Transformative Art
Groundbreaking art show on gender identity granted new McNay exhibition
A groundbreaking new show is coming to San Antonio this summer, thanks in part to a considerable grant. "Transamerica/n: Gender, Identity, Appearance Today," examining transgender issues and gender identity, will open this summer at the esteemed McNay Art Museum.
The pioneering exhibition gathers work from in the United States, Mexico, and Canada in what is being billed as "the country’s first broad survey of contemporary artwork from across North America to explore the spectrum of gender identity as manifest in outward appearance."
Working to get this monumental show mounted is the Henry Luce Foundation’s American Art Program, which announced on January 29 that it is bestowing $175,000 to the McNay in support of "Transamerica/n." The San Antonio museum was one of only 14 institutions in the country to receive the competitive grant.
“We are profoundly honored to have the support of the Henry Luce Foundation for this pioneering exhibition,” says McNay director Richard Aste in a release. “Because of such major support, the McNay can realize its vision of becoming a safe community center where every visitor can see themselves, be their authentic selves, and know they were truly meant to be here.”
Calling it "transformative, transcendent, and trans-historical," the McNay says "'Transamerica/n' ... [will] challenge traditional representations of gender by celebrating a spectrum of visual gender expression through various mediums."
As an added bonus, the show will open in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the 1969 Stonewall Riots, considered the unofficial kickoff to the queer rights movement in America.
“The Luce Foundation’s American Art Program is pleased to support the McNay’s exciting exhibition project, which will invite viewers to experience how powerful works of art can help them consider how they perceive the world of people around them,” says Dr. Teresa Carbone, American Art program director.
"Transamerica/n: Gender, Identity, Appearance Today," opens June 20 and runs through September 15. Check here for details.
