Interviews, conversations and chit-chat (1986-2004)

This volume brings together a dozen zestful interviews and conversations between the LA-based artist Mike Kelley and some of the leading voices in contemporary culture over the last couple of decades. They range from extended discussions with his artist-friends Jim Shaw and Tony Oursler, which are essential for any understanding of their formative work, to probing dialogues with performer Michael Smith, AA Bronson of General Idea and German painter/writer Jutta Koether. Kelley also talks with the photographer/filmmaker Larry Clark and artist Richard Prince, with Kim Gordon and Thurston Moore of Sonic Youth, and with noted filmmakers John Waters and Harmony Korine. The book begins and ends with two conversations with critics: volume editor, John C. Welchman talks to Kelley about the nature of talking, and Jeffrey Sconce about Kelley's innovative exhibitions The Uncanny (1993 and 2004).