Pierre et Gilles (1950- .. and1953- ..) (Google images)

A gay imagery.

The work of Pierre and Gilles consists mostly of portraits which are translated into a flamboyant imagery that mixes colours, patterns and glitter. The characters Pierre and Gilles play different roles in their various self-portraits. The breadth of the roles they play shows that they do not take themselves too seriously, and they approach most subjects with an ample dose of humour. Their famous or infamous subjects are also veiled in particular cloaks in their photographs/paintings. Often, the works are put into a frame that is especially designed to match the decorative nature of the image. Though the technique and images are highly original, the subject matter does not go much beyond original portraits.

(Pierre et Gilles had a retrospective show in Jeu de Paume (site Concorde) in Paris in 2007. "Double Je". The way the show was staged showed a mastery of the art of scenery, and a sense for the detail as well as the global picture that is rare.)

Copyright text 2007, by Jan Troost