The radical world of Leigh Bowery at Tate Modern

Tate Modern is presenting Leigh Bowery!, an immersive exhibition celebrating the extraordinary life and work of the iconic performance artist, designer, and club promoter. Running until July 6th, 2025, the exhibition explores Bowery’s multifaceted influence on art, fashion, and culture, featuring his groundbreaking performances, daring fashion designs, and provocative collaborations with artists such as Michael Clark, John Maybury, and Lucian Freud. Visitors will encounter Bowery’s infamous ‘Looks,’ which blur the lines between sculpture, painting, and fashion, with several key pieces showcasing his transformation of the body into an instrument of rebellion.

Among the standout works are his colorful, liquid-drenched costumes and the iconic ‘heads’ bound in fabric—symbolizing his challenge to norms of aesthetics, gender, and sexuality. Another notable project, his collaboration with Lucian Freud, offers an intimate glimpse into his personal and professional world. The exhibition also highlights Bowery’s influential role in shaping London’s vibrant underground scene in the 1980s and his lasting impact on modern fashion icons like Alexander McQueen and Lady Gaga.

Curated in collaboration with Nicola Rainbird, the exhibition offers a rare chance to experience Bowery’s legacy up close, making it a must-see for those interested in the intersection of performance, fashion, and contemporary art.