Accompanying the retrospective exhibition of their work at Tate Modern
opening February 2007, the largest ever staged at the museum, Gilbert &
George provides a highly affordable introduction to the career of these
extraordinary artists. Featuring chronologically arranged reproductions
of all the works feautured in the show, the catalogue also includes
previously unpublished installations, drawings and ephemera. Curator Jan
Debbaut introduces the work of Gilbert & George and examines the
importance of this retrospective, touring exhibition of their work.
Novelist and cultural commentator Michael Bracewell considers the vital
role the East End of London has played in the artists' work, exploring
their relationship with the city and placing them in an artistic
tradition including the great 19th Century realist novelists and the
films of David Lean. Art Historian and critic Marco Livingstone
challenges the viewer to abandon their preconceptions before the
artists' work and experience the world view of Gilbert & George in all
its powerful intensity.A series of hand-written quotes by the artists
commenting upon their work, and their position as 'living sculptures'
are featured throughout the book and provide a fascinating insight into
their artistic practice. With an illustrated chronology and bibliography
designed by the artists, this catalogue is an affordable and
comprehensive introduction to two of the most significant artists
working today.
