Endocrinology

Artist: Kiki Smith
Title of Work: Endocrinology
Year: 1997
Page Dimensions: 21 1/4″ x 21″
Material: Book of 20 photolithographs with collaged text on Nepalese, Mohawk Superfine Text, Tiara Starwhite, Sekishu Torinoko Gampi
Photo Line: © Kiki Smith/Universal Limited Art Editions. 1997
Collection Credit: Courtesy Universal Limited Art Editions

A collaboration between Kiki Smith and the poet Mei-mei Berssenbruge, Endocrinology explores issues of fertility, disease and mortality.  Smith chose to employ a simple and very direct method of printmaking when creating this book. The monochrome prints resemble human organs.  Smith’s interest in internal organs began after attending to be an emergency medical technician in 1985. When discussing this work Smith stresses the importance of collaboration and process.  “Lots of times, work is just a byproduct of an activity. It exists in the process and not in the outcome.”

[Audio program excerpt from Kiki Smith: Prints, Books and Things, December 5, 2003 – March 8, 2004]

–Sophia Yablon ’12, Gund Gallery Associate