Wolfgang Tillmans presents abstract camera-less photographs and fax-based works in first US museum exhibition at PS1

The exhibition 'Freedom From The Known' by Wolfgang Tillmans was showcased at P.S.1 Contemporary Art Center in Long Island City, New York, from February 26, 2006, to May 29, 2006. This event marked the first museum exhibition in the United States for the London-based artist, originally from Germany, featuring large abstract photographs reaching heights of ten feet. These unique, camera-less pieces were crafted by manipulating chromogenic C print paper with light in a darkroom, without the use of negatives. A notable work, 'it's only love give it away,' featured sharp black lines set against delicate purple hues. Unlike his previous informal gallery displays, where images were simply taped to walls, the photographs at P.S.1 were elegantly framed or placed in plexiglass boxes. Tillmans contrasted these grand prints with small photocopies of his work and a xeroxed newspaper article, highlighting differences in scale and media. Another section showcased the 'Empire' series, including 'Empire (Punk),' which evolved from a faxed portrait to a high-resolution C print. This series elevated low-quality photographic reproduction methods, such as faxing, into the realm of fine art. The exhibition highlighted Tillmans's analytical approach, with abstraction stemming from a youthful interest in astronomy, and showcased his enduring fascination with photographic materiality and the relationship between iconography and abstraction throughout the display.