Celebrating the Legacy of Patrick Cowley Through Art in Pittsburgh
A new art exhibition is set to capture the essence of a groundbreaking figure in music history, Patrick Cowley. This piece of work, titled Hi-NRG, will be showcased at the 707 Penn Gallery in Pittsburgh from July 25 until November 2. The gallery is part of the Pittsburgh Cultural District, an area known for its vibrant cultural offerings and artistic diversity.
The exhibition is the creation of Ben Schonberger, a multi-media artist based in Pittsburgh. His work draws on the visual culture of the gay underground and the sonic legacy of Cowley, who played a pivotal role in shaping the Hi-NRG genre. This form of music, characterized by its fast tempo and energetic beats, was particularly popular among the LGBTQ+ community during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
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Schonberger’s installation layers vintage print media to create a dialogue between images of authority and desire. This juxtaposition reflects a significant period in history when the LGBTQ+ community made strides in gaining rights, only to face a major setback with the emergence of the AIDS crisis in the 1980s. One of the standout pieces in the exhibition features an old photograph of a police officer in tight pants, holding a baton. The image evokes feelings of lust while also highlighting the potential threat of authority.
In Tito Way, an alleyway near the gallery, Schonberger has placed five large images of himself clutching Patrick Cowley records. This direct approach serves as a powerful reminder of Cowley’s influence and helps bring his name back into public consciousness.
Who Was Patrick Cowley?
Patrick Cowley was born in 1950 in Buffalo, New York. At the age of 21, he moved to San Francisco to study music, with a particular focus on the workings of early synthesizers. His talent quickly caught the attention of Sylvester, a legendary singer, who invited Cowley to contribute to his music after hearing some of his synth work.
Together, they created iconic disco classics such as “You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)” and “Dance (Disco Heat).” Cowley also achieved solo success with tracks like “Menergy” and “Megatron Man,” which celebrated aspects of gay cruising culture. His music was also featured in many gay adult entertainment films of the time.
Tragically, Cowley was one of the first residents of San Francisco to succumb to AIDS. He passed away in 1982 at the age of just 32, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire artists and musicians today.
Art in Pittsburgh: A Cultural Hub
The Pittsburgh Cultural District spans 14 square blocks in downtown Pittsburgh. Once the city’s red light district, it has transformed into a dynamic hub for culture, art, food, and community. The district hosts an evening gallery crawl every quarter, with the next one scheduled for July 25—the same day as the launch of the Hi-NRG exhibition.
In addition to the galleries, the area boasts a variety of outdoor, public installations, including those in the picturesque Agnes R. Katz Plaza. The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, a non-profit arts organization founded in 1984, oversees the entire district.
Pittsburgh is also home to several other notable art venues. The Andy Warhol Museum, located in the city, houses the largest collection of Warhol’s art in the world and offers various special events throughout the year. Art lovers can also explore classical works at The Frick Pittsburgh, view a vast photo archive at the Carnegie Museum of Art, and experience contemporary pieces and installations at the Mattress Factory.
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future
The impact of the AIDS crisis on the LGBTQ+ community remains a significant part of history. There are numerous ways to honor those lost to the disease, from visiting memorials to participating in community events. The National AIDS Memorial serves as a steward of the AIDS Memorial Quilt, which contains over 200,000 objects, cards, and letters.
As the art scene in Pittsburgh continues to thrive, it provides a platform for remembering and celebrating the contributions of individuals like Patrick Cowley. By bringing attention to his work and legacy, exhibitions like Hi-NRG help ensure that his influence endures for future generations.
