Wolfgang
Tillmans

Wolfgang Tillmans has become synonymous with capturing the seemingly mundane aspects of life and elevating them to high art. In the early 1990s, he gained recognition for his candid photographs that epitomised youth culture and the LGBTQ+ scene. With an eye for the intimate and the immediate, Tillmans' work transcends the ordinary, offering a raw and unfiltered perspective on the world. His images, often presented in a non-hierarchical installation style, challenge traditional photography norms and encourage viewers to engage with the fluidity of contemporary life.

In 2000, Tillmans made history by becoming the first photographer and the first non-British artist to receive the prestigious Turner Prize. His win was a testament to his innovative approach to photography, which includes a mix of genres and subjects ranging from portraiture to landscape, from astrophotography to still life. The Turner Prize accolade cemented Tillmans' status as a transformative figure in the art world, breaking down barriers between photographic disciplines and other forms of contemporary art.

Tillmans’ exhibition at The Tate Modern, titled 2017, was a powerful response to the global upheavals and political changes of the time. It showcased his belief in the power of human connection and the importance of a collective identity. His works often address themes of globalisation, and he has actively campaigned against the UK's departure from the EU, highlighting the role of artists as social commentators and agents of change.