Full Breakdown
Wolfgang Tillmans' "Keep Movin’" Exhibition at Regen Projects
2/18/2026, 4:27:00 AM
Overview of the Exhibition
German photographer Wolfgang Tillmans is currently showcasing his exhibition titled "Keep Movin’" at Regen Projects in Los Angeles, marking his tenth exhibition in the city since the mid-1990s. The exhibition, which runs through March 1, features a diverse array of works that blend fine art with elements of street culture, including portraits, collages, and camera-less images. Tillmans, who is also an electronic musician, is known for his unique ability to navigate between the realms of contemporary art and popular music.
Artistic Approach and Themes
Tillmans' artistic practice is characterized by an open-ended exploration of various subjects, including human sexuality and nature. He intentionally avoids confining his work to specific categories or series, stating, “I’m not seeking them out.” His recent visit to the Mt. Wilson Observatory reflects his long-standing interest in astronomy, culminating in a large-scale print titled "Flight Honolulu to Guam," which depicts a star field above the clouds. This theme of stargazing recurs throughout his work, providing a grounding experience that connects humanity to the cosmos.
Career Milestones
Tillmans gained prominence early in his career by photographing for the British street style magazine i-D, capturing both famous and lesser-known figures while documenting club life and gay culture. His first book, published in 1995, showcased a distinctive visual style that emphasized naturalness over dramatic lighting. In 2000, he became the first photographer and non-British artist to win the prestigious Turner Award. His work has been featured in major retrospectives at institutions such as the Pompidou Centre in Paris and the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.
Exhibition Layout and Presentation
The "Keep Movin’" exhibition is notable for its unconventional presentation. Works are displayed in a variety of shapes and sizes, with large prints hanging alongside smaller, unframed images. Tillmans emphasizes that the size of a piece does not dictate its importance, stating, “The biggest may not be the most important, and the smallest might be overlooked.” This approach reflects his desire to present his work in a manner that allows each piece to speak for itself, free from external signifiers of value.
Conceptual Works and Social Commentary
Among the exhibition's significant pieces is "Memorial for the Victims of Organized Religion II," which features 48 dark-hued photographs intended to honor those harmed by religious intolerance. Tillmans expresses a complex relationship with spirituality, acknowledging his positive experiences with religion while also critiquing organized religion's influence on governance. He articulates a distrust of religious authority, stating, “I find it incredibly immodest for humans to tell other humans what God wants.”
Official Statements & Responses
Tillmans describes his artistic endeavors in music as integral to his overall practice, emphasizing that he approaches music creation with the same seriousness as photography. He notes, “I’m not doing a photograph to be peak popular in two months’ time,” highlighting his commitment to creating work that endures over time.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I see my work evolve more in evolutions, rather than in revolutions,” — Wolfgang Tillmans, Photographer
- “It gave me a sense of not being lonely, seeing the infinite sky and universe,” — Wolfgang Tillmans, Photographer
- “But over the years I’ve become ever more distrustful of organized religions and seeing the role of religion in government. I find it incredibly immodest for humans to tell other humans what God wants.” — Wolfgang Tillmans, Photographer
- “This is part of my work. I’m doing it the same way that I’m doing a photograph. I’m not doing a photograph to be peak popular in two months’ time,” — Wolfgang Tillmans, Photographer
Wolfgang Tillmans' "Keep Movin’" exhibition at Regen Projects encapsulates his multifaceted artistic vision, bridging the gap between fine art and contemporary culture while inviting viewers to engage with the complexities of human experience.
