Art Monsters

Art Monsters by Lauren Elkin is an illuminating exploration of the intersection between art, feminism, and the human body. Through a series of compelling narratives, Elkin delves into the stories of pioneering female artists who have transformed the artistic landscape by fearlessly confronting and expressing their lived experiences. These artists challenge conventional narratives, offering unflinching portrayals of their bodies—queer, sick, racialised, and female—through various creative mediums.

Elkin's work is a landmark feminist intervention that deconstructs the traditional paradigms of art and identity. She examines how these artists have developed a unique visual and textual language to articulate their truths, questioning and redefining the materials and methods used in the artistic process. By weaving together the works and lives of diverse artists and writers, Elkin creates a rich tapestry that celebrates the beauty, complexity, and rawness of their expressions.

Art Monsters draws daring connections between an eclectic mix of figures, such as Julia Margaret Cameron's evocative photography, Kara Walker's provocative silhouettes, Vanessa Bell's intimate portraits, and Eva Hesse's innovative rope sculptures. Lauren Elkin demonstrates that these works not only reflect the personal and political struggles of their creators but also serve as powerful commentaries on societal norms and expectations.

This reassessment of women's stories, bodies, and art is both dazzlingly original and meticulously researched, offering new perspectives on how we perceive and engage with art. As Chris Kraus notes, the book is 'destined to become a new classic', while Deborah Levy praises Elkin as 'the Susan Sontag of her generation'.

Art Monsters is an essential read for anyone interested in feminist art, the politics of the body, and the transformative power of creative expression. It invites readers to celebrate the excess, sentiment, and touch that define these groundbreaking works, bridging the gap between the personal and the political in a way that is both poignant and thought-provoking.