Leigh Bowery’s short but extraordinary life left a distinct, undeniable mark on the art world and beyond.
An artist, performer, model, TV personality, club promoter, fashion designer and musician, Bowery took on many different roles, all the while refusing to be limited by convention.
From his emergence in the nightlife of 1980s London through to his later daring and outrageous performances in galleries, theatres, and the street, Bowery fearlessly forged his own vibrant path. He reimagined clothing and makeup as forms of painting and sculpture, tested the limits of decorum, and celebrated the body as a shape-shifting tool with the power to challenge norms of aesthetics, sexuality and gender.
Embracing performance, club culture and fashion design, Bowery created some of the most iconic images of the 1980s and 90s that continue to resonate, with his influence seen in the work of figures such as Alexander McQueen, Jeffrey Gibson, Anohni, and Lady Gaga.
This eclectic and immersive exhibition is a rare chance to experience many of Bowery’s ‘Looks’ alongside his collaborations with artists including Michael Clark, John Maybury, Baillie Walsh, Fergus Greer, Nick Knight and Lucian Freud.
It will provide a fresh insight into the creative scenes in London, New York and beyond featuring Sue Tilley, Trojan, Princess Julia, Les Child, Andrew Logan, Lady Bunny, Scarlett Cannon, MINTY and Boy George.
Moving from the club to the stage, to the gallery and beyond, step inside Bowery’s dynamic creative world that blurred the lines between art and life.
The exhibition is organised by Tate Modern in collaboration with Nicola Rainbird, Director and Owner of the Estate of Leigh Bowery
Lucian Freud Leigh Bowery 1991 Tate © The Lucian Freud Archive / Bridgeman Images 2023
Fergus Greer Session VII, Look 38, June 1994 1994, printed 2025 © Fergus Greer, courtesy Michael Hoppen Gallery, London.
John Maybury Leigh Bowery dancing (except from Read Only Memory) 1989
Nick Knight Leigh Bowery: Yellow 1987, printed 2025 © Nick Knight
Fergus Greer Leigh Bowery Session II, Look 10 July 1989 1989, printed 2025 © Fergus Greer, courtesy Michael Hoppen Gallery, London.
