Publication of 'Emanations: On Leonilson', featuring an essay by Andrew Durbin

Lisson is pleased to announce the publication of Emanations: On Leonilson, a new booklet featuring an essay by Andrew Durbin to accompany the ongoing exhibition of works by José Leonilson at Lisson New York.

Published to coincide with the exhibition, the essay considers Leonilson’s practice through his use of materials, personal symbolism and the artists who shaped his thinking, including Eva Hesse, Paul Klee, Duane Michals, Blinky Palermo, Robert Ryman, Lygia Clark, Hélio Oiticica and Arthur Bispo do Rosário. Durbin traces the changing character of Leonilson’s work from the 1970s and 1980s through to the drawings and embroideries of his final years.

The essay also considers the profound shift in Leonilson’s practice following his HIV diagnosis in 1991. Unable to paint, the artist turned increasingly to drawing and embroidery, developing works of striking simplicity and emotional intensity. Among the works discussed are A.P. (1991), José (1991) and El Puerto (1992), exploring Leonilson’s engagement with material, language and self-portraiture, alongside themes of disappearance, intimacy and the sacred.

Emanations: On Leonilson by Andrew Durbin is available alongside the exhibition, on view at Lisson Gallery New York through 24 October 2026.

Shown here: Emanations: On Leonilson, featuring an essay by Andrew Durbin. © Estate of Leonilson, Courtesy Lisson.