The Women

A New Perspective on the Artist Anselm Kiefer – Women, Myth, and History – Texts by Various Contributors Anselm Kiefer has long been known for his monumental works that wrestle with history, mythology, and memory. However, in Anselm Kiefer’s The Women, a clear and richly illustrated study, the focus shifts to a dimension of his work that has often gone unnoticed—his engagement with the feminine. This book illuminates how women, both as figures within his paintings and as intellectual and mythological influences, have shaped Kiefer’s artistic vision in subtle and profound ways. At first glance, Kiefer may not seem like an artist deeply concerned with the feminine, but this book makes a persuasive case for its centrality in his practice. Lavishly illustrated with full-page colour prints, it immerses readers in Kiefer’s world, showcasing haunting works like Lilith, a dark and powerful embodiment of female potency; Margarethe, a sombre meditation on memory and loss; and his series of Brunhilde paintings, which explore heroism and sacrifice. The book also highlights his Women of Antiquity sculptures, which resurrect forgotten female figures, restoring their intellect, imagination, and adventurous spirit. This volume’s ability to convey Kiefer’s astonishing range across multiple mediums—painting, watercolour, woodcuts, sculpture, installations, and photography—sets it apart. Each medium is deployed to explore femininity’s deep ties to history and myth, and the book benefits from close access to Kiefer’s studio, offering an intimate look into his creative process. More than a retrospective, Anselm Kiefer’s The Women is a bold reinterpretation of the artist’s work, challenging familiar narratives and revealing the often-overlooked role of women in shaping his visual universe. For longtime admirers of Kiefer, it offers fresh insights; for newcomers, it provides an engaging and accessible introduction. With its stunning visuals and thoughtful analysis, this book lingers in the mind, reshaping how we see one of contemporary art’s most influential figures. /en anglais