German-born Klaus Tiedge
has been a prominent figure in the field of
commercial photography for more than 20
years, having worked in numerous countries
including India, Japan, Brazil and the USA.
In 2001 Klaus moved to South Africa and
settled down in Cape Town taking full
advantage of the a thriving fashion industry
and optimal conditions that the region is
renowned for.
In 2008, Tiedge decided to shelve his
commercial endeavors and pursue his passion
for fine art photography as he turned his
attention to the
beauty and diversity of
the African continent. Embracing the “modern
digital darkroom”, Klaus has successfully
traversed the boundaries between painting
and photography. His editioned wildlife
photographs have a unique stylized quality
to them. Tiedge displays the distinct
ability to give equal attention to the
animals and the environment in which they
are captured in. His impressions portray the
animal as if it is being photographed for
the front cover of a glossy magazine.
Qualities of master lighting, brilliant
composition and technical perfection are
emblematic of an artist who has obviously
done his time in the commercial arena.
Besides his successful wildlife imagery,
Tiedge is also kept busy with other
projects. In 2010 he completed a series of
stylized “on location” portraits of the
Himba and Zemba people in North Eastern
Namibia and an ageless portrayal of single
baobab trees.
Of late, Tiedge has been devoting a
significant amount of time to going on
safari in Africa as he continues to document
its diverse people, animals and vistas.
Artist statement: I was always been driven
by curiosity and the desire to travel the
world. My fascination is underpinned with
questions such as: “what is life like for
others and how do other people live on our
planet, how diverse is nature and what else
is out there and beyond? ” Pursuing answers
to these questions has led me on numerous
photo trips to India, the Philippines,
Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, Mexico, Australia,
USA, Brazil and Ecuador. The lens becomes my
eyes and I literally devour my experiences
and document them forever.
Finally, in 2001, a photo trip brought me to
South Africa. I liked it so much that I
moved here
with my wife Sandra and we decided to make
Cape Town the center of our lives which we
now share with two children.
My curiosity for Africa hasn’t abated as I
find myself travelling more than ever.
Whether portraying her people, animals or
landscapes, I find that Africa is good for
my soul. It is rich, genuine and satisfying.
I pray I do her justice.