Forms of Enchantment: Writings on Art & Artists

In this collection of essays, Marina Warner explores the visual experience of art, focusing on the inner lives of women and the stories and symbols they allude to. She argues that art and aesthetics increasingly fulfill a magical social function, and that the authors approach grows principally out of anthropology and mythology. With an introductory essay and illustrations throughout, Warner investigates how artists have reached beyond the visible to express interior states, creating a reading experience parallel to the intrinsic pleasure of looking at art.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 07 March 2024
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

Marina Warner, a renowned writer and critic, presents a captivating anthology of essays in this remarkable collection. According to Warner, art-writing should possess the same dynamism, fluidity, and passions as the objects it explores. In this new anthology, she delves into the visual experience of various artists, particularly focusing on the inner lives of women. Through an exploration of the range of stories and symbols alluded to in their work, Warner captures the essence of the artistic creations she discusses.

One notable aspect of Warner's writing is her use of metamorphosis in the imagery, stories, and media of the art she examines. This theme is evident in her discussions of artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Damien Hirst, and Joan Jonas. She explores how these artists incorporate animals, Catholicism, and performance as mediums of memory and resistance into their creations.

Rather than relying on connoisseurship, Warner's approach draws primarily from anthropology and mythology. She argues that art and aesthetics increasingly fulfill a magical social function, a principle that runs through these writings to give the collection a cohesive and polemical quality. The introduction provides valuable insights into Warner's approach, while the illustrations throughout enhance the reading experience.

In her essay, "How Artists Noted for Their Treatment of Disturbing, Uncanny Material Have Reached Beyond the Visible to Express Interior States," Warner investigates how artists known for their exploration of unsettling and uncanny material have transcended the boundaries of visibility to convey interior states. Through her writing, Warner seamlessly unites the imagination of artists, writers, and readers, creating a reading experience that parallels the inherent pleasure of engaging with art.

This anthology is a testament to Marina Warner's exceptional talent and her profound understanding of the artistic realm. It offers a captivating journey through the visual experiences of various artists, providing a deeper appreciation for the power of art to evoke emotions, challenge perceptions, and inspire introspection. Whether you are an art enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of words, this collection is a must-read for anyone seeking a truly inspiring and thought-provoking reading experience.

Weight: 618g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500295960