David Wojnarowicz

Galerie Anna Friebe, Cologne
Acquired by the present owner from the above, 1984

Cologne, Galerie Anna Friebe, Neue Arbeiten von David Wojnarowicz, 1984

Unframed. Work is not completely flat and has a slight curve at the top and bottom and at the sides. Hung by a wire from upper wood strip. Rippling and creases thoughout; tears at edges (most likely inherent to artist's medium and intent). Overall surface dust and dirt. VERSO: strips of duct tape lining right edge.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The art of David Wojnarowicz reflects, the harsh experiences of his youth: a difficult home life during childhood, dropping out of high school, hitch-hiking across country, living on the streets. 

Despite claiming that he 'never had what could be described as an art education', he gleaned valuable and quite sophisticated lessons in assemblage and collage from Bay Area artists such as Jess and Bruce Connor, during a stay in San Francisco. 

In 1978 he settled down in East Village, New York, then an incipient art scene animated by makeshift galleries and artists creating work inspired by street art.; it was also a haven of radical politics, squatters, punk rockers and drug dealers.  It was his kind of place; he thrived in the scene, writing books and creating collages with urgent themes and exquisitely harsh imagery. 

In the later 1980s Wojnarowicz was diagnosed with AIDS. The intensely felt expression which had always informed his work, now had a sharply focused purpose, championing the needs of fellow sufferers, advocating tolerance and condemning censorship.  The disease overcame him in 1992, aged 37 and in full pursuit of these goals.