Marilyn Minter | Lehmann Maupin Seoul
Marilyn Minter, Gilded Age, 2023, enamel on metal, 28 x 36 inches, 71.1 x 91.4 cm, Courtesy the artist, Salon 94, New York; Regen Projects, Los Angeles; Lehmann Maupin, New York, Seoul, and London; and Baldwin Gallery, Aspen
Written by Aundréa Verdi
Marilyn Minter's inaugural solo exhibition in Seoul at the Lehmann Maupin Gallery offers a tantalizing exploration of the female condition through mesmerizing new paintings. Within this collection, viewers are drawn into a world of intimate yet enigmatic vignettes, each centered around the lips and mouths of women. The essence of femininity is on full display while challenging traditional notions of beauty, inviting us to confront and reconsider societal norms.
Known for her multidisciplinary approach spanning photography, painting, video, and installation, Minter seamlessly combines hyperrealism with abstract techniques in her latest works. Throughout her illustrious career, she has championed the portrayal of aspects of womanhood typically overlooked or stigmatized in mainstream media. From body hair to stretch marks, Minter fearlessly confronts these realities, reframing them within an empowering context.
Marilyn Minter, Shy, 2023, enamel on metal, 48 x 36 inches, 121.9 x 91.4 cm, Courtesy the artist, Salon 94, New York; Regen Projects, Los Angeles; Lehmann Maupin, New York, Seoul, and London; and Baldwin Gallery, Aspen.
One of the most striking features of this collection is the meticulous attention to detail, which is evident in each element. Each composition, characterized by opulent adornments with obscured or partially revealed lips, exudes intimacy and intrigue. The images create a tension between mystery and sensuality, compelling the viewer to unravel the layers of meaning embedded within each piece. Here, the artwork skillfully juxtaposes notions of glamor with elements of subversion to dispute conventional beauty standards. The result is a composition that is at once captivating and unsettling, prompting viewers to question their preconceived notions of femininity.
Central to Minter's practice is her unique approach to blending photography and painting. This process exemplifies her innovative spirit and dedication to pushing creative boundaries. By using photographs as a starting point for her paintings, she seamlessly translates the nuances of the photographic image into a painterly language, imbuing her work with depth and texture. This fusion of mediums reflects the artist's technical versatility. It also underscores her belief in the transformative power of art to provoke meaningful conversations.
Marilyn Minter, Lucent, 2023, enamel on metal, 72 x 48 inches, 182.9 x 121.9 cm, Courtesy the artist, Salon 94, New York; Regen Projects, Los Angeles; Lehmann Maupin, New York, Seoul, and London; and Baldwin Gallery, Aspen.
The exhibition showcases Minter's feminist perspective as she reclaims the female form from the confines of traditional representation.Throughout her career, she has challenged the male gaze by reclaiming female sexuality and desire, debasing common narratives of objectification and exploitation. By depicting women on their terms, Minter empowers her subjects and celebrates the female form's inherent beauty, unapologetically embracing their quirks.
This work stands apart because it can evoke complex emotions through seemingly simple compositions. Each piece invites viewers to engage with the subject on a deeply personal level, prompting introspection and reflection. Whether it's the allure of a set of lips obscured by steam or the defiance of a jewel-encrusted grin, the imagery enchants and challenges in equal measure.
Through Minter’s work, women emerge as intricate and multifaceted beings, transcending societal expectations and embracing their inherent strength and resilience. In a world inundated with narrow definitions of beauty, her art poignantly reminds us of the beauty that lies in authenticity and self-acceptance.
Marilyn Minter's exhibition at Lehmann Maupin is a triumph of artistry and activism, showcasing her unparalleled ability to captivate and provoke. With her bold exploration of femininity, Minter inspires audiences worldwide, challenging us to reconsider our preconceptions and embrace imperfection.
On display through April 27th, 2024.
Marilyn Minter, Circe, 2023, enamel on wood panel, 32 x 24 inches, 81.3 x 61 cm, Courtesy the artist, Salon 94, New York; Regen Projects, Los Angeles; Lehmann Maupin, New York, Seoul, and London; and Baldwin Gallery, Aspen.
