World-renowned filmmaker, artist, and visionary David Lynch has died at the age of 78. Lynch was known for his groundbreaking work in cinema and television, leaving behind a legacy that has profoundly shaped modern storytelling and the surrealist aesthetic in contemporary art. ConsequenceSound reports that since having to re-locate his home due to the recent L.A. wildfires, Lynch had “took a turn for the worst.” The filmmakers had been battling emphysema since 2020.

Born on January 20, 1946, in Missoula, Montana, Lynch began his career in the art world before transitioning to film. His feature debut, Eraserhead (1977), became a cult classic, heralding his unique style of blending surrealism with deeply emotional and often unsettling storytelling. He went on to direct such acclaimed films as Blue Velvet (1986), Mulholland Drive (2001), and The Elephant Man (1980), the latter earning him an Academy Award nomination.

Lynch was also celebrated for his groundbreaking television series Twin Peaks (1990–1991; 2017), which redefined the genre and inspired a generation of creators.

Beyond film and TV, Lynch was a prolific painter, musician, and advocate for transcendental meditation. His enigmatic and dreamlike approach to art and life earned him a devoted following worldwide.

Fans and fellow artists have flooded social media with tributes, celebrating Lynch’s genius and the profound impact of his work. His contributions to art and culture will remain timeless.