Avram Finkelstein

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A pink triangle against a black backdrop with the words 'Silence%3DDeath' representing an advertisement for The Silence %3D Death Project used by permission by ACT-UP, The AIDS Coalition To Unleash Power. Wellcome L0052822

Avram Finkelstein is an American artist, writer, and activist known for his work in the fields of HIV/AIDS activism and queer art. He is a founding member of the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP) and the art collective Gran Fury.

Early Life and Education

Finkelstein was born in Brooklyn, New York City. He attended the School of Visual Arts in New York, where he studied fine arts and developed an interest in political activism.

Activism

Finkelstein's activism began in the early 1980s, during the height of the AIDS epidemic. He co-founded ACT UP, a grassroots political group working to end the AIDS crisis through direct action, medical research, treatment, and advocacy. Finkelstein was instrumental in creating some of the group's most iconic visual campaigns, including the "Silence = Death" poster, which became a symbol of the fight against AIDS.

Gran Fury

In addition to his work with ACT UP, Finkelstein was a founding member of Gran Fury, an art collective that used graphic design and public art to address issues related to AIDS and LGBTQ+ rights. Gran Fury's works were known for their bold, confrontational style and were displayed in public spaces, galleries, and museums.

Art and Writing

Finkelstein's art often explores themes of identity, memory, and social justice. His work has been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums, including the Whitney Museum of American Art and the New Museum.

As a writer, Finkelstein has contributed to various publications, including Artforum, The Village Voice, and The New York Times. He has also authored books on art and activism, sharing his experiences and insights from decades of work in these fields.

Legacy

Finkelstein's contributions to art and activism have had a lasting impact on the fight against AIDS and the broader struggle for LGBTQ+ rights. His work continues to inspire new generations of activists and artists.

See Also

• AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power
• Gran Fury
• HIV/AIDS activism
• Queer art