Gilbert & George are a British artistic duo, composed of Gilbert Prousch (born in 1943 in Italy) and George Passmore (born in 1942 in the UK). They met in 1967 while studying at St. Martin’s School of Art in London and have been creating art collaboratively since 1969. Known for their distinctive and highly formal appearance in public, they often dress in similar suits, considering themselves “living sculptures.”
Gilbert & George
The duo’s art spans various media, including drawing, painting, photography, and performance, but they are most famous for their large-scale photo montages. These works often combine black and white photographs with bright, sometimes lurid colors and are segmented into grids that resemble stained glass windows. The themes of their work often explore aspects of city life, sexual identity, religion, and the human condition, merging personal expressions with societal observations.
Blurring the Lines Between Art and Everyday Life
Gilbert & George's art is noted for its provocative nature, tackling taboos and controversial topics such as race, sexuality, and religion with a direct and confrontational approach. Despite the serious themes, their work often incorporates elements of humor and irony. They received significant recognition, including representing Britain at the Venice Biennale in 2005 and winning the Turner Prize in 1986.
Gilbert & George’s approach to art and living, where their daily lives become an art form, challenges traditional distinctions between art and life, making them unique figures in contemporary art.