Gerhard Richter

About

Gerhard Richter is a renowned German painter and photographer, born on February 9, 1932, in Dresden. He is celebrated for his diverse artistic practice, which spans both abstract and photorealistic works. Richter's early career began with realist training at the Dresden Hochschule für Bildende Künste, but he soon evolved to explore more progressive styles after visiting Documenta II in 1959. This experience influenced his shift towards abstraction and his eventual move to West Germany in 1961. Richter's oeuvre is characterized by a continuous exploration of the relationship between painting and photography. He often uses photographs as the basis for his paintings, incorporating elements of chance and abstraction. His notable works include photo-paintings from the 1960s and abstract pieces created using a squeegee. Richter has exhibited globally, including major retrospectives at MoMA and Tate Modern. He is widely regarded as one of the most important contemporary artists, known for his innovative techniques and profound impact on modern art.