Sue Tilley’s definitive biography of Leigh Bowery, the man Boy George once called “modern art on legs,” returns in a vibrant new edition, updated with never-before-seen photographs and a fresh chapter reflecting Bowery’s enduring legacy. With the upcoming Tate Modern solo exhibition devoted to the artist opening on 27 February, the rerelease of the book is timely.
This richly detailed and deeply personal account is not just a biography—it’s a love letter to a singular figure who defied categorisation and left an indelible mark on art, fashion, and club culture.
From his inception as a creative young gay male in the Melbourne suburbs to his explosive arrival on the London club scene in 1981, Leigh Bowery’s life was a whirlwind of creativity, excess, and reinvention. Tilley, Bowery’s closest confidante and best friend, chronicles his extraordinary journey with candid wit and affection, capturing the essence of a man who was equal parts artist, performer, musician, club promoter, and fashion designer.
Tilley’s narrative is as much a portrait of Bowery as a vivid snapshot of 1980s London. She brilliantly evokes the hedonistic energy of the era, weaving together tales of their shared adventures—wild nights out, outrageous outfits, holidays, flatmates, and the unapologetic pursuit of a good time. Her anecdotes are laced with humour and warmth, offering an intimate glimpse into their friendship and the vibrant subculture they inhabited.
The book also delves into Bowery’s impact on the art world, particularly his close relationship with Lucian Freud, who famously painted him multiple times. Tilley provides a behind-the-scenes look at these sessions, revealing the dynamic between artist and muse. She doesn’t shy away from the darker moments, either, recounting Bowery’s final days with a poignant yet unsentimental honesty that underscores the tragedy of his death from AIDS in 1994.
What sets this biography apart is Tilley’s unique perspective. As Bowery’s closest friend, she writes with an insider’s authority, yet her voice remains accessible and engaging. The updated edition benefits from including new photographs, offering readers a visual feast of Bowery’s flamboyant costumes and performances and a new chapter that reflects on his lasting influence.
Written with the full cooperation of Bowery’s family and friends—including the late Lucian Freud, Damien Hirst, and Michael Clark—Leigh Bowery: The Life and Times of an Icon is a fitting tribute to a man who lived life as art. Tilley’s affection for her friend shines through every page, making this book essential reading for anyone interested in the intersections of art, fashion, and subculture.
Sue Tilley has given us a portrait of Leigh Bowery that is as bold, colourful, and unforgettable as the man himself. – PCR