About
Join author and historian, Dr Elizabeth Currie and artist and film director, Simon Frederick for a live discussion exploring fashion and masculinity through our collection.
Get to know the social cues, hints, and ambiguity of dress and how in particular, Renaissance Italy became a testing ground for masculine ideals. Was fashionable clothing a sign of magnificence or a source of mockery? How could a man dress for court without bankrupting himself?
These talking points will help structure the investigation of male appearances in art and how they were used to project social, sexual, and professional identities. Addressing important themes such as gender, politics, and consumption, this conversation will travel right up to the present day, touching upon the interplay between historical narratives and contemporary visual culture – especially in relation to Black masculinity and representation.
Your hosts
Dr Elizabeth Currie is a lecturer and author specialising in the history of textiles and fashion. Currently teaching at Central Saint Martins with previous roles at the Victoria and Albert Museum, Currie has published widely on fashion and design for general and specialist audiences. Dr Elizabeth Currie's book, 'Fashion and masculinity in Renaissance Florence' was published in 2016.
Simon Frederick is an internationally recognised artist whose work spans photography, filmmaking, and contemporary visual art. His practice is deeply rooted in an exploration of Black identity, cultural memory, and the aesthetics of representation, using the power of portraiture and moving image to challenge and redefine mainstream narratives. Self-taught and uncompromising in his vision, Frederick’s art practice is driven by an instinctive ability to capture the depth of human experience. His work is celebrated for its striking composition, emotional resonance, and intellectual rigour, making him a pivotal figure in contemporary Black art.
Masculinity in art
Tickets
Members & Patrons: £20
This is a House event. Please show your membership card and ticket to gain entry to the event.
Please meet at the Salon located in Supporters' House for registration.