THE UNCANNY – Mike Kelley

Published by Walther Konig – 1999 – Germany
20x27cm – 264 pages – Soft cover

The Uncanny is a compelling exhibition catalog by artist Mike Kelley, exploring the concept of the uncanny through a curated selection of artworks and essays. The book delves into themes of familiarity intertwined with eeriness, presenting a thought-provoking analysis of how certain objects and images can evoke unsettling feelings.

The catalog features a rich compilation of essays and visual materials that examine the uncanny in art and culture. It includes contributions from Mike Kelley himself, as well as scholars such as John C. Welchman and Christoph Grunenberg. The book is illustrated with approximately 150 color images, showcasing various artworks and objects that embody the uncanny aesthetic.​

Significance:

The Uncanny serves as both an insightful academic resource and a visually engaging collection, offering readers a deep dive into the psychological and artistic dimensions of the uncanny. It reflects Mike Kelley’s interdisciplinary approach, blending art theory with cultural critique, making it a valuable addition to the libraries of art enthusiasts, scholars, and students interested in contemporary art and psychoanalytic theory.​

For those seeking to explore the intersections of art, psychology, and the unsettling, The Uncanny provides a comprehensive and thought-provoking perspective.