AIDS (A Project of the Public Art Fund Inc.) 1989

Curator: This print by General Idea boldly states "AIDS" in red capital letters against a vivid field of blue and green. What's your initial reaction? Editor: The colors are strikingly cheerful, almost disorientingly so, considering the subject matter. There's a tension between the bright palette and the gravity of the word itself. Curator: It directly references Robert Indiana's iconic "LOVE" image, a familiar symbol of the 1960s. General Idea appropriated it to address the AIDS crisis in the 80s and 90s. Editor: Exactly. It reframes a well-known image of universal affection to confront a disease that was heavily stigmatized and politicized. It serves as a reminder of societal indifference. Curator: By mimicking the "LOVE" design, the artwork carries a cultural weight, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable truths. Editor: It's a poignant example of how art can act as a mirror, reflecting our fears, prejudices, and the need for compassion. Curator: I find myself contemplating how visual symbols can transform over time, adapting to cultural shifts and carrying complex emotional burdens. Editor: It makes me think about the ongoing fight for health equity and the role of art in challenging systems of power.