A celebration of Leigh Bowery’s daring, genre-defying artistry

We were lucky to get a sneaky preview courtesy of Great Art Explained (see video linked below).

Leigh Bowery burned bright and left a mark no one could erase. His life was short, but his impact on art, fashion, and performance still pulses through culture today.

He did it all—artist, performer, model, TV personality, club promoter, fashion designer, musician. But above all, Bowery was a force, refusing to be boxed in by rules or expectations.

From the wild nightlife of 1980s London to bold, provocative performances in galleries, theaters, and the streets, he lived unapologetically. His body became his canvas, his outfits a walking sculpture. He redefined beauty, sexuality, and gender, pushing every limit he could find.

Bowery’s influence is everywhere, from Alexander McQueen to Lady Gaga, Jeffrey Gibson to Anohni. His fearless approach to fashion, club culture, and performance art shaped some of the most unforgettable images of the ‘80s and ‘90s.

This immersive exhibition brings together his legendary “Looks” and collaborations with icons like Michael Clark, John Maybury, Baillie Walsh, Fergus Greer, Nick Knight, and Lucian Freud.

It’s a deep dive into the creative scenes of London, New York, and beyond, featuring key figures like Sue Tilley, Trojan, Princess Julia, Les Child, Andrew Logan, Lady Bunny, Scarlett Cannon, MINTY, and Boy George.

From club floors to gallery walls, Bowery blurred every line between art and life. Step inside his world—loud, fearless, and impossible to forget.

Full review by James Payne of Great Art Explained coming to @artlyst - also @suetilley1 book has been reissued by @thamesandhudson.

Showing 27 FEBRUARY – 31 AUGUST 2025 at Tate Modern in collaboration with Nicola Rainbird, Director of the Estate of Leigh Bowery.

greatartexplained

View more on Instagram

Preview video above by Great Art Explained 🔗