1912
Born on 25 April in Krefeld-Uerdingen
1938
Began studying law in Cologne
1939–1945
Served in the Second World War. During his posting in France, he produced his first drawings and watercolours. It was during this period that he decided to become an artist after the war
1943
Awarded a doctorate in law (Dr. jur.) from the University of Bonn
1946
First exhibition at the Kaiser Wilhelm Museum in Krefeld
1953–1959
Development of a distinctive abstract visual language – from informal painting to material-based works
1957
Resigned from his position as a judge to devote himself entirely to art
1960
First solo exhibitions in Krefeld and London
From 1961
Turned to light, mirrors and lenses as artistic media. This led to the creation of the characteristic light and concave mirror objects that brought Adolf Luther international renown
1970s
Realisation of significant light installations and art-in-architecture projects, including for the Olympic Park in Munich and the Tonhalle in Düsseldorf
1979
Awarded the title of professor by the State of North Rhine-Westphalia
1989
Founding of the Adolf Luther Foundation in Krefeld and award of the Order of Merit of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia
1990
Appointed an honorary citizen of the city of Krefeld. Adolf Luther died on 20 September in Krefeld