Gilbert & George: The Original Performance Artists
Gilbert & George, the enigmatic duo known for their unique brand of performance art, have been captivating audiences since they first met at St Martins School of Art in 1967. George Passmore and Gilbert Prousch, the British-Italian pair, have forged a career out of being their own artwork, donning vintage suits and colorful metallic paint as they sang “Underneath the Arches” in their early years. Living and working together in East London, they have become one of the most enduring examples of performance art, always appearing as one entity, even when speaking or moving.
While their early performances may not have been financially sustainable in the long run, Gilbert & George turned to visual art to continue their creative journey. Their large-scale photomontages, resembling stained glass windows, feature the duo in various poses and scenarios, exploring themes such as death, hope, life, fear, sex, money, race, and religion. These works have garnered attention from collectors around the world, with pieces housed in prestigious institutions like the Tate and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.
The recent exhibition, “Gilbert & George: 21st Century Pictures,” at the Hayward Gallery in London, showcases the duo’s iconic imagery in a crowded yet impactful display. The works, arranged without captions or a chronological order, highlight Gilbert & George’s exploration of fundamental truths and their unique approach to challenging religious beliefs and addressing mortality. Each piece features the artists’ signature embedded within it, reinforcing their identity as the artwork itself.
In their images, Gilbert & George appear as larger-than-life figures, with exaggerated features and bold expressions. Whether sleeping on a park bench or navigating the streets of Britain, they exude a sense of irreverence and charm that is both captivating and thought-provoking. The standardized black-lined window format adds a cartoon-like quality to the pieces, making them visually striking and easily recognizable.
While some may question the depth of meaning in Gilbert & George’s work, it is clear that they are committed to being the art itself. Their dedication is evident in the merchandise available in the gift shop, which reflects their cheeky irreverence and iconic slogans. Much like Jeff Koons, who embraces the commercial aspects of his art, Gilbert & George have created a brand that is uniquely their own, appealing to collectors and fans alike.
As “Gilbert & George: 21st Century Pictures” continues at the Hayward Gallery, it is evident that the duo’s legacy as original performance artists will endure for years to come. Their dedication to being the art, their provocative imagery, and their distinct brand make them a truly unique and captivating presence in the art world.
