Guise and Dolls: Warhol and Mapplethorpe (Wadsworh Atheneum)

This exhibit is a beautiful and necessary reminder of the ways Warhol and Mapplethorpe were exploring gesture and gender identify half a century ago. The Wadsworth exhibit juxtaposes their work, allowing us to eavesdrop on their conversation, both subtle and blatant, that has been taken up full force by their artistic and social heirs. In keeping with the blue state ethos, the children's alcove allowed for general explanation.