The Wink The Kiss The Slap (1987-88)
3" x 4" x 3", Limited Edition of 15
Plexiglas, Rabbit Fur, Letterpress

At first glance, The Wink, The Kiss, The Slap appears to be light and entertaining, a beguiling trio of tactile, fur flip books.  But in reality, their content is a timely reminder of the growing number of troubled relationships that have become public spectacles via the media.  Starting with the first book, Grant introduces the reader to familiar issues that reference flirtation, pursuit, seduction, trust, response, and deception.   

Each book is tucked into its own drawer of a Plexiglas jewel box adorned with man-made diamonds mounted in the pulls.  Fur and diamonds are age-old status symbols of wealth that people are encouraged to search for in relationships, the "treasures" the consumer industry has taught them to expect. By placing each book inside a transparent drawer, the viewer is visually seduced by the materials and colors yet barred from touching the enticement.  The placement echoes behaviors that shape many human relationships.

Repetitive text is printed in letterpress on white card stock.  The contact-size photographs are original laser prints.  Grant selected the colors of the three books--white, red and black for the meanings generally associated with the hues. 

While flipping the pages of The Wink and The Kiss, the alternation between male and female stares, winks, and kisses is barely noticeable and seems innocent. In The Slap, however, gender is indecipherable and the physical gesture is questionable. 

Acquisitions: Contact Conduit Gallery
Exhibitions: Contact Susan kae Grant