Anh Duong: Exploring the Incoherences of a Gentlewoman
Anh Duong is a prominent figure in the fashion industry, known for her trailblazing campaigns with renowned designers such as Thom Browne, Donna Karan, and Miu Miu. However, her influence extends far beyond the boundaries of the fashion world. For over three decades, Duong has emerged as a distinguished visual artist, captivating audiences with her evocative paintings.
Duong's artwork primarily focuses on depicting figures, including herself and others. Notably, she has created striking portraits of her famous friends, including Anjelica Huston, Diane Von Furstenberg, and Susan Sarandon. Her artistic journey began in 1991 when her works were exhibited at Sperone Westwater, marking the start of a successful career that has taken her to galleries and museums in major cities like New York, London, Washington, and Los Angeles.
On February 9, Duong will open her latest exhibition titled 'The Incoherences of a Gentlewoman' at Galerie Gmurzynska, curated by Isabelle Bscher, in New York City. The solo show will present a stunning collection of self-portraits that exhibit Duong's unique style and mastery of the medium. The exhibition will run until March 9, offering art enthusiasts a chance to immerse themselves in Duong's captivating works.
Duong's new series of paintings, completed in 2022, explores the concept of the 'gentlewoman,' presenting a feminist perspective on traditional gender roles. Through her art, she aims to delve into the distinctions between masculinity and femininity. In each painting, Duong portrays herself as both woman and man, wearing elegant suits, ties, and blazers, challenging conventional notions of gender identity. She questions what it truly means to be feminine in a world that is increasingly preoccupied with labeling and categorizing aspects of gender.
This latest body of work draws inspiration from the remarkable French writer George Sand, who defied societal norms by wearing men's clothing in the 19th century. Duong reflects on the current era, where discussions surrounding gender have become ever more complex and intricate. Defining gender identities has proven challenging in today's society, and Duong's art seeks to shed light on this fluidity.
Fashion has always played a significant role in Duong's artistic expression. She believes that clothing can convey a profound sense of mood and attitude in portraits. Choosing what to paint offers her a creative outlet, with some concepts taking years to fully comprehend and others mere moments. Duong's art invites viewers into a world where fashion becomes an instrument for exploring self-expression and meaning.
Within her exhibition, one striking portrait depicts Duong locked in an embrace with a man. Titled 'The Gentlewoman or the Aggravation of our Incoherences,' this painting challenges the dominant male gaze by embracing the female perspective. Duong cites Pablo Picasso's iconic work, 'The Kiss,' created in 1969, as inspiration for this piece.
Another captivating painting entitled 'Between Epicureanism and Stoicism' portrays Duong donning medieval-style armor and removing a mask. This image evokes the artistry of old masters like Velazquez, using clothing symbolically to depict the boundaries between individuals. It echoes a notion that women can allure while maintaining a certain distance, exploring the complexities of personal connections.
Reflecting on her lengthy modeling career, Duong says that her artistic pursuits have only enhanced her campaigns in the fashion industry. Brands have recognized the value of having an artist with talent and beauty represent their products. Even after retiring as a model, Duong has received numerous offers from brands seeking to align themselves with women who radiate both inner and outer beauty.
Duong acknowledges the positive changes in the fashion industry, emphasizing the growing inclusivity in terms of size and age. The rise of mature women models in their 50s and 60s demonstrates a shift towards celebrating beauty at every stage of life. She appreciates the opportunity to be part of this transformation, advocating for women to embrace their age and claim visibility in society. Duong finds it gratifying to challenge stereotypes and show the world the power of women who age gracefully.
As she prepares to unveil her latest exhibition, Anh Duong continues to captivate audiences with her artistry and thought-provoking explorations of gender, fashion, and identity. Through her striking self-portraits, she extends an invitation to ponder the complexities of the human experience. Duong's artwork serves as a testament to the evolution of the fashion industry and the power of self-expression through visual art.
