The statement reflects a moment of discovery and cultural immersion experienced by Amanda Lepore when she began working with Susanne Bartsch. Essentially, Lepore conveys that her exposure to the term "camp" was limited until this professional collaboration, after which it became a recurring part of her vocabulary and understanding.
At a deeper level, this quote speaks about the transformative power of new experiences and environments in shaping our lexicon and worldview. The introduction of camp—a concept associated with exaggerated, theatrical expression—into Lepore's life represents a significant shift in how she perceives art, fashion, and cultural phenomena. This shift not only broadens her understanding but also influences her professional identity, aligning her more closely with the avant-garde world that Susanne Bartsch epitomizes.
Amanda Lepore is an artist known for her bold and theatrical style, particularly within the realms of performance art and nightlife culture in New York City. Her work often involves dramatic makeup, extravagant costumes, and a distinctive aesthetic that embodies the essence of camp as she has come to understand it through her collaboration with Susanne Bartsch.