Cate White's paintings exemplify camp aesthetics with their playful use of materials, yet they reveal a deeper emotional tenderness. Her recent solo show MEN at Small Works SF features portraits of 70s and 80s working-class men, channeling themes of nostalgia and cultural commentary. Influenced by Mark Fisher's idea of hauntology, White's work reflects society's obsessive look at the past, particularly among a younger generation seeking comfort amid modern anxieties. This desire to revisit retro aesthetics highlights the current cultural and political stagnation, making her art both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Cate White’s paintings embody an over-the-top quality characterized as 'camp,' but beneath the surface lies a tenderness that is profoundly moving.
Her solo show MEN features retro portraits of 70s and 80s men, working on multiple levels beyond visual pleasure, reflecting philosophical and societal themes.
Mark Fisher's concept of hauntology resonates in White's work, as nostalgia becomes a way for the current generation to cope with cultural stagnation.
Gen Z’s obsession with retro aesthetics, like that of the TV show Friends, can be understood as a response to the overwhelming negativity of today's world.
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