About Face: Stonewall, Revolt, and New Queer Art

A survey of 350 artworks by LGBTQ+ artists from the last 50 years, exploring how gender and sexual identity have been interwoven by artists contemporaneous to and since Stonewall.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2024
Publisher: Monacelli Press

A groundbreaking survey of 350 artworks by a diverse range of LGBTQ+ artists, many of whom are underappreciated and overlooked, from the past 50 years. While the Stonewall Riots are often seen as the catalyst for the gay rights movement, it is important to recognize that queer art and culture have been prevalent throughout history. In his book, "About Face," art historian and curator Jonathan D. Katz delves into this concept, presenting a captivating collection of works that intertwine historical threads and showcase how gender and sexual identity have been intricately woven by artists contemporaneous to and since Stonewall. Featuring over 350 artworks by over 40 LGBTQ+ artists from various nationalities and generations, accompanied by original texts by artists and scholars, "About Face" is not only visually stunning but also profoundly significant.

Introduction:
The Stonewall Riots, which took place in New York City in 1969, are widely recognized as the pivotal moment that marked the beginning of the gay rights movement. However, it is important to acknowledge that queer art and culture have been present throughout history, preceding the Stonewall events. In the book "About Face," art historian and curator Jonathan D. Katz explores this concept in depth, presenting a comprehensive survey of 350 artworks by a diverse range of LGBTQ+ artists, many of whom are underappreciated and overlooked.

Artistic Depictions of Gender and Sexual Identity:
Throughout history, artists have used their work to explore and challenge societal norms and expectations regarding gender and sexual identity. In the context of the LGBTQ+ community, artists have been particularly vocal about their experiences and struggles, creating a rich tapestry of artistic expressions. The artworks in "About Face" showcase a wide range of artistic styles and techniques, from traditional paintings and sculptures to contemporary installations and performance art.

Diverse Range of LGBTQ+ Artists:
The survey includes artworks by over 40 LGBTQ+ artists from various backgrounds and generations. These artists come from different countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, and represent a wide range of artistic styles and approaches. From established artists who have made significant contributions to the art world to emerging talents who are just beginning to gain recognition, the book showcases the diversity and richness of LGBTQ+ artistic expression.

Historical Threads and Connections:
One of the key themes of "About Face" is the interconnectedness of historical threads and the ways in which artists have responded to them. Katz highlights the ways in which artists have drawn inspiration from past movements and events, such as the civil rights movement and the feminist movement, and how they have adapted these influences to create their own unique artistic expressions.

Original Texts by Artists and Scholars:
In addition to the visual artwork, "About Face" includes original texts by artists and scholars that provide further insight into the themes and ideas explored in the book. These texts offer a deeper understanding of the historical context and the artistic motivations behind the works, allowing readers to gain a more nuanced appreciation of the art on display.

Significance of "About Face":
"About Face" is a groundbreaking book that challenges the traditional narratives surrounding LGBTQ+ art and culture. It provides a platform for underappreciated and overlooked artists to gain recognition and exposure, and it contributes to the broader understanding of gender and sexual identity in art and society culture.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, "About Face" is a must-read for anyone interested in art, history, and LGBTQ+ culture. It is a stunning collection of artworks that showcases the rich and diverse artistic expressions of LGBTQ+ artists from the past 50 years. Through its exploration of historical threads and connections, original texts by artists and scholars, and its commitment to promoting underappreciated and overlooked artists, the book offers a valuable contribution to the field of art history and culture.

Weight: 1924g
Dimension: 300 x 250 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781580936286