June 4 – 27

In 1920, Marcel Duchamp, largely considered the father of conceptual art, collaborated with Man Ray in the creation of a female alter-ego for Duchamp: Rrose Sélavy. The artists intended the name as a pun on the French pronunciation “Eros, C’est la Vie” which translate to “Love [or Sex], It is Life.”. As with all things, Duchamp aimed to break barriers, test cultural boundaries and re-think, if not fully deconstruct, how we view art, the world and ourselves.

Exactly one century later, I find myself in a time and place where no one would think twice were they to see Rrose Sélavy walk down the street. Who hasn’t seen a cis man wearing (and pulling off) a gorgeous dress on Capitol Hill in this city? Certainly, we still have miles to go before the queer community can begin to envision equality as a reality. This is, of course, especially true for trans people and queer people of color. But still, it is something vital and beautiful to celebrate Pride month as part of the LGBTQ+ community and to reflect on the progress that has been made.

As we have seen time and time again, progress necessarily follows representation. Queer visibility in the arts means everything, which is why an exhibition celebrating queer artwork and artists seems particularly appropriate—to reflect on our history as well as find hope for the future.

To continue supporting our community, Gallery 110 will be donating proceeds from sales from the exhibition to Gay City, a non-profit that provides invaluable resources and health services to Seattle’s LGBTQ+ population. Perhaps now, more than ever, it is critical that we support artists and organizations like Gay City. It is my hope that Eros, C’est la Vie will do both.

Trevor Doak
Director, Gallery 110