Integrating the psychology of love and creativity, this pioneering book explores both how a couple's involvement as lovers influences their creative collaboration and how working together affects their relationship. Representing a variety of genres-painting, sculpture, photography, and installation art-the celebrated couples profiled here include, among others, Christo and Jeanne-Claude, Elizabeth Diller and Ricardo Scofidio, and Kristin Jones and Andrew Ginzel.
Intrigued by this process of "intimate creativity," psychologists Irving and Suzanne Sarnoff (themselves partners in love and work) decided to conduct in-depth interviews with partners in visual art because they defy the supremely individualistic tradition of their field. Whatever their age or sexual orientation, these artist-couples combine their talents to form a collective identity as a professional team. Passionately intense about their shared commitment, they communicate endlessly to resolve conflicts and reach consensus. Providing mutual validation and support, they increase their productivity and the quality of their work; they minimize their fear and frustration and enhance their pleasure in being together.
The authors also draw on historical and contemporary literature about similar couples, ranging from Jean Arp and Sophie Taeuber to Gilbert and George to Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. Stimulating and engaging, this book highlights the features of a unique collaborative process, considers the connection between creativity and sexuality, and suggests possibilities for any couple to expand their intimacy.
From the Back Cover
"An aesthetically intoxicating blend of in-depth interviews with creative duos, sensitive introspection of the authors' own life-long creative collaboration, and wise psychological analyses mixed with a heady dash of scholarship. Must reading for all those who love art, the mystery of artistic creation, and the dynamics of human interaction." - Philip Zimbardo, Stanford University
"An inspiring read for anyone involved in or contemplating collaborative work with an intimate partner. The Sarnoffs touch in new ways on the real benefits compromise and collaboration can bring to the creative process--and the equally real joys personal commitment can bring to the joint career." - Robert and Michele Root-Bernstein, co-authors of Sparks of Genius
See all Editorial Reviews
