Renowned Magnum photographer Thomas Hoepker is dead
German photographer Thomas Hoepker took iconic images that went around the world - for instance, of boxing legend Muhammad Ali or the burning towers of the WTC. He worked for photo agency Magnum, for "Stern" and "Geo". Now he is dead.
The internationally renowned German photographer Thomas Hoepker is dead. He died at the age of 88, "peacefully", as his agency Magnum Photos announced.
Hoepker is the creator of some of the most famous photographs of the past decades. His iconic 9/11 image caused controversy: A seemingly relaxed group of young people are sitting together on a bench by the blue East River in New York. Behind them in Manhattan, dark smoke plumes rise towards the sky above the metropolis following the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center.
Other well-known images by Hoepker include portraits of boxing legend Muhammad Ali: Ali with his fist inches from the lens, jumping in front of a skyline or eating ice cream in bed - Hoepker was right there. He also photographed artist Roy Lichtenstein in his studio or captured the energy of New York and the mood in America during the 60s.
From Munich to the World
Hoepker was born in Munich in 1936. He studied art, history, and archaeology. However, his passion was photography, ever since his grandfather bought him a camera as a 14th birthday present. Before completing his studies, he was hired by the "Münchner Illustrierte". In 1964, he joined the legendary photo agency Magnum. From 2003 to 2006, he was even its President. In 1976, Hoepker moved to New York, where he worked as the visual chief for the magazine "Geo". His images inspired and were exhibited all over the world. In 2022, the documentary film "Dear Memories" was released, in which the Hoepker, suffering from Alzheimer's, embarks on a final road trip through the USA before it's too late.
Hoepker explained his approach to photography in a 2007 interview with the German Press Agency as follows: "One must also express one's opinion and not just compose beautifully. The photographer as an author is important. He should not only represent and register what happens, but develop a viewpoint towards his subject. Either you hate it or you love it, but lukewarm is always uninteresting."
Hoepker's iconic photographs, including those of Muhammad Ali, have been a integral part of entertainment history. His imagery, such as the relaxed group on the East River during the 9/11 attacks, have sparked dialogue and controversy.
Tragically, the world of photography has lost another icon with the death of Thomas Hoepker. His legacy will continue to entertain and inspire generations to come, as his work continues to be exhibited worldwide.
