Becoming an Artwork

Modern history is a history of aesthetizations, and humans present themselves as objects of contemplation that deserve admiration and care. Artists and intellectuals have struggled for the sovereign right to present themselves to society in their own way, and today everybody has an obligation to practice self-design. However, we are not able to produce our own bodies, and the practice of self-design takes a critical and confrontational turn to bring others to see us in the way we want to be seen. This is a complicated struggle, and the aim of this book is to describe and analyze it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 140 pages
Publication date: 14 October 2022
Publisher: Polity Press

Modern history is a tapestry woven with the threads of aestheticization, where each manifestation of beauty demands the protection of its essence. From the vast expanse of Earth to the depths of the oceans, the atmosphere that envelopes us, the rare and endangered species that grace our planet, and the exotic flora that thrives in distant lands, we seek to aestheticize and safeguard every facet of our existence. Humanity, too, is not immune to this yearning, presenting itself as a subject of contemplation that merits admiration and care. For centuries, artists and intellectuals have battled for the sovereign right to present themselves to society in their unique way, striving to become self-created works of art. Today, the privilege of self-design is not just a right but an obligation that rests upon us all. We are accountable for the way we present ourselves to others, a responsibility that cannot be escaped.

Yet, as we embark on this journey of self-design, we are confronted with a paradox. We are not the architects of our own bodies. Before we can even begin to shape ourselves, we are already shaped by the gaze of others. This realization leads us to adopt a critical and confrontational stance in our practice of self-design. Our ultimate goal is to be seen by others in the manner we desire, not just during our earthly existence but also after we pass into the realm of the afterlife. This pursuit is a complex and intricate one, filled with challenges and complexities.

The purpose of this book is to delve into the depths of this struggle, to describe and analyze its intricacies. We aim to shed light on the ways in which we are shaped by the gaze of others, the challenges we face in seeking to be seen as we wish, and the strategies we employ to navigate this complex terrain. Through a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from philosophy, psychology, art, and cultural studies, we will explore the ways in which aesthetics plays a pivotal role in shaping our identities, relationships, and sense of self.

In conclusion, modern history is a testament to the power of aestheticization, a force that has shaped our world in profound ways. As we continue to navigate the complexities of self-design, we must recognize the importance of protecting the beauty and essence of everything around us. By embracing the critical and confrontational aspects of this practice, we can strive to be seen by others in the manner we desire, forging a path toward a more harmonious and inclusive society.

Weight: 152g
Dimension: 124 x 190 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781509551972