In his raucous and performative work across a variety of media—including sculpture, ceramics, photography and video—Anthony Sonnenberg addresses art history, artifice and sincerity, spirit, and queer life. This elaborate installation brings together hand-crafted brass flora, swaths of silken fabric, tassels, tchotchkes, artificial flowers, real and fake antiques, photographs, and repurposed party decor into a riotously gilded composition. Sonnenberg gives Baroque art—which flourished in Europe from the early 16th century through the 1740 and was hallmarked by grandeur and flamboyance—his own exuberant twist. This exhibition’s title references the iconic 1978 funk disco hit by the gender- nonconforming singer and musical artist Sylvester. Through his work, Sonnenberg celebrates these histories. While he romances the Baroque, Sonnenberg also creates space for viewers to participate; gallery visitors are invited to step behind the façade and look out through the central portrait, surrounded by golden extravagance.
About the Artist
Details
Site Specific Interactive Installation: Wood, found fabrics, found objects, recycled art works, video
25' x 15' x 15' approx
Artist: Anthony Sonnenberg
Date: 2022