Bernd & Hilla Becher

This posthumous monograph explores the artistic journey of Bernd & Hilla Becher, highlighting their significant contributions to industrial photography.

This book serves as the first comprehensive, posthumous monograph and retrospective on the renowned duo, Bernd and Hilla Becher. Best known for their striking photographs of industrial structures across Europe and North America, the Bechers’ work spans over five decades, showcasing a unique perspective on industrial architecture. Their iconic images of water towers, gas tanks, and blast furnaces are presented not merely as photographs but as sculptural objects that invite viewers to reconsider the aesthetic qualities of these industrial forms.

Bernd & Hilla Becher delves deeper than the surface of their well-known Typologies. The volume includes Bernd’s early drawings and Hilla’s independent photographs, offering a more rounded view of their artistic journey. Readers will also find excerpts from their personal notes, sketchbooks, and journals, which provide valuable insights into their creative process and the conceptual foundations of their work. The book explores the Bechers’ relationship with deindustrialization and their lasting influence on contemporary photography.

Featuring an essay by celebrated cultural historian Lucy Sante and an interview with their son, Max Becher, this publication stands as an unparalleled examination of the Bechers’ art, life, and legacy. It is a must-read for anyone interested in photography or the evolution of industrial aesthetics, making it a significant addition to the study of modern art.