LOEWE Conversation #4
Renowned Raconteur and Critic Fran Lebowitz evokes New York in the 1970s and 80s

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The LOEWE Foundation´s fourth entry in the ‘LOEWE Conversations’ series hosted writer, humorist and cultural commentator Fran Lebowitz in conversation with New York art dealer Gracie Mansion.

On the occasion of the exhibition devoted to artists Peter Hujar & David Wojnarowicz taking place at LOEWE Gran Via as part of PHotoESPAÑA 2018, the evening's distinguished guests brought to life the vibrant creative scene of downtown Manhattan in the 1970's and 80s – a historic moment and place that gave rise to seminal social, artistic and political developments that still reverberate. Having personally experienced this iconic era, Lebowitz was uniquely gifted to give a first-hand account – in her signature wry, acutely observant style – of the urban landscape, fervent energy and indelible characters that were the context in which Wojnarowicz and Lebowitz' close friend Hujar created the poignant artworks exhibited at the Gran Via space.

About Fran Lebowitz

Fran Lebowitz is one of New York City’s most distinctive voices, known for her wit and extraordinary command of language, evident in opinionated, insightful, blunt, and invariably entertaining essays and interviews on a wide range of subjects. A fixture of New York cultural life for over 4 decades --Andy Warhol hired her to be a columnist at his magazine Interview-- Lebowitz remains one of today's sharpest social commentators -- the New York Times Book Review called her an ‘important humorist in the classic tradition.’ She has written best-selling books and even appeared in TV shows and feature films. Lebowitz is equally known for her sense of style and was once named one of the year’s most stylish women by Vanity Fair.

Fran Lebowitz, photo by Brigitte Lacombe.

About Gracie Mansion

Independent art consultant Gracie Mansion was a pioneer of the legendary East Village art scene, opening her first gallery in her apartment in 1982. She continued to exhibit contemporary art -- including the works of Peter Hujar and David Wojnarowicz-- through 2002. Mansion has served as an expert adviser to many art organisations, authored articles in various publications, and is a frequent lecturer at institutions and museums worldwide. She is a member of the Board of Directors of the Emily Harvey and Feature Hudson Foundations in New York.

Gracie Mansion, photo by Sally Davies.