Hide/Seek: Difference and Desire in American Portraiture

This insightful exploration delves deep into the intricate connections between identity, desire, and portrayal in modern American portraiture. By analyzing works from various artists, the authors unveil how the representation of sexual difference has historically shaped artistic expression and the reception of portraits. The narrative weaves together art history, cultural critique, and social theory, inviting readers to reconsider the familiar highlights of American art through a lens that emphasizes the complexities of sexuality and identity.

Through a multidisciplinary approach, the book highlights key figures and movements while also shedding light on those often overlooked in traditional art discussions. It challenges conventional notions and introduces a new framework for understanding how desire and difference inform the visual language of portraiture. By doing so, it opens up a rich dialogue about the intersection of art and the evolving landscape of American social dynamics.