Lifework

On the autobiographical impulse in contemporary art, writing, and theory

By: Moran Sheleg (Editor)

Write A Review

Paperback | 20 January 2026

At a Glance

Paperback
336 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
24.0 x 17.0 x 2.3

Paperback

$75.89

or 4 interest-free payments of $18.97 with

or

Ships in 5 to 7 business days

Following the critical scepticism surrounding the notion of the 'self' as a singular entity during the 1960s, many artists and writers sought to test the apparent problem posed by autobiography as both a traditional genre and as a way of working. Considering the consequent emergence of autotheory, Lifework traces this shift in artistic and literary production during the late twentieth century and beyond, examining a set of diverse practices that mine the line between what it is to make art and what it is to live life. The book's chapters connect a variety of artistic strategies that cut across medium, geography and time, uncovering how the historical marginalisation of first-person experience has taken on larger social, cultural and political implications in the contemporary moment and how the work of living might still relate to the work of art.

Industry Reviews

'Lifework offers an inspiring intellectual history of the trends flagged by its title... [and] transforms the concept of selfhood into something meaningful once again.'
Burlington Magazine

Shipping

	Standard Shipping	Express Shipping
Metro postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Regional postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Rural postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95

Orders over $89.00 qualify for free shipping.

How to return your order

At Booktopia, we offer hassle-free returns in accordance with our returns policy. If you wish to return an item, please get in touch with Booktopia Customer Care.

Additional postage charges may be applicable.