How to Disappear Completely

How to Disappear Completely by Rachel Howard, published by Haunch of Venison in 2008, presents a collection of 95 pages that delve into the intersection of art and the human experience of tragedy. This edition showcases Howard’s first exhibition with the publisher, featuring a series of figurative and abstract paintings alongside ink-on-paper studies. The works explore the concept of beauty emerging from everyday tragedy, reflecting on themes of death through both personal and mediated lenses.

Readers will find that Howard’s artistic inquiry is rooted in a unique process she describes as “prodding the inevitable,” where she draws inspiration from disturbing images of suicide sourced from newspapers and the internet. The resulting paintings depict the human form in various postures, often suspended in a way that suggests a gravitational pull influencing their appearance. This exploration of art and history invites contemplation on the complexities of mortality and representation, making it a thought-provoking addition to discussions surrounding contemporary art.