World-famous photographer Andreas Gursky, known for his large-format photographs that command record prices at auction, has revealed his pragmatic approach to contemporary art by incorporating smartphone images into his current London exhibition. The 70-year-old German artist, widely regarded as one of the most significant contemporary photographers of our time, recently shared insights about his evolving creative process and willingness to embrace modern technology.
In a candid interview, Gursky explained his refreshing perspective on mixing traditional and digital photography methods. "When I work on a piece for months, sometimes years, I find it refreshing to also photograph with the iPhone in between," he stated. "I do that often anyway." This approach demonstrates the artist's adaptability and openness to different photographic tools, regardless of their perceived artistic status.
The inclusion of smartphone photography in his prestigious exhibition stems from a spontaneous moment of artistic inspiration. While working on his current London show, a folded towel accidentally fell into a water-filled bathtub, creating an unexpectedly compelling visual composition. "It looked so strange that I immediately photographed it," Gursky recalled. This iPhone image now holds a place of honor in the exhibition, with the artist emphasizing, "It is very important to me."
Gursky's career has been marked by his distinctive large-scale photographs that often depict contemporary life, architecture, and landscapes with extraordinary detail and perspective. As a former professor of Fine Arts at the Düsseldorf Art Academy, he has influenced countless students and fellow artists throughout his distinguished career. His works regularly appear in major museums and galleries worldwide, commanding significant attention from collectors and art enthusiasts alike.
This embrace of smartphone technology represents a broader shift in the art world, where traditional boundaries between professional and amateur photography continue to blur. Gursky's decision to feature an iPhone photograph alongside his meticulously crafted large-format works suggests that artistic merit lies not in the equipment used, but in the photographer's vision and ability to capture meaningful moments, regardless of the medium employed.
