Juergen Teller invites us into his intimacy at the Grand Palais Éphémère

"You know, Juergen, one day you will have an exhibition at the Grand Palais," his wife Dovile Drizyte had said. She was right. From December 16th to January 9th, 2024, German photographer Juergen Teller is taking over the Grand Palais Éphémère with his exhibition "I need to live," which is his most important one yet. In this enormous 10,000 m2 space, the area has been completely reimagined and divided into four sections by a wooden structure over 4 meters high. Over 800 pieces, both large and small, are hung on it, framed or simply pinned, showcasing the diversity of Teller's work. One area of the exhibition is dedicated to Teller's iconic portraits. From celebrities to everyday people, his ability to capture the essence of his subjects shines through in each photograph. Another section focuses on his fashion photography, showcasing his collaborations with renowned designers and publications. Moving along, visitors will encounter an area dedicated to Teller's landscapes. From majestic mountains to serene beaches, his photos transport viewers to different corners of the world, evoking a sense of wanderlust. Finally, the last section of the exhibition delves into Teller's personal life, revealing glimpses of his intimate relationships and everyday moments. As visitors walk through the exhibition, they are immersed in Teller's unique world, where each photograph tells a story. The combination of his raw, honest approach and his distinctive use of lighting and composition creates a captivating visual experience. With "I need to live," Juergen Teller invites everyone to join him on a journey through his rich and diverse body of work. So if you find yourself in Paris during this period, make sure to visit the Grand Palais Éphémère and immerse yourself in the joyful, thought-provoking world of Juergen Teller's photography.A unique and transgressive vision of the artist.

Father and Son, Bubenreuth, 2003 ©Juergen Teller

Speaking openly through photography

They are frank, they are striking, they are sometimes even disturbing. Juergen Teller's photos do not beat around the bush: from complete nudity to sometimes unflattering positions to capturing nature, the photographer's shots are daringly honest. In fact, from the very first photograph of the exhibition depicting Juergen Teller as a naked baby, captured from a low-angle shot, the tone is set.

Paradise XVIII, Musée du Louvre, Paris, 2009 ©Juergen Teller

A direct style that is unique to him and aims to illustrate the significant events of his life, both joyful and tragic. In his work, all bodies and profiles have their place, from children to the elderly. Like a cycle of life, the exhibition starts with the artist as a baby and also ends with photographs of a baby, his daughter this time. In his own photos, he doesn't hesitate to serve as a model, reflecting his introspection about himself, about identity, about family.

From family to fashion

He has been criticized for his particular style and his photographs that combine.serious and humorous. Yet, the biggest personalities in fashion and culture have passed in front of his lens. A smiling Agnès Varda, a Eve-dressed Vivienne Westwood, a faithful Karl Lagerfeld to his timeless black and white. A photographer with many hats, he has worked for numerous fashion campaigns and luxury brands throughout his 35-year career. Again, we recognize his unique touch, far from all norms and conventions. A singular way of perceiving the world, which disorients in the best possible way those who come to discover his work. Victoria Beckham, Legs, bag and shoes, Marc Jacobs Campaign Spring Summer 2008, Los Angeles, 2007 ©Juergen Tellerght: 400;">
Juerger Teller – I need to live
Grand Palais Éphémère
Place Joffre – 7e
Open every day from 10am to 7pm
Price: €15
More info