Leigh Bowery’s legacy as a performance artist and fashion designer is marked by his resistance to categorisation, famously stating, “If you label me, you negate me.” Despite his lack of mainstream recognition, Bowery’s influence remains impactful; he collaborated with notable artists like Lucian Freud and Marina Abramović. His extravagant styles continue to inspire fashion designers today, particularly within L.G.B.T.Q. culture, where he is frequently celebrated.

Tate Modern’s upcoming exhibition, “Leigh Bowery!”, aims to showcase his eclectic artistry and journey from suburban Australia to London’s vibrant gay club scene of the 1980s. Opening on February 27 and running until August 31, the exhibition encapsulates Bowery’s transformative persona, described by Boy George as “modern art on legs.” Boy George portrayed Bowery in the Broadway musical “Taboo,” highlighting his significant cultural impact.

Though Bowery passed away at just 33, his remarkable performances included hosting the notorious club night that inspired the musical. The Tate Modern exhibition offers an opportunity for a wider audience to appreciate Bowery’s unique contributions to art and fashion beyond traditional labelling.

The exhibition at Tate Modern will provide greater visibility and understanding of Leigh Bowery’s work, reinforcing his status as a cultural icon. It accentuates his refusal to be confined by labels, showcasing the lasting influence of his innovative performances and fashion designs, which continue to resonate within contemporary culture.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com

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Explore exciting exhibitions opening in London this February:

1. Dickens in Doughty Street: 100 Years of the Charles Dickens Museum
– Celebrating a century of the museum, featuring key collection items from manuscripts to letters. Open until 29th June.

2. Soane and Modernism: Make it New, Sir John Soane’s Museum
– Running from 12th February to 18th May, showcasing Soane’s influence on architectural modernism, with works alongside famous modernists.

3. The Face Magazine: Culture Shift, National Portrait Gallery
– From 20th February to 18th May, this exhibition delves into the impact of the magazine across three decades through photography and fashion.

4. Leigh Bowery! Tate Modern
– Opening on 27th February, this exhibition highlights Bowery’s diverse legacy, showcasing his iconic looks and collaborations with notable artists.

This article showcases notable exhibitions in London for February 2025, highlighting key themes and historical significance. It serves as a guide for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts to experience various forms of art, from literature and architecture to fashion and performance, reflecting on the past while engaging contemporary discourse.

February 2025 offers an enriching array of exhibitions across London. From literary treasures at the Charles Dickens Museum to the modernist inspirations at Soane’s Museum, and influential fashion at the National Portrait Gallery, each exhibit provides a unique lens into culture and history, culminating with the vibrant legacy of Leigh Bowery at Tate Modern.

Original Source: lovelondonloveculture.com

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The Tate Modern is set to host a notable exhibition titled “Leigh Bowery!” opening on February 27, 2025, celebrating the life and contributions of the influential artist and performer. Bowery, known for his radical approach to fashion and performance art, was a pivotal figure in London’s underground scene during the 1980s and 1990s. The exhibition will explore his multifaceted career and enduring impact on contemporary culture, inviting visitors into his unique world of creativity and self-expression.

Born in 1961 and raised in Melbourne, Australia, Leigh Bowery moved to London where he quickly became a prominent figure in the LGBTQ+ party scene. His avant-garde style and boundary-pushing performances have made a lasting mark on the art and fashion industries. Despite passing away in the mid-90s, Bowery’s legacy continues to resonate, inspiring artists and musicians today.

The upcoming showcase will delve into Bowery’s work, from his impressive design feats to his roles as a performer and muse to figures like Lucian Freud. Attendees can expect an immersive experience that highlights his unique contributions to topics such as identity, gender, and the body. The exhibition runs until September 2, 2025, with tickets priced at £18, free for members, at the Tate’s Bankside location in London.

Leigh Bowery was a groundbreaking artist whose career spanned several influential roles, including that of club kid, designer, and performance artist. Rising in prominence within London’s avant-garde scene in the 1980s, he became synonymous with radical self-expression and camp aesthetics. His bold persona and unique artistic vision have influenced various modern performers and artists, making the upcoming retrospective at the Tate Modern highly anticipated.

In summary, the Tate Modern’s upcoming exhibition, “Leigh Bowery!”, will celebrate the artist’s profound influence on fashion and performance. Running from February 27 to September 2, 2025, the exhibit promises a deep exploration of Bowery’s legacy, showcasing his unique style and contributions to contemporary culture, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a rare chance to honour one of London’s most extraordinary creatives.

Original Source: secretldn.com

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The National Gallery in London is opening its doors for an all-night viewing of the popular Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers exhibition. This event, scheduled from 9pm on 17 January to 10am on 18 January, allows art enthusiasts to explore the collection during the night, reminiscent of renowned artists like Lucian Freud, David Hockney, and Francis Bacon, who sought inspiration there. The exhibit, which has attracted over 283,000 visitors since its debut on 14 September 2024, marks only the second overnight opening in the gallery’s history, following the 2012 Leonardo da Vinci exhibition. Sir Gabriele Finaldi, director of the National Gallery, expressed delight at the tremendous turnout and highlighted the unique opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in Van Gogh’s works at night. The exhibition showcases over 60 pieces that highlight the artist’s imaginative transformations, making it a landmark event for both the gallery and Van Gogh’s legacy.

The Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers exhibition at the National Gallery is a significant event in the art world, focusing on Vincent van Gogh’s imaginative works. This exhibition has garnered considerable public interest, making it the third most popular paid exhibition in the gallery’s history. Opening overnight for a special weekend provides a rare opportunity for visitors to experience the art in an evocative setting, enhancing the viewing experience and creating a connection with the past practices of great artists who frequented the gallery during late hours for inspiration.

The National Gallery’s all-night opening for the Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers exhibition offers a unique chance for art lovers to engage with Vincent van Gogh’s artistry in an exclusive setting. The event celebrates the gallery’s rich history of attracting great artists while marking a successful run for one of its most popular exhibitions. Through this initiative, the gallery continues to innovate and enrich the cultural landscape, inviting more people to experience the beauty of art in a new light.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com

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The National Gallery in London will extend its Vincent van Gogh exhibition, running all night on Friday, 17 January, just before the show concludes. This event showcases the widespread admiration for Van Gogh, attracting over 280,000 visitors in four months, making it the gallery’s third-most attended paid exhibition ever. Timed tickets for overnight access are available now, and guests can also enjoy the espresso bar and shop throughout the night.

This late-night event marks the gallery’s second foray into all-night openings, following their Leonardo da Vinci exhibition. The initiative aligns with similar efforts from other institutions, like the V&A’s 24-hour opening for the Alexander McQueen show in 2015. Gabriele Finaldi, Henry Director of the National Gallery, noted this opportunity allows visitors to engage with Van Gogh’s works during the nocturnal hours preferred by past artists such as Francis Bacon and David Hockney.

The exhibition, entitled “Van Gogh: Poets and Lovers,” highlights pivotal moments in Van Gogh’s career, notably his time in Arles and an asylum in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence from 1888 to 1890, revealing his artistic thought processes. The display features iconic works including “Starry Night over the Rhône.” Finaldi remarked on Van Gogh’s significance as a symbol of dedication and passion in art, asserting the paintings convey an infectious joy for life.

The exhibition closes as the National Gallery celebrates its 200th anniversary with plans for a reimagined Sainsbury Wing and a major rehang of the permanent collection, set to unveil on 10 May.

The National Gallery is a prominent art institution in London, known for hosting acclaimed exhibitions of significant artists. The gallery’s event focusing on Vincent van Gogh has attracted substantial attendance, underscoring his continued relevance and popularity in the art world. The all-night access during the exhibition’s final days reflects a growing trend of extending museum hours to accommodate diverse visitor schedules and promote engagement with art at unconventional times.

The National Gallery’s decision to open its Van Gogh exhibition all night highlights the artist’s immense popularity and the gallery’s commitment to enhancing visitor experiences. With notable attendance figures and an array of beloved artworks on display, the late-night event will provide art enthusiasts a unique chance to appreciate Van Gogh’s masterpieces while commemorating the gallery’s bicentennial.

Original Source: www.theartnewspaper.com

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February 2025 in London promises a diverse array of events, from cultural exhibitions to fun festivals. Key highlights include Cate Blanchett starring in Chekhov’s “The Seagull” at the Barbican, an exciting exhibition on fashion icon Leigh Bowery at Tate Modern, and vivid Lunar New Year celebrations in Chinatown. Families can enjoy half-term activities, including the Southbank Centre’s Imagine Children’s Festival and Kew Gardens’ Orchid Festival. We’re set for a month filled with theatre, art, and community festivities.

For cinema lovers, February features the release of the latest Bridget Jones film, while young filmmakers can showcase their talents at the BFI Future Film Festival. Additionally, Jonathan Bailey takes the lead in Shakespeare’s “Richard II” at the Bridge Theatre, bringing contemporary interpretations to classical works. There’s something for everyone in London’s vibrant cultural scene this February.

February often seems like a quiet month, but in London, it’s teeming with celebrations and artistic endeavors. From fashion and film to children’s activities and historical exhibitions, the month encapsulates the city’s thriving culture. Notable events like Valentine’s Day, LGBTQ+ History Month, and major art and theatre productions showcase London’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The city transforms into a hub of engaging activities, suitable for families, culture enthusiasts, and romantics alike.

London in February 2025 is a vibrant blend of art, culture, and celebration. With major events like Cate Blanchett’s theatre performances, engaging exhibitions at Tate Modern, and community festivities for Lunar New Year, there’s a plethora of activities. Families are catered for with numerous child-friendly options during the half-term period, ensuring that this winter month is anything but dull. Whether it’s through art, theatre, or festive celebrations, London promises an exciting experience this February.

Original Source: www.timeout.com

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The National Gallery in London is one of the most renowned art museums globally, established in 1824 to provide public access to art and inspire visitors. With over 300 million visitors since its inception, the gallery houses over 200 exceptional paintings dating from the 13th to early 20th century, which will be featured in the upcoming book “The National Gallery. Paintings, People, Portraits,” published by Taschen Verlag in December 2024. This publication explores the gallery’s collections and includes stories from art enthusiasts and photographic portraits that reflect their personal connections to the artworks.

Christine Riding, the Director of Collections and Research, details how the National Gallery emerged from a tradition of private collections, creating a national repository for artworks accessible to the public. The foundation of the gallery occurred in a climate where art was increasingly seen as a public good, influenced by exhibitions and private collections encouraging broader access.

Prominent figures such as Sir George Beaumont and Robert Peel contributed generously to support the establishment of the gallery, alongside influential art institutions in Europe, recognising the need for a national collection that rivals its continental counterparts. Meanwhile, Annetta Berry’s research encapsulates the evolution of the gallery’s art collection, tracing the societal and technological influences on artists and their work.

Twenty-five “Ambassadors” spanning various professions have shared their connections to specific paintings, offering personal reflections that highlight art’s profound impact on individual experiences. The upcoming volume aims to solidify the gallery’s role as a leading institution for art research and public engagement.

The National Gallery in London opened in 1824 to make art more accessible to the public, significantly influencing the cultural landscape of Britain. Founded amidst a backdrop of private collections, it reflected a shift toward national representation of art. Influenced by European trends and historical developments, this institution has evolved to become a focal point for both art education and public enjoyment, engaging millions through its extensive collection and various initiatives that foster creativity and dialogue.

The National Gallery stands as a testament to the evolution of public art access and appreciation since its establishment in 1824. Through its dedicated efforts to inspire visitors and scholars alike, the gallery continues to strengthen its role in the art world, aiming to be a premier centre for research while connecting individuals through their shared love of art. The forthcoming book captures the essence of this mission, showcasing both the gallery’s historical significance and the personal narrative woven into its collections.

Original Source: cosmopolis.ch

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Frank Auerbach, a notable 20th-century artist who escaped Nazi Germany in his childhood, passed away at the age of 93 at his London home. Born in Berlin in 1931, he arrived in the UK in 1939 as part of the Kindertransport programme, which aimed to save Jewish children from the Holocaust. Auerbach’s compelling career was marked by a distinctive painting style characterised by thick layers of paint, enabling him to create dynamic landscapes and portraits. His legacy endures through his impactful artistry and influence within the post-war London art scene, having gained recognition over the decades and achieving record auction prices in later years. He is survived by his son, Jacob.

Frank Auerbach’s life and career are deeply intertwined with significant historical events, notably his childhood experiences fleeing Nazi persecution. The Kindertransport initiative facilitated his move to England, where he faced the tragic loss of his parents, who were killed in Auschwitz. His artistic journey began after studying at prestigious art institutions, leading him to develop a unique style that defied conventional artistic trends. As a prominent figure of the School of London, Auerbach’s work reflects profound emotions through abstract yet recognisable imagery.

Frank Auerbach’s passing marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the art world. His contributions as a painter highlighted the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. His unique artistic voice, formed through years of dedication and reflection, ensures that his influence will persist for future generations. The art community remembers him not only for his talent but for the profound history that shaped his life and work.

Original Source: halifax.citynews.ca

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