Thomas Kellner
Bridges

Thomas Kellner - Bridges from Black and White Architecture 1997 - 2005

The work of Thomas Kellner speaks to the dynamism that exists when we allow a whole to be greater than the sum of its parts. Kellner is famous for photographing international monuments. The contemporary German artist creates depictions of celebrated landmarks with 35mm filmstrips. The resulting works are playful and smart. They nod to art historical themes of collage, construction, and cataloging.

We have chosen three iconic bridges here. In a time of quarantine and isolation Thomas Kellner’s work is valuable reminder that a whole is formed of irreplaceable pieces.  Not only do these bridges join landmass, they act as symbols of physical connection. Kellner’s effective photograph of photographs are kaleidoscopic windows to a world we long for. We may not indulge in physical voyages or connections for some time, we can explore these windows to the world and feel an infinite connection to it and to each other.

To create this work, Thomas Kellner invented a method that is both systematic and open to “chance.” Kellner begins by composing a drawing of his subject. He then plots out a strategy for capture, and finally begins shooting. Kellner tends to establish a firm base for his works; to do this the ground or lower portions of his images are more direct and straight. Kellner reserves the energy and lyricism to enter as he works his way up through the composition; he will tip the camera to the right in one frame, to the left in another.

Thomas Kellner

42#15, San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge, 2004
11.2 x 13.58 in. Silver print | Edition of 10 | $990

40#28 New York, Brooklyn Bridge, 2003
13.7 x 10.4 in. Silver print | Edition of 10 10 | $3,000

14#12 London, Tower Bridge, 1999
8.2 x 8.9 in. Silverprint | Edition of 10 | $2,000