Dubbed “the Andy Warhol of his generation” by Sotheby’s, Tyler Shields is not just a photographer; he’s a cultural disruptor, a master provocateur, and a storyteller who turns the ordinary into the extraordinary. We are thrilled to announce that Shields is now part of the Preiss Fine Arts portfolio, joining a lineup of artists who push the boundaries of creativity. With his audacious vision and a flair for the cinematic, Shields brings a fresh and fearless energy that fits perfectly into our commitment to showcasing trailblazing artistry.
Tyler Shields, Prada Popcorn, 2012
From daring beginnings as a world-champion inline skater, Shields has built a career defined by his fearless dedication. This same energy and risk-taking spirit permeate his art, where themes of power, decadence, and iconoclasm meet hyper-realistic, meticulously crafted compositions. He’s not afraid to challenge societal norms, and his work often feels like a playful rebellion against convention.
Tyler Shields, Python Birkin, 2016
A snake coiled around a python-skin handbag—both seductive and dangerous—highlights Shields’ knack for creating tension between the natural and the material. “Python Birkin” is a conversation piece, steeped in symbolism and Shields’ trademark irreverence.
“If someone tells me something’s impossible to shoot, that’s exactly what I want to shoot.” – Tyler Shields
Tyler Shields, Roadside Assistance, 2022
With “Roadside Assistance“, Tyler Shields delivers a provocative commentary on consumerism, gender roles, and the glamorization of excess. With a luxury handbag casually discarded alongside a wrench, Shields blends the worlds of opulence and manual labor into a surreal, almost absurd tableau. The piece toes the line between high art and controversy, inviting us to explore its subtext: Is this a critique of material culture? A commentary on societal expectations of women? Or simply a playful provocation?
“I don’t create controversy. I create images. The controversy comes from people’s reactions.” – Tyler Shields
As with much of Shields’ work, “Roadside Assistance” doesn’t just demand attention—it sparks a conversation, leaving interpretation in the hands of the viewer.
Tyler Shields, Gator Birkin II, 2012
“Gator Birkin II” is a striking tableau where primal nature and human decadence collide. At the center of the image, a crocodile looms over a coveted Hermès Birkin bag, its textured skin echoing the material of the luxury item—a stark reminder of the natural origins of what we deem exclusive and desirable. The hands clutching the bag add a layer of tension, as if attempting to protect this symbol of opulence from its rightful owner. As provocative as it is captivating, “Gator Birkin II” challenges the viewer to confront the uncomfortable relationship between luxury and the wild forces that inspire it.
Tyler Shields, Lipstick Cigarette, 2022
Tyler Shields crafts images that exude both sophistication and subversion. In “Lipstick Cigarette” the lipstick, a symbol of femininity and allure, is transformed into something dangerous, almost weapon-like, with its smoky trail suggesting both indulgence and destruction. The stark contrast between the bold red, the smooth black leather, and the ethereal smoke creates a striking visual tension. The piece invites viewers to question societal constructs of beauty and power, layering glamour with rebellion in a way only Shields can.
This Artwork is more than a stunning image—it’s a provocative statement on the duality of allure and danger, seduction and defiance. With its cinematic flair and sharp symbolism, this photograph is quintessential Tyler Shields: bold, beautiful, and impossible to ignore.
Tyler Shields, Take-Out Pearls, 2021
“Comfort isn’t interesting. The best art makes people uncomfortable enough to think.” – Tyler Shields
In Shields’ world, elegance and absurdity coexist. Pearls spilling from a Chinese takeout box feel as ridiculous as they do glamorous. This piece reminds us of the tension between throwaway culture and timeless beauty, and Shields delivers it with his trademark wit.
Tyler Shields, Champagne High Heel, 2014
Tyler Shields reminds us that nothing is off-limits—not in art, not in life. His work is fearless, his vision unmatched, and his presence in the Preiss Fine Arts family a testament to our commitment to showcasing the art that shapes our time. We can’t wait for you to experience his world of danger, beauty, and audacity!
Tyler Shields, Mona Lisa Make-Up, 2018
Shields isn’t just a photographer; he’s a visionary whose images redefine what photography can be, turning photoshoots into theatrical productions that push both his art and his subjects to their limits. From working with live lions to burning luxury goods, every detail in his work is carefully crafted to provoke emotion, make a statement, and challenge conventions. At PREISS FINE ARTS, we are proud to represent artists who create impact, and Tyler Shields perfectly aligns with our portfolio of bold, boundary-breaking voices. His work speaks to the cultural zeitgeist, unafraid to critique, subvert, and provoke thought. By introducing Shields to our collectors and audiences, we’re not just showcasing an artist—we’re amplifying a movement that invites deeper engagement with art, making it feel alive, relevant, and undeniably exciting.