Transmorphing Utopia

Transmorphing Utopia is the first major publication on the astutely absurd work of artist Paul W. Waddell. This richly illustrated book includes essays by independent curator Santiago Vernetti and celebrated author Jonathan Griffin, as well as an exclusive interview between Waddell and the artist Chelsea Coon. The texts offer generous insights into the full scope and depth of Waddell’s career across his varied mediums and disciplines. The full color reproductions bring together images from two seminal series of painting: LOOSE HEADS (paintings that look for you) and TRANSMORPHING. Vernetti’s essay, which is chock-full of his characteristically refreshing wit, deftly situates these paintings within their appropriate art historical lineage while offering amusingly perceptive interpretations. Griffin’s personal reflection untangles the various strands of Waddell’s oeuvre, and considers what artistic personas the artist adopts when addressing his audience. The interview between Coon and Waddell, two of the most engaging and exciting figures in the contemporary art scene, lays bare the impulses and influences that drive and inform their performance practices. Despite its content and contributors, this publication just barely scratches the surface of one of Southern California’s most intriguing artists, and will leave readers delightfully unquenched.