HERIBERT
Heribert inspecting the frame he made for his DC-3 Model Aircraft he is starting to build
Passionate model airplane builder, retired toy repairman—and my neighbor. A photo essay.
Heribert is a passionate model airplane builder, a retired toy repairman—and my neighbor.
When I moved into my new apartment, I immediately noticed the model airplanes hanging from the ceiling in another apartment, visible from the street through a window. I was instantly curious and wanted to know more.
Once I found out which apartment it was, I rang the doorbell and met Heribert for the first time. After a few cups of coffee as well as cigarettes, I had established trust, and Heribert gave me an insight into his world.
Before his retirement, Heribert worked professionally as a toy repairman (repairing Nintendo consoles in the 90s that were sent in, among other things). Now, in retirement, he devotes himself to building model airplanes with the same care and precision.
We spent a lot of time together in his workshop, (which is essentially also his living space) and since 2022, I have been documenting his creative process with photos. This photo reportage aims to capture the passion and dedication he puts into each of his projects.
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Grinding the middle element of the fuselage, which will eventually merge with others to form the entire fuselage.
Testing if the rudders react to the inputs of the remote control.
Input channels for the remote control.
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Will above all - Heribert bends his arms so that he can place a cable properly.
Working on the details of this large project.
A view inside the fuselage.
Very soon, the elements will all join together.
Wiring the electrical circuits.
The back half on the plane, which spans, when fully assembled, 3,50 x 2,50 Meters. Barely fitting in side his living room.
Tightening a hard-to-reach screw.
