Wolfgang Tillmans

In Conor Donlon, Wolfgang Tillmans (born 1968) chronicles East Londons art scene and nightlife of the early 2000s, as well as his friendship with collaborator and artist Conor Donlon. The book sees Donlons appearance and style changing, as well as his backdrops: a 2003 demonstration against George W. Bushs state visit; a picnic at the park after an opening at Tillmans exhibition space Between Bridges; the bright yellow walls of Tillmans and Donlons home; long-gone LGBT clubs The Ghetto and The Joiners Arm; and quieter moments spent talking in the studio and around town. Tillmans photographs are at once intimate and emblematic of a flourishing arts era, where both artists work gained momentum. The Guardians culture editor Alex Needham introduces the work with an essay about Donlons initial role as Tillmans assistant, contextualizing the artists collaboration and the inception of London independent bookstore Donlon Books in 2008.