Born in Liverpool, England, Tony Cragg moved to Germany in 1977, where he has maintained his studio practice for several decades. He emerged as a significant figure in the contemporary art scene during the late 20th century, gaining recognition for his innovative use of found objects and industrial materials to create intricate, organic structures.

His signature work often involves the manipulation of materials such as steel, bronze, and glass into layered, undulating shapes that suggest geological or biological processes. By pushing the physical limits of his chosen media, Cragg investigates the intersection of natural forms and man-made environments.

Cragg continues to be a central figure in international contemporary art, with recent presentations highlighting his ongoing exploration of material structure. In 2026, he is featured in a dual-artist presentation at TEFAF New York, where his work from the Incident series is showcased alongside the paintings of Sean Scully.