Need to Know: Gio Black Peter

Photo Credit: Gio Black Peter / gioblackpeter.com

Provocative and seductive at a time when mainstream conformity threatens the vibrancy of queer art forged by oppression, Gio Black Peter's work breathes authenticity. The New York-based artist is bound neither by the parameters of traditional artistic expression nor society's notions of morality. From his New York City subway map series to painted glory holes, gang bangs set to retro karaoke hits, and urine-drenched theatrical performances, Black Peter's work is multifarious -- and a little nefarious, too. And with his distinct multimedia approach -- incorporating painting, drawing, video, writing, and acting -- and characteristic form, his work is easily recognizable in the international settings where it's been shown.

Overt sexuality is a common theme throughout much of Black Peter's work, but it's merely one dimension of it -- a conduit that allows viewers to delve into deeper levels of understanding. "If you look at my work, past the fact that the characters are nude," Black Peter says, "you will notice I also address violence, alienation, oppression, redemption, defiance, and love."

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I Feel It Everywhere

Pain Is Good

The Hell You Will

Chronic Insomniac Garden Date

I'll See You Around

Yolo Tadzio

Dual

Cirro

Looking Like A Little Ghost

Communion Paul

Little Devil

Mayfly

Xmas Boxers

You Can't Kill Me

Garden Snake

Sleepwalker

You Might Get Me Tomorrow But Never Today