series of water towers, blast furnaces, coal mine tipples, industrial facades, and other vernacular industrial
architectural sites comprise an in-depth study of the intricate relationship between form and function, a
principle that has dominated modernity since the 1920s.
Their distinct signature style relies on a frontal depiction of a building or structure against a cloudless
sky. Using a large-format (film) view camera for absolute clarity and precision, each unit is centered in
the picture frame and printed in a neutral tone.The cool objectivity of the pictures recalls the dynamic
visual presentations of engineers. The prints were frequently arranged in grids, a standardized presentation
that facilitates a comparative analysis of form.
The Bechers taught at the Dusseldorf Academy of Art, in Germany, where they influenced Andreas
Gursky,Thomas Struth, Candida Hofer and Thomas Ruth. Since her husband’s death, Hilla Becher
has continued to photograph and exhibit their work.
