Consuming Instinct
Gurt Swanenberg, Jap Sam Books
DISCIPLINES
Editorial, Print
blending past and present to reshape our view of consumerism
DISCIPLINES
Editorial, Print
About the book
‘Consuming instinct’ is a daring overview of the work of artist Gurt Swanenberg. The book is a critical translation of the frenzied consuming nature of man. In his art, Gurt Swanenberg brings together nature objects and decadence, creating a reflection of our modern sin. He paints lifelike flesh with just one brush hair. The dividing line between real and fake is becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish due to the references to today’s consuming world.
In 2016, ‘s-Hertogenbosch commemorates the 500th anniversary of Hieronymus Bosch’s death. As part of ‘Bosch 500’ and under the title ‘The Seven Deadly Sins’, the work of Gurt Swanenberg, together with engravings by Pieter Breugel, and a new work by Jan Fabre, can be seen in the North Brabant Museum
About the Design
Studio Renate Boere has chosen to visually support Gurt’s work with references from the past, such as the ‘wunderkammers’, as well as references from the present, such as the supermarket and the many typical advertising tricks to seduce consumers. This story is enhanced by the bold typography and luxurious appearance of the book.
The book was worked on for 3 years. In that time, his work, but also this book, has evolved into a visual spectacle that makes you look differently at the consuming world around you.
“The dividing line between real and fake is becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish due to the references to today's consuming world.”
“It has evolved into a visual spectacle that makes you look differently at the consuming world around you.”
Colophon
Authors: Ad de Visser, Jan van Laarhoven, Hans November
Translators: Cor Swanenberg, Martin de Barbanson, Jos Swanenberg, Tonya Veal
Design: Studio Renate Boere: Renate Boere, Lisa van Speybroeck, Leon Baauw, Niels Vrijdag, Caroline Langendoen, Ravenna Buijs
Release year: 2016
Publisher: Jap Sam Books