The Art of Twosomes
When I asked my parents if they would like something to eat, my Mum piped up, "We'ŗe not hungry." Do you think she had him fitted with a gastroscope? (A gastroscope is a tube with a camera and a light at the end, allowing doctors and wives to view the inside of the digestive tract.) Maybe they are both on Ozempic. Who knows.
Damian Hirst - Hymn 1999
From a very early age, I was expected to get married and become part of a "We're not hungry" partnership. I have a Charlotte Tilbury eyeshadow duo set, and I love the moon and sun, but I definitely do not want to know what is going on in a bloke's stomach - especially after he has downed mac and cheese.
The first time I got wind of romantically involved creative duos was at Ogilvy and Mather. Charlie and Emma. A married creative team. Every lunchtime she would walk around to his side of the desk and kiss him before popping out to fetch the tuna and mayo sarnies. There was no sign of a gastroscope. Maybe she was psychic.
There was another couple with a ladyš fashion boutique in Cornwall. You know, one of those ones with yellow acetate-covered windows to stop the sun from fading the little black numbers. It was called "Shenor" (Sheila and Norman) Do you think Norman was trying on the red hot flirty frocks out the back? I do hope so.
Living and working together is a big ask. You can scrap phrases. "How was your day dear?" and "Hi Honey, I'm home" for a start. Some people must find it incredibly rewarding. I guess creative peeps love bouncing ideas off each other. So why not do it with your soul mate? I would like to do that, just not 24/7. However, throwing dirty suggestions around the bedroom could be a thing. Did I just say that?
On Thursday night all my couple scepticism went out the twindow. I met Rob and Nick Carter. Well, Nick actually Rob was busy chatting elsewhere (good sign). The “Direct Exposure” Exhibition harnesses light and radiation to reveal hidden structures, ghostly traces, and fleeting impressions. The Carters’ work transforms objects - whether diamonds, animals, or still-life vessels - into ephemeral imprints, where solid forms dissolve into shadow and light.
The exhibition was so varied. I am finding it hard to choose my top five. Anyways, it should be the top two, no?
Seven Decanters Photogram - Rob and Nick Carter -2016
Positive and Negative Painting Photograph Vase of Flowers with a curtain - Rob and Nick Carter.
I know I was only supposed to be sharing two pieces from the show but I will throw in some food just in case Rob's hungry. Plus, I was blown away. It was a rollercoaster of a ride.
Lobster after Adraen Coorte by Rob and Nick Carter - 2024
Grapes after Adraen Coorte by Rob and Nick Carter - 2024
Other duoš include Gilbert and George. They eat at the Mangal at 8pm every single night. It’s the Turkish Restaurant on Arcola St in Hackney. It is next to my apartment. I haven't spoken to them (yet). They're more meat and two veg in my mind than a doner wrap and chips. The Gilbert and George Centre opened in 2023 on Brick Lane. It's worth a little look. Make sure you wear a suit.
Penis (16 Parts) - Gilbert and George 1978
Christo and Jeanne Claude worked under the name Christo (typical) because of the prejudices against female artists. Later they credited works to both Christo and Jeanne-Claude. They flew in separate planes (I like the idea of that, not beds though) in case one crashed so the other could continue their work. Christo, famously ate a whole garlic daily. That would be me and him done.
Finally, Tim Noble and Sue Webster, I know nothing about. I probably should. A hot guy I met at Rob and Nick Carter's exhibition told me about them. I reckon he will be in a twosome with me in no time after he reads this. You never know it could be a meeting of minds. I’m not interested in his stomach.
Much Love
Julesx
*Cover photo: Gilbert and George