Most artists have a favorite predecessor or artistic movement with which they particularly identify. These influences can be manifested in many ways. Examples include the re-use of imagery, adoption of a distinctive style developed by an earlier artist, self-portrayals in the guise of a favorite artist, or the incorporation of a famous work in a new context.
The new Library exhibition, “Art of Homage: Translation, Interpretation, and Appropriation,” brings together a wide range of graphic art inspired by other well-known artworks, artists, or pivotal figures in an artist’s life. The exhibition showcases the visual dialogue that can result from borrowing and interpreting previous works of art.
“Art of Homage: Translation, Interpretation, and Appropriation” is on display through June 16 in the Special Collections Gallery and the Charles Marvin Fairchild Memorial Gallery on the fifth floor of Lau.
The role of studying and copying from masterworks of the past in the training of artists is highlighted in a companion exhibition of works by Georgetown students in the Library’s fourth floor community gallery. “Art of Homage: Student Exhibition” features works that reference previous art in transformative ways. The student exhibition is on display through April 26.