Renowned artist Matthew Barney is set to showcase his newest body of work, titled “Secondary,” at four prestigious galleries in May and June. Known for his groundbreaking and provocative art, Barney has captivated audiences with his unique and boundary-pushing creations.
One of Barney’s signature elements in his work is viscous goo, which has become a recurring motif in his art. From his early days of climbing walls and ceilings naked in a harness to his more recent pieces featuring translucent fluids, Barney’s art has always pushed the boundaries of traditional art forms. The influence of his work can even be seen in luxury fashion today, with designers like Balenciaga incorporating goo-like elements into their designs.
Another taboo that Barney fearlessly tackles in his art is full-frontal male nudity. Long before it became more common in contemporary culture, Barney was unapologetically breaking this last taboo, challenging societal norms and expectations.
Barney’s exploration of bodily secretions, including urine, feces, semen, blood, and breast milk, has solidified his reputation as a master of corporeal fluids. His film “River of Fundament” is a prime example of his provocative and boundary-pushing work, drawing inspiration from Norman Mailer’s novel “Ancient Evenings” and featuring shocking scenes that have influenced a younger generation of artists.
Additionally, Barney’s art often delves into the dynamics of artist couples, particularly his relationship with singer Björk. Their collaboration on projects like “Drawing Restraint 9” and Björk’s accompanying soundtrack have blurred the lines between personal relationships and artistic expression, paving the way for other public figures to explore their personal lives through art.
With his upcoming exhibition, Matthew Barney continues to push the boundaries of art and challenge societal norms, solidifying his status as a visionary artist in the contemporary art world.
