Not My Circus, Not My Monkeys: The Motif of the Circus in Contemporary Art

The circus is a motif in contemporary art that examines current social circumstances and questions cultural and political structures. It originated in London in the 18th century and is a cosmos that provides the basis for an examination of art, cultural history, animal ethics, feminism, and racial criticism. Artists include Kathryn Andrews, Miriam Bäckström, Istvan Balogh, Beni Bischof, Mona Boschàr, Barbara Breitenfellner, Michael Dannenmann, Zilla Leutenegger, Dieter Meier, Yves Netzhammer, Tal R, Augustin Rebetez, Boris Rebetez, Ugo Rondinone, Niklaus Rüegg, Francisco Sierra, Norbert Tadeusz, William Wegman, and more.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2024
Publisher: Hirmer Verlag

The circus, a captivating motif in contemporary art, presents a deliberate staging of captivating illusions, intense struggles, triumphs, and defeats as an integral part of human existence. This remarkable volume brings together the creations of international contemporary artists who harness the power of the circus to explore pressing social realities and challenge the very foundations of cultural and political structures.

Originating in London towards the end of the 18th century, the circus has long held a fascination for many. However, in today's world, this place of sensory experiences seems like a relic from a bygone era. The circus, a complex and multifaceted universe, offers a rich platform for examining art, cultural history, animal ethics, feminism, and racial criticism. It also provides a means to expose the intricate structures of cultural dominance, marginalization, and political and historical filters that shape our understanding of the world.

The artists featured in this volume are a testament to the diverse range of perspectives and artistic approaches that the circus inspires. From Kathryn Andrews to Miriam Bäckström, Istvan Balogh to Beni Bischof, Mona Boschàr to Barbara Breitenfellner, Michael Dannenmann to Zilla Leutenegger, Dieter Meier to Yves Netzhammer, Tal R to Augustin Rebetez, Boris Rebetez to Ugo Rondinone, Niklaus Rüegg to Francisco Sierra, Norbert Tadeusz to William Wegman, each artist brings their unique vision to the table.

Through their works, these artists challenge our perceptions, provoke thought, and invite us to reflect on the complexities of human existence. The circus, with its entertaining and humorous aspects as well as its darker undertones, serves as a rich source of inspiration for these artists, who use its themes to explore the human condition and challenge the status quo.

In conclusion, the circus, as a motif in contemporary art, presents a unique opportunity to examine the complexities of human existence, challenge cultural and political structures, and explore the depths of our shared humanity. This remarkable volume showcases the talents of international contemporary artists who have embraced the power of the circus to create thought-provoking and visually stunning works that inspire us to think beyond the boundaries of our own experiences.

Weight: 722g
Dimension: 234 x 281 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783777441795