Christer Strömholm is recognised as one of the major figures of 20th century European photography. Strömholm captured his surroundings in black-and-white images that display his integrity, understated humour and a highly personal aesthetic. With an unmistakable sensitivity to human suffering, based on his personal experience, he took photography in a new direction. Sean O'Hagan, writing in The Guardian, has described him "as the father of Swedish photography both for his abiding influence and for his role as a teacher." Les amies de Place Blanche raises profound issues about sexuality and gender; and, in Strömholm’s own words, “it is about obtaining the freedom to choose one's own life and identity.” Strömholm’s work has inspired many generations of photographers, though he did not become known to the broader public until 1986, with a major exhibition at Moderna Museet in Stockholm. Stömholm died in 2002.