Bartschland is more than a gorgeous book—it's an invitation to experience the magic, the glamour, and the unapologetic celebration of individuality that defines New York City's nightlife.
In Bartschland, Susanne Bartsch's indelible legacy comes alive as she shares countless moments that have shaped her extraordinary journey. From the opulence of the late 1980s to the present day, Bartsch's innate ability to capture the spirit of the moment shines through.
Legendary Parties and Diverse Events: Bartsch's parties are legendary, serving as a stage for an extraordinary convergence of people from around the world. Visionary artists, sex workers, fashion designers, cabaret stars, queer performers, Harlem ball dancers, go-go girls and boys, drag queens, burlesque amateurs, bodybuilders, twinks, and lipstick lesbians—all find their place in Bartschland.
Inclusivity and Transformation: As New York City's "patron saint of transformation and inclusion," Bartsch’s impact extends far beyond the glittering lights of the nightlife scene. From her iconic boutique that introduced designers like Vivienne Westwood to her philanthropic efforts during the AIDS crisis, Bartsch's influence is immeasurable.
Friends and Collaborators: Throughout the book, Bartsch shares her journey alongside a star-studded cast of friends and of collaborators. From RuPaul to Aquaria, Amanda Lepore, and Joey Arias, these luminaries contribute to the rich tapestry of Bartsch's life.
Discover the tales, the transformations, and the inclusivity that make Bartschland a must-read for anyone seeking a glimpse into the heart of New York's nightlife.
Praise
"Lavishly illustrated[...] A must-read for all lovers of New York, not just club-hoppers."
—PAPER MAGAZINE
"Bartschland is an opulent window into the moments that shaped her legacy as the city’s 'patron saint of transformation and inclusion.'"
—AUTOSTRADDLE, 69 Most Anticipated Queer Books for Spring 2024
"Featuring candid photos from Bartsch’s personal archive and priceless anecdotes from her life, the book is both a time capsule for the past few decades of New York City’s queer club culture and an inspiration for what life outside the normal bounds of 9-to-5 society can look like."
—W MAGAZINE
"This disco-era treasury of another world, in another place and time, will resonate with readers who used to dance until dawn, wore eyeliner without remorse or restraint, and, as part of New York City's glittery Bartschland, were, to Susanne, ‘the people I am endlessly blessed to call my chosen family.’ This commemorative photograph essay in words and images is worth its weight in gold lamé."
—BAY AREA REPORTER
