Living Histories: Queer Views and Old Masters

Living Histories: Queer Views and Old Masters is a captivating volume showcasing the work of four New York-based artists, who present new pieces in dialogue with renowned paintings from The Frick Collection, particularly focusing on issues of gender and queer identity often overlooked in narratives of early modern European art. The idea for this exhibition originated from the loan of four masterpieces by Vermeer, Holbein, and Rembrandt to exhibitions, prompting the commission of four new works by Jenna Gribbon, Doron Langberg, Toyin Ojih Odutola, and Salman Toor to replace them. Alongside these commissioned pieces, other works by these artists are also included. The book features written contributions from Jonathan Anderson, Jessica Bell Brown, Christopher Lew, Jason Reynolds, Legacy Russell, and Russell Tovey, adding diverse and rich perspectives to the exhibition.

Format: Hardback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 11 September 2023
Publisher: D Giles Ltd

Living Histories: Queer Views and Old Masters is an exhilarating volume showcasing the captivating artwork of four New York-based artists, each presenting a singular new piece in dialogue with renowned paintings from The Frick Collection, with a special focus on issues of gender and queer identity that have often been excluded from narratives of early modern European art. The idea of commissioning four works to be displayed at Frick Madison emerged when four masterpieces by Vermeer, Holbein, and Rembrandt were loaned to exhibitions. To replace these masterpieces, works by Jenna Gribbon, Doron Langberg, Toyin Ojih Odutola, and Salman Toor were commissioned, alongside other works by these artists.

This book is the culmination of the four New York artists' responses to the Frick's collection, as well as the conversations their work sparked. Written contributions are provided by Jonathan Anderson, Jessica Bell Brown, Christopher Lew, Jason Reynolds, Legacy Russell, and Russell Tovey.

SELLING POINTS:

Queer Art for the Old Masters: This book offers a unique perspective by merging the world of Old Masters with the vibrant realm of queer art. It aligns with a series of ongoing installations of works by contemporary LGBTQ+ artists, produced in response to selected works at the Frick.

Diverse and Rich Perspective: The contributions of artists, writers, and curators bring a diverse and rich perspective to the book, enhancing our understanding and appreciation of the artwork.

Featured Artists: Jenna Gribbon, Doron Langberg, Toyin Ojih Odutola, and Salman Toor are renowned artists who have each created captivating pieces that offer fresh interpretations of the Frick's collection. Their works allow us to see familiar works in new and intriguing ways.

Artistic Pairings: Doron Langberg's Lover is paired with Hans Holbein's Sir Thomas More, Jenna Gribbon's What Am I Doing Here? I Should Ask You the Same with Holbein's Thomas Cromwell, Salman Toor's Museum Boys with Johannes Vermeer's Officer and Laughing Girl, and Toyin Ojih Odutola's The Listener with Rembrandt's Self-Portrait. These pairings highlight the connections and contrasts between different artistic periods and styles.

45 Color Illustrations: The book is accompanied by 45 stunning color illustrations that further enhance our visual experience of the artwork and the historical context it represents.

Living Histories: Queer Views and Old Masters is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of art, gender, and identity, offering a fresh perspective on the Frick's collection and the broader world of art history. It is a must-read for art enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone interested in exploring the intersection of queer culture and art.

Weight: 490g
Dimension: 246 x 160 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913875398