Description
The story of art collective Gran Fury—which fought back during the AIDS crisis through direct action and community-made propaganda—offers lessons in love and grief. In the late 1980s, the AIDS pandemic was annihilating queer people, intravenous drug users, and communities of color in America, and disinformation about the disease ran rampant. Out of the activist group ACT UP (AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power), an art collective that called itself Gran Fury formed to campaign against corporate greed, government inaction, stigma, and public indifference to the epidemic. Writer Jack Lowery examines Gran Fury’s art and activism from iconic images like the “Kissing Doesn’t Kill” poster to the act of dropping piles of fake bills onto the trading floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Lowery offers a complex, moving portrait of a collective and its members, who built essential solidarities with each other and whose lives evidenced the profound trauma of enduring the AIDS crisis. Gran Fury and ACT UP’s strategies are still used frequently by the activists leading contemporary movements. In an era when structural violence and the devastation of COVID-19 continue to target the most vulnerable, this belief in the power of public art and action persists.
Details
Discover the riveting story of Gran Fury, the art collective that fearlessly fought against the AIDS crisis with their powerful artwork and direct action. In the face of devastating loss and misinformation, Gran Fury emerged as a beacon of hope, challenging corporate greed, government inaction, and public indifference. Now, you can immerse yourself in their remarkable journey of love and grief with the groundbreaking book, "It Was Vulgar and It Was Beautiful: How AIDS Activists Used Art to Fight a Pandemic".
Written by acclaimed author Jack Lowery, this gripping book delves deep into the heart of Gran Fury's activism, offering an intimate exploration of their iconic images and groundbreaking propaganda. From the powerful "Kissing Doesn't Kill" poster that stirred emotions across the nation to their audacious act of dropping fake bills onto the New York Stock Exchange, every page is filled with the passion and resilience that drove this remarkable collective.
But "It Was Vulgar and It Was Beautiful" is more than just a historical account. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of Gran Fury and ACT UP, as their strategies continue to inspire and shape contemporary movements. As the world grapples with the devastating effects of COVID-19 and lingering structural violence, the belief in the transformative power of public art and action remains stronger than ever.
If you are ready to be captivated by a story of courage, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of activism, don't miss out on "It Was Vulgar and It Was Beautiful". Order your copy today and join the ranks of those who are committed to making a difference. Together, we can create a world where art is not only a powerful tool for change, but a symbol of hope and unity.
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