Inspired by Frick Madison, which has prompted new perspectives on the Frick's collection, Living Histories presents four paintings created in response to specific works, with particular emphasis on issues of gender and queer identity typically excluded from narratives of early modern European art. The first two installments feature paintings by Doron Langberg and Salman Toor, on view on the second floor from 30 September 2021 until January 2022.
Like Holbein’s portrait of Thomas More, Lover is based on direct observation and a close study of the sitter. The artists share a desire for their paintings to feel as alive as their subjects – as Holbein himself stated – and both use surface treatment and paint handling to animate their respective figures, albeit in much different ways.
Image: Doron Langberg, Lover, 2021
Oil on linen
76.2 x 61 cm, 30 x 24 in
© Doron Langberg
Courtesy the artist and Victoria Miro