Marcus Harvey's 2002 Exhibition at Mary Boone Gallery Features Still Lifes of Sex Toys and Party Detritus
From March 9 to April 27, 2002, Marcus Harvey showcased three expansive still life artworks at the Mary Boone Gallery in New York. Each piece, measuring 6.5 by 16 feet, features dildos, vibrators, and elements from an "Ann's Summer Party," including pizza crusts, wine glasses, and ashtrays alongside sexual devices. One artwork presents a bureau adorned with warm-hued toys and cool-toned garments, while another juxtaposes black and red totemic sex toys with animals. Located at 541 West 24th Street, this exhibition contrasts sharply with Harvey's 1995 piece "Myra." Central themes include the commercialization of sex, the public nature of the private, and self-censorship, as many visitors hesitated to engage in discussions about the displayed items.
Key facts
- Marcus Harvey's exhibition ran from March 9 to April 27, 2002
- The show was held at Mary Boone Gallery at 541 West 24th Street in New York, NY 10001
- Three large paintings, each measuring 6.5 by 16 feet, dominated the gallery
- The works depict sex toys and detritus from an "Ann's Summer Party," an English adult product party
- Scenes include dildos, vibrators, pizza crusts, wine glasses, stacked plates, and ashtrays
- One painting shows an overhead view of a bureau with drawers open to toys and folded clothes
- The exhibition contrasts with Harvey's earlier work "Myra" (1995) from the Sensation show
- Themes include the commodification of sex and the privacy of sexual objects in public display
Entities
Artists
- Marcus Harvey
Institutions
- Mary Boone Gallery
- Sensation show
Locations
- New York
- United States
- England