Work in Progress: Honor Titus

The Los Angeles-based artist discusses the enduring themes of class and beauty that drive his work and his reluctance to predict what happens next

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BY Honor Titus AND Livia Russell in Frieze Seoul , Interviews | 02 AUG 24

Honor Titus is renowned for work that pierces the opulent veneer of Western culture, offering windows onto moments of isolation, loss and desire. Frieze Seoul 2024 is Titus’s first solo art fair exhibition in Asia, presented by Timothy Taylor. Reflecting on issues of social class and racial dynamics, Titus debuts six new paintings that take his approach to colour and composition in increasingly graphic and abstract directions.

Honor reading the paper. Photo: Chris Chang
Honor Titus reading the paper. Photo: Chris Chang

Livia Russell Can you talk about your new work for Frieze Seoul? 

Honor Titus I'll be sending a few paintings to Frieze Seoul which contain a rumination on two of my favourite things: alluring women and pop art. 

LR How does this work fit within your œuvre?  

HT I think that ideas of class and social structure are to be sought with my work. Some may also say leisure and beauty. I think that these works are a continuation of these ideas, while also serving a more graphic and somewhat abstracted approach.

Honor Titus, A la mode, 2024, which will be part of Honor's presentation with Timothy Taylor at Frieze Seoul 2024, next to dusty guitars
Honor Titus, A la mode, 2024. The painting will be part of Titus’s presentation with Timothy Taylor at Frieze Seoul 2024. Photo: the artist

LR Are there new sources of inspiration in your current work?  

HT As always, literature and beauty.  

LR What does your day in the studio look like right now?  

HT Sunny and loud. I'm working next to a boxing gym at the moment, and I sometimes hear the bell ring to signify the next round. I've been meaning to get over there, but I haven’t had the time.

A tableaux of items in Honor’s studio: a tennis ball and a French jazz magazine (plus two apples, for sustenance!)
A tableaux of items in Titus’s studio: a tennis ball and a French jazz magazine (plus two apples, for sustenance!). Photo: Honor Titus

LR How do you see your practice developing?  

HT Learning and growing always have a way of showing up on the canvas. If I continue to do that, the question will answer itself. For someone so literature-leaning, I sure don't like to give myself a narrative.

Honor reading the paper. Photo: Chris Chang
Honor Titus reading the paper. Photo: Chris Chang

Further Information

Frieze Seoul, COEX, 4 – 7 September 2024.

Limited tickets for Frieze Seoul are now on sale – don’t miss out, buy yours now. Alternatively, become a member to enjoy premier access, multi-day entry, exclusive guided tours and more.

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A dedicated online Frieze Viewing Room opens in the week before the fair, offering audiences a first look at the presentations and the ability to engage with the fair remotely. 

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Main Image: Honor Titus reading the paper. Photo: Chris Chang

Honor Titus (b. 1989, Brooklyn, New York) is an American artist who lives and works in Los Angeles.

Livia Russell is a writer based in London, UK.

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