Daniel Cooney Fine Art presents the work of the Boston based photographer Jason Byron Gavann. The exhibition Here lies the heart… consists of 25 black and white and color images created between 1980 and 2006 in Boston, Provincetown and Paris.
For over five decades Gavann has documented queer life in Boston and around the world. As a student at UMass Boston in the 1970’s a professor suggested that he “photograph what is most familiar”, Gavann says, “A light went off in my head and I thought, I’ll photograph my friends.” The artist’s journey of finding inspiration in his friendships continues to this day.
Growing up just outside of Boston, Gavann found sanctuary as a teen in the city’s Park Square. The area was a hub for young runaways, drag queens and sex workers. The formative environment influenced his photography as he developed a compassionate eye and yearned for a genuine connection. He learned to seek out compelling people radiating authenticity that would create portraits in celebration of life.
As a contemporary of the “Boston School” artists, Gavann created intimate portraits of Jack Pierson, Mark Morrisroe, Pat Hearn, Sharon Niesp and Tabboo! among others. The portraits will be included in the exhibition as Gavann’s influence on the group is significant, even if not well documented. Pierson says of Gavann, “Jason’s spirit is a gift to us all. I don’t know anyone who makes working at your art and living a beautiful life look better.”
Gavann’s portraits were recently included in Madonna’s “Celebration Tour” to honor artists lost to AIDS. He has exhibited his work domestically and internationally in both group and solo presentations. This year he was featured in Interview Magazine by curator Jackson Davidow.
Jason Byron Gavann : Here lies the heart…
Until December 21, 2024
Daniel Cooney Fine Art
508 West 26 Street, Suite 9C
New York, NY 10001
www.danielcooneyfineart.com
