THE WORLD OF GILBERT & GEORGE
Feature-length film, written and directed by Gilbert & George, 69 min, 1981, © Arts Council England

Poetic narration combines with vivid imagery that moves between the startlingly beautiful, the humorous and the absurd. Church spires and city streets, youths and drunks, dancing and tea drinking all take on an affecting symbolism when viewed from the unique perspective of Gilbert & George.

GORDON'S MAKES US DRUNK
Video, 12 min, 1972

Gin and tonic became Gilbert & George's drink of choice in 1971. They picked Gordon's because it was 'the best gin'. For this film, they have added their names to the bottle's label, on either side of the Royal crest. The artists are shown seated at a table, getting drunk to a soundtrack of Elgar and Grieg.
View in the Tate Collection

IN THE BUSH
Video, 16 min, 1972

Gilbert & George made several early pictures and videos with a rural setting. In the Bush consists of a single take, with the figures of the artists appearing and disappearing among the distant trees, simultaneously encouraging and frustrating the viewer’s attempt to scrutinise their furtive movements.
View in the Tate Collection

A PORTRAIT OF THE ARTISTS AS YOUNG MEN
Video, 7 min, 1970

In 1969, Gilbert & George began to present themselves as ‘living sculptures’ and developed the mask-like personas that are presented here. The title of this work suggests a painting rather than a video, and the slowed-down action suggests the long, scrutinizing gaze of an artist examining his model.
View in the Tate Collection