Critical Writing Index

The Pains and Pleasures of Rebirth: Women's Body Art

by Lucy Lippard

Art in America, May 1976, v. 64, no. 3, pp. 73-81

"The Pains and Pleasures of Rebirth: Women's Body Art" explores the use of the woman's body as an artist's medium in the 1970s. Comparisons are drawn between women's and men's body art with respect to its reception, validity, and interpretation. Female "body art" artists investigate themes of sex, androgyny, feminism, and masochism, yet many do not explore pregnancy or childbirth. Large images of works are included.

ITEM 1976.048 – available for viewing in the Research Centre

Videos, Artworks and Artists Cited

Up To and Including Her LimitsCarolee Schneemann

Isolation is TransparentUlrike Nolden Rosenbach

Perfection and DeformationMartha Wilson

The Process of AgingAthena Tacha

You, YouKetty La Rocca

Breast Forms PermutatedMartha Wilson

Body HalvesRita Myers

CarvingEleanor Antin

Mine Not ITania Mouraud

People Call Me Tania MouraudTania Mouraud

Which of These Bodies Are They Referring To?Tania Mouraud

Jesus Christ Supert-artHannah Wilke

Sentimental ActionGina Pane

S.O.S. (Starification Object Series)Hannah Wilke

Sentimental JourneyValentina Berardinone

Menstruation BathroomJudy Chicago

Red FlagJudy Chicago

Mutilation Images: A GardenBetsy Damon

Self Images: Terrible Mother of the Blood RiverCarole Fisher