Self/Image: Technology, Representation, and the Contemporary Subject

by Amelia Jones

Including over 100 illustrations from mainstream film to independent film, video art, performance and the visual arts, this important and original book explores how technology has affected artists' abilities and forms to express themselves. From analogue photography to more recent artistic practices including digital imaging, performance robotics and video installations, Self/Image is one of the first full length studies to investigate the complex relations among these diverse artistic practices. This will make an excellent companion to studies of contemporary art history, and media and cultural studies in the post-1960 period.

Genres: Art, Research, Art History, Nonfiction

Paperback

First published November 22, 2006

About the author

Amelia Jones is an American art historian, art critic and curator specializing in feminist art, body/ performance art, video art and Dadaism. Her written works and approach to modern and contemporary art history are considered revolutionary in that she breaks down commonly assumed opinions and offers brilliantly conceived critiques of the art historical tradition and individual artist's positions in that often elitist sphere.

Amelia Jones studied art history at Harvard and the University of Pennsylvania. She received her Phd from UCLA in 1991.

Jones has taught art history at UC Riverside and is currently the Pilkington Chair of the art history department at Manchester University.

Jones received a Guggenheim Fellowship in 2000.

Amelia Jones is the daughter of Princeton Psychology professor Edward E. Jones.

Reviews

[Aria-Joshes · Rating 5 out of 5]

And just like that! I’m a fan of Amelia Jones. I would read this book again and again. It’s inspired my practise and helped me think deeper into the concept of the self in art, the limitations and the endless possibilities. I also learnt a new word. Parafeminism.

[Thea · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very wordy and full of very specific concepts and jargon that I couldn’t follow along with easily. I can imagine if you are more informed on the subject the concepts would be very insightful.

[Robert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really interesting discussion of Stelarc—and the disjuncture between his professed aims and what he is actually doing. I like the attempt to situate imaging technologies in relation to performance of identity and performance art. She takes a broad view of "imaging technologies" which I find interesting as well.
I'm a fan of Amelia Jones' writing, generally, "Body Art/Peforming the Subject" is my favorite.

[Braden Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best read of the year, and possibly even best book of Jones' career. The architecture/urban space chapter is an essential read for anyone with an interest in Los Angeles