The upcoming publication is part of Yto Barrada’s project for the French pavilion at the Venice Biennale. It aims to report on the extensive research carried out by Barrada, focusing on the intricate world of dyeing, fabrics, and textile techniques.
Scheduled for release in the summer of 2026, the book promises to be a significant contribution to contemporary art literature. It will include a glossary that highlights polysemous terms, emphasizing how meanings can shift based on context.
In a departure from traditional formats, the publication will feature ‘plates’ where images take center stage, with text positioned in the margins. This approach seeks to subvert Western bookish codes and challenge the academic primacy of text over visuals.
Myriam Ben Salah will provide an introduction for the book, setting the stage for the diverse perspectives included. Additionally, an essay by anthropologist Arnaud Dubois will enrich the content, offering insights into the cultural significance of the themes explored.
Moreover, the publication will feature an unpublished contribution by historian Marcel Bénabou, adding depth to the narrative. Collectively, these elements will weave numerous perspectives and vanishing lines, extending the experience of the Venice exhibition.
As the publication date approaches, observers are eager to see how Barrada’s innovative approach will resonate within the art community. The project is expected to provoke thought and discussion around the intersections of art, culture, and textile practices.
In this ‘subjective encyclopedia’, the reader forks and drifts at the whim of associations and cross-references, notably to the introductory glossary. This unique format aims to engage readers in a dynamic exploration of the subject matter.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding additional contributors or specific content highlights, but the anticipation surrounding the release continues to grow.
As the art world prepares for this significant publication, it is clear that Yto Barrada’s ‘Comme Saturne’ will challenge conventional narratives and invite readers to rethink their understanding of textiles and visual art.