpret the scenes before them.

Sherman's ability to evoke a sense of intrigue and invitation within her still images is a testament to her skill as a visual storyteller. Through her use of costume, makeup, and staging, she creates characters and situations that are both familiar and enigmatic, allowing viewers to project their own interpretations onto the images. This open-ended quality is what makes Sherman's work so captivating and enduring.

Moreover, by stating that the viewer "itches to be told" the story, Sherman acknowledges the fundamental human desire for narrative and meaning. Her photographs tap into this universal longing for storytelling, prompting viewers to engage with the images on a deeper level. By creating images that are rich with narrative potential, Sherman invites viewers to immerse themselves in the worlds she presents and to consider the stories that lie beneath the surface.

In addition to the narrative aspect, Sherman's quote also speaks to the power of the still image as a medium for storytelling. Despite the absence of motion or sound, Sherman's photographs are able to convey a sense of drama, emotion, and intrigue. Through careful composition, expression, and visual cues, she is able to communicate complex narratives within a single frame, demonstrating the evocative potential of the photographic medium.

Sherman's quote also raises questions about the relationship between the artist, the image, and the viewer. By suggesting that the still image should "tease" the viewer, she highlights the active role of the audience in interpreting and engaging with the work. This idea challenges traditional notions of passive viewing and emphasizes the participatory nature of experiencing art. Sherman's images are not static or fixed; rather, they invite ongoing interpretation and dialogue, ensuring that each viewer brings their own perspective and experiences to the images they encounter.

In conclusion, Cindy Sherman's quote encapsulates her approach to photography as a medium for storytelling and invites viewers to engage with her work on a deeper level. By teasing the viewer with the promise of a story, she creates images that are open to interpretation and invite active participation. Through her evocative and enigmatic narratives, Sherman demonstrates the enduring power of the still image to captivate, provoke, and inspire.