What's Happening?
The Contemporary Art Museum of St. Louis is hosting an exhibition titled 'And I Saw New Heavens and a New Earth,' featuring the works of surrealist artists Claude Cahun and Marcel Moore. The exhibition, running through August 9, 2026, highlights the creative
legacy of these gender non-conforming artists who were active during the 20th century. The show includes a variety of artworks such as photomontages, intimate portraits, and drawings, emphasizing the collaborative nature of their work. The exhibition also sheds light on their resistance efforts during the Nazi occupation of Jersey in World War II, where they used art as a form of defiance against oppression.
Why It's Important?
This exhibition is significant as it brings attention to the often overlooked contributions of Marcel Moore alongside Claude Cahun, challenging traditional narratives in art history that tend to focus on individual genius. By highlighting their collaborative efforts, the exhibition offers a nuanced understanding of their work and relationship. Additionally, the exhibition underscores the role of art as a form of resistance, showcasing how Cahun and Moore used their creativity to oppose Nazi forces during World War II. This historical context enriches the understanding of their art and its impact on contemporary discussions around gender and identity.
