Intimate Companions: A Triography of George Platt Lynes, Paul Cadmus, Lincoln Kirstein, and Their Circle

Photographer George Platt Lynes, painter Paul Cadmus, and critic Lincoln Kirstein played a pivotal role in shaping the institutions of the American art world from the late 1920s to the early 1950s. The three individuals, along with their overlapping circle of friends, lovers, and collaborators, created a remarkable world of gay aesthetics and desire in art.

Through extensive interviews with surviving members of their circle and unprecedented access to personal papers, journals, and previously unreleased photos, author David Leddick has resurrected the influences of this now-vanished art world, as well as the lives and loves of all three artists, in this groundbreaking biography.

The book delves into the intricate relationships and artistic collaborations that defined this important era in American art. Lynes, Cadmus, and Kirstein were not only renowned for their individual contributions, but also for the way they intersected and influenced one another's work. Their shared vision and personal connections shaped the cultural landscape of the time, challenging traditional norms and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

By exploring the lives and legacies of these three pivotal figures, the biography offers a unique perspective on the evolution of the American art world during a transformative period. It sheds light on the ways in which their personal relationships and artistic pursuits were inextricably linked, and how their collective efforts helped to establish new institutions and platforms for the display and appreciation of art.

Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, the author has breathed new life into the stories of Lynes, Cadmus, and Kirstein, highlighting their individual achievements while also emphasizing the importance of their collaborative endeavors. This comprehensive account not only illuminates the artistic and cultural significance of their work, but also provides a deeper understanding of the social and political context in which they operated.

The book's exploration of the lives and loves of these three artists is a testament to the enduring power of art to transcend boundaries and challenge societal norms. By shedding light on this influential yet largely forgotten chapter of American art history, the biography serves as a vital contribution to our understanding of the evolution of artistic expression and the complex interplay between personal, social, and creative forces.

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