Mogutin’s New Book
February 15, 2008
Slava Mogutin, who remains a polymath of many forms, an incredible poet, a great writer, a notable blogger and radical Russian dissident– is above all else one of the most exciting artists working today. His book Lost Boys (2006), represents a collection of this great artist’s work and compromises a kind of narrative essay. Lost Boys is a telling account of his artistic practice, a not always serious tribute to moments he is passionate about, but often has a sincere rawness. The pure beauty in his photography makes up for what it lacks in refinement. Picking up the book for the first time was like picking up an old friend from the airport, instantly familiar but absolutely thrilling. The photos get better at the end of the book and the last photos are by far the best. Looking at it is like watching an artist find his voice.
His newest book, NYC Go-Go, has an essay by Bruce Benderson. It is another slice into Slava’s world and reveals the semi-underground New York City gay nightlife. It is also a memory of the all but forgotten queer club scene. Our cultural amnesia to this artful way of life only makes these remembrance more telling. I can’t wait to see the book.
–Justin Polera
