ART HISTORY COURSES
Hidden Histories Part 2
A Queer and Trans Art Journey
Uncover the untold stories of queer and trans artists from 1930 onward
Did you know that Grant Wood, the artist behind American Gothic (1930), was queer? While his famous painting is often seen as a straightforward depiction of rural America, a closer look at Wood’s life reveals a much more complex story. His personal experiences, his close relationships with male assistants and his coded artistic expressions challenge the traditional narrative surrounding his work. As the Whitney Museum’s recent retrospective put it, “Wood’s homosexuality is the code that unlocks the truth to his art.”
A vital continuation of Hidden Histories Part 1, this course offers an inclusive lens on the art of the late 20th and 21st centuries.
In this innovative online art history course, we’ll uncover the hidden histories of queer and trans artists from 1930 onward, exploring how gender and sexuality have shaped art and society across time and across the Atlantic. From Andy Warhol’s subversive pop aesthetics and Robert Rauschenberg’s intimate collaborations, to the bold activism of David Wojnarowicz, the haunting photography of Peter Hujar, and the sensual self-portraits of Catherine Opie, we trace how queer and trans artists have challenged dominant narratives and opened new visual worlds.
WHEN
Mondays @ 1:00-2:30 pm ET
September 8 - 29, 2025
Wednesdays @ 9:00-10:30 am ET September 10 - October 1, 2025
🎥 Can't make it live? Recorded sessions are available at a discounted price.
WHERE
On Zoom from your home or office, this course is taught by art historian and queer art specialist Justin Polera, offering fascinating insights into the hidden histories of queer and trans artists. Hosted by Lauren Jimerson, the course includes engaging discussions designed to deepen your understanding of the material in a welcoming and inclusive space.
All sessions are recorded and can be streamed at your convenience.
INFO
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Webinars are sold in packs of 4
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Each webinar is limited in size to enable lively and engaging discussions.
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Held on the same day and time each week, each session is 90 minutes.
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No background in art necessary. All that's required is a curious mind.
Taught by art historian and queer art specialist Justin Polera, this online art history course offers a fresh and insightful perspective on art history, revealing what has long been hidden in plain sight. With extensive expertise in queer art and culture and extensive experience in the Berlin and New York art scenes, Justin brings a compelling and engaging approach to this fascinating subject.
Known for his sharp wit and dynamic storytelling, Justin makes complex ideas accessible and exciting—ensuring a thought-provoking and enjoyable experience. To further enrich the course, Lauren Jimerson will host the sessions, fostering lively discussions and deeper connections.
✨ Join us in a welcoming and inclusive space as we explore the untold stories, radical aesthetics, and creative resilience of queer and trans artists throughout history. No background in art required—just curiosity and an open mind!
Join us!
Are you passionate about art, overlooked histories, and amplifying voices that matter?
Whether you're part of a museum, cultural institution, club, or collective—or an individual eager to explore the transformative power of art—Art with Friends invites you to discover dynamic, online art history courses that celebrate women artists, queer creators, and marginalized communities whose stories deserve to be seen and heard.
✨ Join Art with Friends community to stay connected to upcoming courses and meaningful conversations that inspire reflection, spark dialogue, and spotlight the artists who’ve too often been left out of the frame.