Publisher's Synopsis
Focusing on one specific and lesser-known aspect of the manifold practice of General Idea, the Canadian collective founded in Toronto in 1969 by Felix Partz, Jorge Zontalboth deceased in 1994and AA Bronson, this volume highlights their drawing practice. It offers a generous insight into 125 carefully selected drawings realized between 1985 and 1993the period the collective spent in New Yorkspanning the diversity and innovation of their singular approach to drawing and art. The publications design is inspired by George Groszs legendary Ecce Homo album (19221923) because, according to AA Bronson, the Anti-Semitism in Groszs narrative is mirrored by the homophobia in ours.Investigating motifs in the groups multimedia works such as poodles, stiletto heels, masks, heraldry, and metamorphosed genitalia, these drawings were primarily produced by Jorge Zontal during group meetings. However, given General Ideas mandate for co-authorship, as well as the circumstances under which they were executed, the drawings are considered to be collaborative. Although they are done entirely by hand, the repetition of specific motifs follows a viral logic that is akin to General Ideas own penchant for mass reproduction. Seen together, these drawings are a fascinating window into General Ideas distinct artistic vision as well as their unique notions of collaboration and co-authorship. As Claire Gilman states in her introduction: The drawings are on the one hand dizzyingly fullthis is particularly true of the later drawings where cockroaches spawn and multiply amid dots and splatters of colorand, on the other, hauntingly vacant consisting of mere stains or barely-there outlines, even within a single series. Lest we get too caught up in any one particular rendition, another follows, giving the lie to its predecessor. In their mutability and insistent flow, they are an intimate manifestation of the theatrical nature of existence, exposing representations inadequacy while acknowledging its urgency.Edited and introduced by Lionel Bovier and Claire Gilman, co-curators of the exhibition Ecce Homo. The Drawings of General Idea, 19851993 held in 20222023 at MAMCO Geneva and The Drawing Center, New York, the book also features a conversation with AA Bronson and an index of the drawings.Published with MAMCO Geneva and The Drawing Center, New York