Heroes: A Tribute, Collector's Edition

Book excerpt: Heroes: A Tribute celebrates the lives and contributions of 49 brilliant, creative figures who were early victims of HIV/AIDS—unique portraits by artist Doug Meyer reflect the core of each individual and are paired with insightful obituaries. In Heroes: A Tribute artist Doug Meyer celebrates the lives and accomplishments of creative pioneers who were victims of HIV/AIDS in the epidemic’s early years. Brilliant figures from the worlds of art, design, film, and dance are honored—including Robert Mapplethorpe, Keith Haring, Rudolph Nureyev, Freddie Mercury, Rock Hudson, John Duka, Tina Chow, Klaus Nomi, Halston, and Angelo Donghia. The Collector’s Edition of Heroes, a limited edition of 100, is housed in a colorful, translucent acrylic slipcase. The edition is stamped, signed, and numbered by Doug Meyer, and includes two different prints of the 49th hero with collage elements applied. Heroes began as an installation at a Design Industry Foundation to Fight AIDS event and grew into a traveling exhibition. The portraits vary in form, material, and style, and incorporate drawing, painting, sculpture, and photography. Meyer blends techniques and media, such as terracotta, églomisé, papier-mâché, and computer-generated collage. The text includes essays by Meyer and writer Beth Dunlop and brief biographies that highlight each hero’s cultural contributions. This beautifully designed book features includes pages from Doug Meyer’s sketchbooks showing his artistic process. A true celebration, Heroes: A Tribute pays homage to these visionary creatives who died too soon, and it teaches younger generations about these important figures. This book will appeal to all who have an interest in art, design, fashion, creativity, gay and LGBTQ issues and history, and more.