Queeries

“Queeries” is Joseph Abbati’s inquiry on the masculine figure and forms of expression from a queer point of view. Masculinity’s definition in the queer community has a different context from the prevailing social heteronormative canons. The paintings in this exhibit reveal masculine forms depicting queer identity, kinks, and beauty. 

The paintings in Joseph’s work use graphic lines, contour, and figures. The outlines of the figures in the paintings are sometimes placed off-register like in printmaking.  This produces a visual vibration and depth to the figures that contrast to the flatness of the painting.  In some of the paintings, color blocks the contour of the figure to create a graphic image which references Joseph’s history and experience working in graphic design.

(Click on images below for slideshow)