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Bruce Nauman’s ON/WITH, edited by Joan Simon, Daniel Szehin Ho, Ingrid Pui Yee Chu, and Grace Lai of Tai Kwun Contemporary, is a monumental publication that encapsulates the essence of one of the most influential visual artists of our time. Released in June 2024, this bilingual edition (English and Chinese) spans 248 pages and boasts 100 vibrant color images, making it a visually stunning and intellectually enriching addition to any art enthusiast’s library. Priced at €38.00, ON/WITH offers both accessibility and depth, inviting readers to delve into the expansive and multifaceted career of Bruce Nauman.
Bruce Nauman, born in 1941 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and currently residing in New Mexico, has long been revered as a pioneer of media art. Over six decades, Nauman has relentlessly pushed the boundaries of artistic expression, seamlessly blending various media to create works that challenge and engage. From wax casts and neon signs to immersive audio-visual environments and physical contortions, Nauman’s oeuvre defies categorization, embodying his commitment to exploring “the possibilities of what art can be.” This publication serves as a comprehensive survey of Nauman’s groundbreaking contributions, particularly spotlighting his largest exhibition in Asia to date at Tai Kwun Contemporary in Hong Kong.
ON/WITH meticulously documents Nauman’s expansive career, providing readers with a rich tapestry of his artistic journey. The editors have skillfully curated a selection of works that highlight Nauman’s versatility and innovative spirit. Each of the 100 color images is thoughtfully chosen to illustrate the evolution of his artistic practice, offering a visual narrative that complements the detailed textual analysis. The hardcover format, measuring 16.5 × 23.5 cm, ensures that the book is both durable and aesthetically pleasing, making it a perfect coffee table piece or a treasured addition to a personal collection.
A standout feature of ON/WITH is the array of contributions from prominent figures in the art world. Renowned artists and curators such as Cao Fei, Anne Imhof, Andrea Lissoni, Nicholas Serota, Meredith Monk, Philippe Parreno, Paul Pfeiffer, Robert Storr, Willoughby Sharp, Zhang Peili, and Samson Young provide insightful commentary, drawing historical connections and offering fresh perspectives on Nauman’s work. Their contributions enrich the reader’s understanding of Nauman’s impact and his enduring relevance amidst a rapidly changing media landscape.
The editors, Carlos Basualdo, Caroline Bourgeois, Pi Li, and the Tai Kwun Contemporary team, have done an exemplary job in weaving together interviews with Nauman and his contemporaries. These interviews offer intimate glimpses into Nauman’s creative process and his interactions with fellow artists, shedding light on the collaborative and often experimental nature of his work. The inclusion of historic interviews conducted by Joan Simon adds another layer of depth, allowing readers to trace the development of Nauman’s ideas over time.
ON/WITH not only showcases Nauman’s established works but also delves into his more experimental endeavors. The publication highlights his exploration of the studio as a site of continuous experimentation, where physical contortions and wordplay intersect with immersive environments. This process-based approach is a testament to Nauman’s dedication to melding bodily experience with diverse art forms, creating works that are as intellectually stimulating as they are visually captivating.
One of the most compelling aspects of ON/WITH is its ability to contextualize Nauman’s work within the broader socio-political landscape of the 1960s and beyond. Nauman came of age during a period of significant political and social upheaval, and this is reflected in his art’s thematic concerns and its relentless pursuit of new mediums. The publication effectively bridges the historical context with contemporary relevance, illustrating how Nauman’s work continues to resonate in today’s digital and media-saturated world.
The visual quality of ON/WITH is exceptional. The high-resolution color images faithfully reproduce the vibrancy and detail of Nauman’s works, allowing readers to appreciate the nuances of his various media explorations. Whether it’s the luminescent glow of his neon signs or the intricate textures of his wax casts, each image invites close examination and admiration. The thoughtful layout and design enhance the reading experience, making the book not only informative but also a pleasure to browse.
Moreover, the bilingual nature of the publication broadens its accessibility, reaching a diverse audience across linguistic boundaries. The inclusion of both English and Chinese editions underscores Tai Kwun Contemporary’s commitment to fostering cross-cultural dialogue and celebrating Nauman’s global influence. This dual-language approach ensures that Nauman’s work can be appreciated and studied by a wider readership, further cementing his status as a truly international artist.
In conclusion, Bruce Nauman’s ON/WITH is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to understand the breadth and depth of his artistic legacy. Through its comprehensive collection of images, insightful essays, and contributions from leading art figures, the book offers a holistic view of Nauman’s innovative spirit and his pivotal role in shaping contemporary art. The meticulous curation and high production quality make ON/WITH a standout publication, worthy of both scholarly attention and casual admiration. As Nauman continues to evolve and influence new generations of artists, ON/WITH stands as a testament to his enduring impact and his unwavering commitment to exploring the limitless possibilities of art.
Artdaily participates in the Amazon Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn commissions by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help us continue curating and sharing the art world’s latest news, stories, and resources with our readers.
