Wolfgang Tillmans (b. 1968, Remscheid, Germany) is a prominent photographer and contemporary artist known for his experimental approach to the medium. His work spans genres including portraiture, still life, abstraction, and social documentary, often reflecting both the aesthetic and political contexts surrounding issues like LGBTQ identity and community. In 2000, Tillmans became the first photographer and non-British artist to win the Turner Prize, further solidifying his influence in the art world.
Tillmans’s early career was marked by candid images of youth culture and club scenes in cities such as Hamburg, London, and Berlin, which established his reputation as a key observer of contemporary life. Over time, his practice expanded to include abstract works and unconventional exhibition formats, such as unframed photographs displayed with clips or tape. Tillmans’s impact continues through international exhibitions, advocacy for LGBTQ rights, and consistent innovation within photographic art.