“Water Towers” is a notable artwork by Bernd and Hilla Becher, created in 1988. This piece, rendered in gelatin silver print, is a prime example of conceptual art and falls within the photo and architecture genre of artistic works.
The artwork presents a grid arrangement of nine distinct black-and-white photographs, each depicting a water tower. The water towers, varying in design and form, are characterized by their industrial and utilitarian architecture. The photographs are taken with a uniform aesthetic, with each water tower centered within its respective frame, emphasizing the structural forms and details. The crisp, clear imagery underlines the Bechers’ methodical approach to documenting industrial structures, conveying a sense of uniformity and meticulousness. Despite their functional nature, the towers appear almost sculptural, reflecting the central themes of form, utility, and repetition in the Bechers’ oeuvre.
