Corey Serrant, an Art Specialist at Swann Auction Galleries, shares insights into the fascinating world of LGBTQ+ art and history. They discuss unique artifacts from an upcoming auction, including a rare second-century Roman marble bust that connects to famous writers. Meanwhile, an invitation from a legendary lesbian bar in Weimar Berlin highlights the rich, yet often overlooked, cultural history of LGBTQ+ spaces. Serrant emphasizes the importance of preserving these treasures for future generations.
The LGBTQ+ art auction at Swann Galleries plays a vital role in recognizing and valuing diverse historical contributions to queer culture.
Collecting LGBTQ+ art has evolved from personal connections in the 1950s to a broader appreciation of its historical significance and narrative.
Deep dives
The Significance of the LGBTQ+ Art Auction
The annual LGBTQ+ art and history auction by Swan Galleries plays a critical role in the recognition and valuation of LGBTQ+ art and culture. This event showcases a diverse range of items from ancient artifacts to contemporary photography, underscoring the rich history of LGBTQ+ contributions across various periods. In its sixth year, the auction not only elevates previously undervalued pieces but also collaborates with nonprofit organizations to support the ongoing work in the LGBTQ+ art history sector. It represents a significant step in canonizing LGBTQ+ art while providing a platform for public engagement and appreciation.
The Evolution of Collection and Preservation
The collecting and preservation of LGBTQ+ art began in the 1950s and 60s, driven mainly by individuals who sought to maintain a connection to their identities through material culture. Early collectors often acquired works that resonated deeply with their personal experiences, developing private collections amid societal repression. Today, collectors and institutions alike are more conscious of preserving these artifacts not just as art, but as essential elements of LGBTQ+ history and identity. This shift represents a broader movement towards public appreciation of the complex narratives embedded within these collections.
Diverse Historical Contexts in Artworks
The auction features a wide variety of significant items, like a Roman marble bust with a storied provenance linking it to prominent LGBTQ+ figures such as Tennessee Williams and Gore Vidal. This connection illustrates how art can embody and convey personal histories that span generations and cultural changes. Another example includes an invitation to a lesbian bar from interwar Berlin, showcasing the vibrant LGBTQ+ community that existed before the rise of fascism, providing a lens into the cultural vibrancy that was under threat. These artifacts highlight the importance of understanding LGBTQ+ history, as they tell the stories of resilience and existence amid adversity.
The Auction Process as a Narrative Tool
The auction process not only facilitates the sale of invaluable pieces but also serves as a collaborative effort in presenting LGBTQ+ history. It brings together diverse materials from different mediums, allowing for unique juxtaposition and storytelling. The valuation of pieces takes into account their historical significance, contributing to a deeper appreciation of the artists and activists who shaped LGBTQ+ culture. By linking contemporary collectors with the history of these works, the auction fosters a connected narrative that preserves and celebrates the ongoing journey of the LGBTQ+ community.
This week, Jules sits down with Art Specialist Corey Serrant from Swann Auction Galleries to chat about pieces from their upcoming LGBTQ+ Art, Material Culture & History auction and how they found the art in the first place. From an Ancient Roman bust who was an unlikely companion to famous writers to an invitation to the Weimar Republic’s hottest lesbian bar, this collection spans centuries of queer life.