by Ralph Rugoff (Artist), Michael Bracewell (Text by (Art/Photo Books)), Rachel Thomas (Text by (Art/Photo Books))
Like stained glass windows onto a modern age, Gilbert & George's pictures encompass the full spectrum of human existence
The dons of all artist duos, Gilbert & George have for five decades committed to their motto of "art for all," particularly through their method of "living sculpture." Their practice ranges from charcoal sketches to sculptural interventions; however, it is their expansive, vividly colored pictures that have become the signature facet of their oeuvre. Characterized by concise, often single-word titles emblazoned in bold capital letters, each picture becomes a stage for the exploration of societal norms and cultural taboos. With bespoke cover artwork designed by Gilbert & George themselves, 21st Century Pictures features selections from key series made since 2000. Lavishly produced, with red sprayed edges, it also includes an introduction by Rachel Thomas, an in-depth essay by Michael Bracewell and a new interview with the artists by Hans Ulrich Obrist.