Deviant Ornaments

In the book that accompanies the exhibition Deviant Ornaments at the National Museum of Oslo you’ll see a broad spectrum of works and techniques, which depict or hint at diverse sexualities in different ways: from the explicit to the coded and ornamental. Historical tiles, textiles and illustrations are displayed side by side with contemporary installations, paintings and sculptures.

“Deviant Ornaments” spans more than a thousand years and four continents, with works by more than 30 artists, craftspeople and producers from across the Islamic world. Some of the historical works are of unknown origin, and more is known about the context they were made in, than about the people who made them. It explores historical periods full of transformations, translations and exchanges across cultures and borders.

This catalogue begins with an essay by external curator Noor Bhangu, followed by thematic essays by Dr. Anjali Arondekar, Dr. Andrew Gayed, and Dr. Laura U. Marks. The essays are accompanied by an interview with Oslo-based activist Rana Issa, a section on terminology, and curatorial texts on exhibited artworks.

• Language: Norwegian and English
• Format: Hardcover
• Pages: 168
• Size: 28 × 20 cm
• Author: Noor Bhangu, Kristian Wikborg Wiese (eds.)
• Publication Year: 2026
• Publisher: The National Museum (Nasjonalmuseet)
• ISBN: 9788281541689