Jean-Jacques Lebel and French Happenings of the 1960s: The Erotics of Revolution

Laurel Jean Fredrickson's book explores Jean-Jacques Lebels' involvement with Surrealists and his break with the movement, highlighting two significant events: "Funeral of the Thing of Tinguely" and "120 Minutes dedicated to the Divine Marquis." It sheds light on postwar French society, revealing sensitive aspects such as torture, censorship, and sexual politics. Lebel's participation in the May 1968 revolution shaped the erotics and forms of revolution.

Format: Hardback
Length: 242 pages
Publication date: 25 March 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

In her captivating book, Laurel Jean Fredrickson delves into the intricate life and career of Jean-Jacques Lebels, exploring his journey as a young artist amidst the vibrant Surrealist movement and his eventual rupture with it. Through a detailed examination of two pivotal events, namely the "Funeral of the Thing of Tinguely" (1960) and the highly scandalous "120 Minutes dedicated to the Divine Marquis" (1966), Fredrickson sheds light on the evolution and significance of French happenings in the context of the cultural and political transformations of the 1960s.

To unravel the rich tapestry of Lebels' life and work, Fredrickson conducts extensive research in his archives and those of institutions like the Archives nationale doutre-mer. This research not only provides valuable insights into Lebels' personal experiences but also unveils the delicate and often concealed aspects of postwar French society. From the harrowing accounts of torture during the Algerian War to the pervasive government censorship and the complex sexual politics surrounding nudity in art, Fredrickson's book offers a profound exploration of the social and political climate of that era.

What sets this volume apart is its ability to demonstrate how Lebels seamlessly integrated the lessons learned from Dadaism and surrealism, as well as the experimentalism of the 1960s, with his political radicalism. This fusion of influences resulted in his active participation in shaping the erotic and revolutionary impulses that erupted in May 1968. Lebels' work, characterized by its boldness, provocation, and commitment to social change, resonated with a generation seeking to challenge the status quo and usher in a new era of liberation and expression.

Through her meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Laurel Jean Fredrickson has created a seminal work that not only sheds light on the life and career of Jean-Jacques Lebels but also contributes to our understanding of the broader cultural and political landscape of the 1960s. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in art, history, and the transformative power of artistic expression.

Weight: 642g
Dimension: 158 x 239 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501332319