Tate Modern exhibition explores Leigh Bowery's transformative legacy in art and queer culture

The Tate Modern presents the exhibition 'Leigh Bowery!', which delves into the life and career of the Australian performer from his move to London in 1980 until his passing in 1994. The showcase includes costumes, videos of his performances, and pieces by artists he influenced, such as Lucian Freud and Michael Clark. In 1985, Bowery initiated the Taboo club night, which became a significant center for queer culture for 18 months. His performances often featured extreme bodily transformations, particularly the 'Birth' series at Kinky Gerlinky in 1992. Bowery worked with Freud, appearing in 'Fragment of Head of Leigh' (1993/94). He delivered his last performance on November 24, 1994, before succumbing to AIDS-related complications on New Year's Eve 1994. The exhibition also showcases a documentary titled 'Leigh's Lounge,' created by Robert Fox and Josh Quinton.