SPARTANAT: Coffee Table Book sounds so cozy. A coffee table book from RAWFORCES with a man on the cover, loading his G36 at sunrise. So honestly, what is it about?
RAWFORCES: The second edition of "GERMAN ISSUED", as you describe it, conveys a unique and exciting aesthetic: It is a so-called Coffee Table Book, which, despite its cozy name, aims at a combination of military themes and artistic representation. The man with the G36 at sunrise represents a sort of visual homage to soldiers and their tough reality. The core is about authentically portraying soldiers in their service, but with aesthetic sophistication. With Volume 2, we want to provide a deeper insight into the reality of our armed forces. This way, an impression of the daily activities and feelings of our soldiers can be generated. In this way, we can pay them a form of respect in our own way.
SPARTANAT: Excellent images, good texts. German soldiers who also look like soldiers. Do you believe aesthetics and service go together?
RAWFORCES: When asked if aesthetics and service go together: Yes, they certainly can. Soldiers often find themselves in intense, dangerous situations, but there is also a visual strength, a physicality that can be aesthetically captured. By combining excellent images and good texts, a mixture of respect and art is created. One could say that it is a form of "Heroic," which points to the service and sacrifice of soldiers without romanticizing the brutality of war. However, one should not be too blinded by the aesthetics in my edits and the book. The service, the mission of soldiers always comes first. Aesthetics take a back seat when it comes to mission accomplishment.
"In a country where soldiers often receive little public appreciation, the GERMAN ISSUED Coffee Table Book series aims to show solidarity and social responsibility."
SPARTANAT: "Under the Sword" and "Brotherhood" are good. But they always sound like American special forces, because here with us it's somehow difficult. Or is it necessary?
RAWFORCES: Indeed, titles like "Under the Sword" and "Brotherhood" remind one of American special forces and their very media portrayal. In Germany, such terms do not have the same resonance because the role of the military is seen differently here. Nevertheless, one could argue that there is also a need in Germany to make the achievements of the Bundeswehr more visible. It does not require glorification of special forces, but an acknowledgment of service and camaraderie could certainly have a place here as well. At this point, I must highlight my friend Christian Gerstner, who has dedicated his book and years in the service of the KSK to the title "Under the Sword." This title seems quite fitting to me, as his service, as the KSK badge conveys, took place under the sword, and this symbolism represents the ultimate goal of many aspirants.
RAWFORCES: In my project RAWFORCES, it was never about profit for me. It was about creating something that my target audience could identify with. Whether it's this book or the merchandise I produce – if I don't feel it, I won't do it. This is exactly why the proceeds of this book belong nowhere else than in the hands of organizations that care for the concerns and problems of our armed forces ("FORCES"). Especially in a country where soldiers often receive little public appreciation, I want to use the GERMAN ISSUED Coffee Table Book series to show solidarity and social responsibility. It's about more than just an artwork – it's about helping people who have sacrificed a lot through their service. This help can be multifaceted – whether it's in monetary terms or simply giving people a platform. There are so many stories to tell through words and images – far away from the official narrative.
The book can still be pre-ordered through the distributor BROTHERS IN ARMS (BIA) at this following link until September 15th. SPARTANAT recommendation! Get the book.
Stay updated and enjoy a variety of edits beyond the print version through www.rawforces.com or on Instagram
About RAWFORCES:
RAWFORCES is a personal project that has developed from a passion and fascination for the military. As a child, this enthusiasm was often viewed critically in Germany, as playing with military items was unusual. Nevertheless, the fascination persisted and ultimately led to the creation of RAWFORCES.
What started as a hobby evolved into a comprehensive project that connects various subcultures and celebrates the aesthetics and lifestyle of the German armed forces. Without formal training in digital design, I wanted to create a platform that stands out through opulent image editing and aesthetically pleasing presentations. The idea was never to sell commercial products, but to create a community that portrays the German military in a modern and creative way.
With the support of partners like "Brother in Arms" and contributions from many individuals, both public and anonymous, a book series was created that portrays the German armed forces in a unique and visually appealing way. I want to emphasize that the project is a collective effort that is not about personal fame, but about honoring the achievements and bravery of those who serve.
