Tourmaline
<p>This week on the show we are in the artist’s studio visiting with the one and only Tourmaline. Tourmaline’s work extends across various media and is a magical blend of a very research-oriented practice that brings history to life, and crafting visions of repose, luxury, relaxation, magic and joy – whether it is in the form of video installations, photography, or fashion. To say that her work is interdisciplinary would be an understatement – not only is Tourmaline an accomplished and award winning contemporary artist, whose work can be found at this year’s Venice Bienalle and Art Basel, among countless other exhibitions, but she also works within the context of cinema – for instance the film “Happy Birthday, Marsha!” Which she co-directed, and focuses on the life of legendary trans artist and activist Masha P. Johnson – Tourmaline is also an accomplished writer, her latest being a book coming in 2024 from Penguin Random House’s Tiny Reparations imprint, on the life of Marsha P Johnson. In our chat, we delve deeply into Tourmaline’s process, influences, and also discuss her background as an organizer for abolition and trans and queer rights, and how this background factors into her work. Tune in to hear Tourmaline’s story!</p>
Authors: Ben Fino-Radin
Contributors: Tourmaline
Part of: Art and Obsolescence Podcast