The groundbreaking exhibition, “The First Homosexuals: The Birth of a New Identity 1869–1939,” curated by Jonathan D. Katz, delves into the unexplored territory of the history of sexuality through the lens of art. The exhibition features 300 works by 125 artists from 40 countries, spanning from the late 19th century to mark the coining of the term “homosexual” in 1869 by Hungarian journalist Karl Maria Kertbeny.
The show sheds light on how the categorization of individuals based on sexual orientation transformed the concept of personal identity, limiting the spectrum of human attraction to a binary framework of homosexual and heterosexual. It delves into the emergence of gay culture in the margins of society, exploring the nuances of same-sex relationships expressed through art in avant-garde circles.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is the diverse range of artworks that depict various aspects of queer identity, from Gertrude Stein in Paris to Walt Whitman in the United States, from haunting portraits by Romaine Brooks to bold depictions of same-sex relationships by Ida Matton. The exhibition not only celebrates the resilience and defiance of queer individuals but also confronts complex truths, such as the dualities in the beliefs of artists like Elisár von Kupffer and Eduard von Mayer, who were both supporters of Hitler and White Supremacists.
Despite its academic rigor, the exhibition maintains a personal and urgent atmosphere, documenting a queer history threatened by societal and governmental erasure. The show challenges conventional norms and taxonomies, showcasing a rich tapestry of identities, chosen families, and resistance against societal constraints.
The exhibition also explores the impact of colonization on gender identities, highlighting how Indigenous populations challenged rigid gender norms through art. It bravely showcases explicit content, such as erotic paintings and illustrations, to underscore the importance of preserving diverse expressions of desire and identity.
In a time of political hostilities and threats, “The First Homosexuals” serves as a beacon of defiance and celebration of LGBTQ+ histories. The exhibition invites viewers to contemplate the cultural imposition of values on humanity and the role of art in maintaining freedoms. Through a nuanced exploration of queer identities and histories, the exhibition advocates for inclusivity, diversity, and the preservation of marginalized narratives.
“The First Homosexuals: The Birth of a New Identity, 1869–1939” is a must-see exhibition at Wrightwood 659 in Chicago, offering a profound and thought-provoking journey through the rich tapestry of queer history.
