GLENN LUTZ ‘A MACHINE THAT MAKES’ : EXHIBITION & THERE’S LIGHT BOOK LAUNCH

A MACHINE THAT MAKES examines themes related to commodification, identity, and the philosophy of "Collective Consciousness." Utilising light boxes as a metaphor for enlightenment, Lutz interrogates the medium as a form of communication and its utilisation in pursuing one’s attention. As a result, Lutz asks the viewer questions about appropriation and exploitation through works that ironically critique the commercialisation of Black men and through a post-historical lens.

“What I’m discovering in my artistic process is how resilient blackness is. I think the essence of blackness may be adaptability; it may be this ability to shape-shift and survive by any means necessary” – Yashua Klos

There’s Light: Artworks & Conversations Examining Black Masculinity, Identity & Mental Well-Being is an expansive new anthology of artworks and interviews showcasing the intricacies of contemporary Black male identities, brought together by author and conceptual artist Glenn Lutz (@glenn_lutz).

Bringing together interventions from leading luminaries across literary and artistic disciplines, There’s Light examines themes related to Black male identities, sexuality, masculinity, and mental health. The book showcases intimate artworks and insightful conversations that shed new light on experiences such as overcoming inherited trauma, systemic racism and social injustices, establishing oneself as a Black male artist, and ultimately, offering avenues for hope as the title of the book suggests. While addressing challenging themes, There’s Light also serves as a champion of the power of unity and the bringing together of multiple Black male voices. Created to inspire future generations to embrace themselves fully, There’s Light delivers a wake-up call that there is no time like the present to overcome institutional hurdles.

Glenn Lutz says: “When we unpack our traumas individually and in communal settings; when we focus on our similarities and engage in healthy, vulnerable conversations with growth-minded individuals, and when we examine our biases, stereotypes, and experiences honestly, we begin to heal. That is what There’s Light is. It doesn’t only serve as a catalyst for healthy change in the black community, but it also creates light. I believe that light can be a small shift in the ever-growing battle for peace and justice in these tumultuous times.”

About Glenn Lutz

Glenn Lutz is a contemporary artist with a multi-disciplinary practice. He released his first book with Simon & Schuster titled, Go F*ck, I Mean, Find Yourself in 2018. In addition to creating books, he works in performance, photography, sculpture, and hip-hop under the moniker Zenn Lu. Lutz’s work examines topics such as identity, spirituality, mental health, and the cause and effect of the injustices faced by the black community. He approaches his craft with questions rather than answers using storytelling as a tool to examine his research Interests. www.glennlutz.com | @glenn_lutz

Publishers’ information:

July, 2022 | $69.99, £45.99 | Hardback | 290 pages | 333 limited, 333 Edition copies and unlimited print-on-demand copies of the For Us Edition. Available from: theres-light.com and select bookstores worldwide.