The book is arranged in wonderful groupings of photographs, collages and montages, all enlivened with short, articulate prose that interweaves a personal life story with the art. It is a quick, engaging read, and at the end, we feel as if we have known this artist as a friend for a long time.
Leonard's experiences as feminist artist, academic, single mom, identical twin, and daughter of an Alzheimer's patient all play a part in her art.
Reflecting on her decision in the 1960s to choose a career as an artist, Leonard writes:
" ...but even as a young woman, I had to take myself seriously as an artist in order to allow myself the time, money, and space for my art. In fact, looking back, I think it was that very "allowing" more than anything else that defined me as an artist; I built a darkroom and, later, a studio when I could have fixed up a kitchen."
A well-made short documentary video serves as an introduction and companion piece to the book.
Highly recommended!
— Jim Casper
Being in Pictures
by Joanne Leonard
Hardcover: 264 pages
Publisher: University of Michigan Press (April 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0472114026
ISBN-13: 978-0472114023
11.2 x 11.1 x 1.1 inches
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