Celluloid by Dave McKean

 

Image source: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10864762-celluloid?from_search=true

Well we've had posts about nonfiction, fantasy, science fiction, drama, romance, classic literature and horror. We've seen books, manga, comics and even a video game.

So it shouldn't be too surprising that I've got an erotica selection too. And no. It's not 50 Shades of Grey. It's just about as far from 50 Shades as you can get, actually.

Celluloid is a loosely narrative collection of erotic artwork by Dave McKean. Known best for his collaborative work with Neil Gaiman and comic books such as Arkham Asylum, McKean's artwork is unique and bizarre - an emotionally raw blend of photography, mixed media and digital art.

Celluloid is sexual fantasy at its height; it is a glimpse into the realms of attraction and pleasure. Moving from each scene, each erotic vision, to the next, McKean's style and colours change. Every style accentuates some new sexual fetish, some new primal desire. The result is a dreamlike journey through the archetypes of human sexuality.

Both tasteful yet pleasantly shocking, McKean's work strikes a delightful balance between male and female pleasure and control. More than simple pornography, it dares to be thought provoking. It speaks to the strangeness of human desire and raises questions about exploration and vulnerability.

If you have an interest in erotica or even just boundary pushing modern art, I definitely recommend giving Celluloid a chance. You might be pleasantly surprised.

5 days until Christmas!