Untitled (Invitation for Opening Reception of the Venetian Glass Series at Holly Solomon Gallery)

This small assemblage was sent out by Holly Solomon Gallery in New York in 1985 as an announcement for an exhibition of Lanigan-Schmidt’s work. It is emblematic of Lanigan-Schmidt’s practice, encompassing elements of kitsch and religion with which he has worked since the 1960s. The postcard depicts Saint Anthony of Padua, the saint of lost things (and people). As Lanigan-Schmidt made this card, he was surrounded by the constant specter of death in his community—whether from AIDS, sex work, assault, or drug use. Although playful, Lanigan-Schmidt’s works in tinsel, foils, Mylar, and cellophane are fragile and discolor or crumple over time. He is one of the few surviving activists who was present at the 1969 Stonewall Inn rebellion in New York City that launched the queer liberation movement.