Gay pop art

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For Pop artists like Andy Warhol it was precisely this camp sensibility or persona that generated their kitschy images and objects, and made space for reinventing the body itself. At a time when camp was essentially a synonym for gay, Sontag declared ‘being’ and identity as a fluid and liberatory performance. No longer confined to coded symbolism or covert expression, gay pride began to blaze through the art world in bold, unflinching forms.

Over the next six decades, LGBTQ+ artists harnessed the power of visibility to challenge oppression, celebrate desire, mourn loss, and imagine futures beyond shame. From the pioneering brushstrokes of gay artists to the groundbreaking works of gay painters, as well as the innovative expressions of queer artists, this article illuminates the lives and artistic legacies of some of the most renowned figures in the realm of art who have proudly embraced their LGBTQ+ identities.

Explore Andy Warhol's life as a Pop Art and gay icon. See how his art and identity shaped his legacy and still inspire queer creatives today. Discover the lives of 15 LGBTQ+ artists and their art, much of which you can see at the National Gallery. From his s Boy Book drawings that lovingly depicted the sensuous male form to his poignant self-portraits in drag in the s, Warhol openly expressed his queer identity in life and art, even when homosexuality was criminalized and suppressed in the United States.

Learn more about Warhol's life. We celebrate free expression and strive to be an inclusive institution where diverse perspectives can coexist. Prom is often considered a rite of passage and creates memories that last a lifetime. Prom is open to young people ages 13—20, and it is planned by a youth committee.

We are a destination for contemporary queer performance. The museum annually hosts TQ Live! We also offer a free seven-week School of Drag workshop, where youth ages 13—19 can learn about the history, culture, and practice of drag and gender-bending performance. The workshop series culminates in a showcase with youth and adult performers. To learn more about School of Drag and how to apply, visit our Teens page.

Andy Warhol, Torso Double , ca. Friday, August 15, , 6 — p. Exhibitions Events Calendar Sound Series. Biography The Collection Research Publications. Store Donate. Today's hours: 10 a. Search Search Search. Search Search Search Close. Visiting the Museum We celebrate free expression and strive to be an inclusive institution where diverse perspectives can coexist.

Queer Performance We are a destination for contemporary queer performance. Image Gallery. Carousel controls: Previous Slide. Next Slide. Previous Slide. School of Drag Showcase Friday, August 15, , 6 — p. More Resources Community Teens Series.