For the first time in London in more than 20 years, Jack Pierson is the subject of an exhibition and it’s running at Lisson Gallery until 3rd August. The spectacular show featuring mixed media installations, explores themes of love, queerness, and poetry.

“I think photography has always been the queer medium; of all the modes of expression, photography is the gay one,” Jack Pierson said about his means of expression. The exhibition, which includes his trademark word sculptures, photographs, and a series of folded photographic works, immerses visitors into a realm where personal and autobiographical narratives collide with those that are distinctly universal. It’s engaging and obviously, very sexy too.

Through these new works, Pierson turns the white walls of Lisson Gallery into a love letter to the LGBT community as well and that’s perfect for Pride month. Yellow Array (2024) sits at the centre, and viewers are greeted with the shimmering gold words, “YOU ARE THE SUN.” Throughout this body of work, there is a moment of mutual recognition—of seeing and being seen—that never ceases to astound and please. Pierson reminds us that, like language, photography is a living medium with its own emotions and perspectives.

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Image: Study, Black & White and Color (Matt), 2024© Jack Pierson. Courtesy Lisson Gallery and YOU ARE THE SUN, 2024© Jack Pierson. Courtesy Lisson Gallery