Presentation of works in memory of Thomas Billhardt (1937–2025)

On display are both iconic and rarely shown motifs, including photographs from Billhardt's famous Alexanderplatz series and his impressive Vietnam photographs. His works not only document historical events, but also reflect his extraordinary ability to portray people in the context of contemporary history.

A particular highlight of the exhibition is the photograph of the Rolling Stones concert at the Berlin Waldbühne in 1965, which impressively captures the charged atmosphere of the time. Also on display are humorous snapshots of everyday life in the GDR at Alexanderplatz and touching portraits of children in air-raid shelters in Vietnam – testimonies to the consequences of war that, despite all the drama, always retain a hopeful look. Another impressive work is the photograph of the New Year's Eve celebration at the Berlin Wall in 1989, which symbolises the historic awakening and euphoria of the fall of the Wall.

Thomas Billhardt's works are not only visual testimonies of the times, but also tell of social change, emotions and formative events of the 20th century. The exhibition pays tribute to his unique view of the world and at the same time fulfils his wish to focus on the positive and forward-looking character of his work.

About Thomas Billhardt (1937–2025)

Thomas Billhardt began his training in photography at the age of 14 under the tutelage of his mother. Throughout his life, he devoted himself to photography with inexhaustible curiosity and deep commitment. He was always looking for the authentic moment, the truth and the story behind the images.

His reportages and portraits not only made the world visible, but tangible. He captured people and events in over 50 countries, especially those who often went unheard in the world's crisis regions. Billhardt achieved international fame primarily through his iconic images of the Vietnam War, which are still considered impressive contemporary documents today.

Thomas Billhardt was much more than a photographer – he was a chronicler of humanity, a storyteller with a camera. His photographic legacy is owned by CAMERA WORK AG.

About CAMERA WORK

CAMERA WORK, founded in Berlin in 1997, is one of the world's leading galleries for fine art photography. The name refers to the tradition of great photographic artists, and since its foundation, the gallery has pursued the goal of presenting both renowned names in the history of photography and outstanding contemporary artists.