ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Steve Locke Analyzes Robert Gober's Metaphors, Norman Examines Representation in Traveling Retrospective

opinion-review · 2026-04-23

Steve Locke examines how Robert Gober employs formal and conceptual metaphors to depict physical suffering. Norman explores contradictions and omissions in Gober's portrayals of sexuality and race. A traveling retrospective of Gober's work transforms personal experiences into political statements while maintaining aesthetic beauty. New exhibitions featuring Gober's work provide insights into cultural history, fashion, and representation. David Carrier reports on the political dimensions and curatorial strategies of "Manifesta 10," currently displayed in St. Petersburg.

Key facts

  • Steve Locke analyzes Robert Gober's use of metaphor
  • Norman addresses contradictions in Gober's representations of sex and race
  • A traveling retrospective makes personal work political
  • Gober's work connects to cultural history and fashion
  • David Carrier reports on "Manifesta 10"
  • "Manifesta 10" is on view in St. Petersburg
  • Gober's work visualizes bodily suffering
  • Exhibitions provide insights about representation

Entities

Artists

  • Steve Locke
  • Robert Gober
  • Norman
  • David Carrier

Institutions

  • Manifesta 10

Locations

  • St. Petersburg
  • Russia

Sources