Unappetitlich ist das Baden im Schleim (Bathing in slime is disgusting) is an artist’s book created by Albert Oehlen with musician/writer Mayo Thompson. The book includes many of Oehlen’s stage and costume designs for Wagner’s opera Tannhauser, and reproductions of drawings made during his stay in Rio de Janeiro in 1986. Interwoven with these works is a written text by Mayo Thompson which is heavily annotated by Oehlen. Critical of the perceived dramatization and theatricality employed in opera and more recent forms such as rock music, Thompson suggests such overt effects are oftentimes used in ostentatious display, resulting in the question: “Is it over yet?”

Unappetitlich ist das Baden im Schleim is available in two versions: paperback featuring a fold-out (edition of 700); and a special edition, bound and boxed with simulated leather and wood insert, signed and numbered by both authors (edition of 50).

Featuring drawings, text, & photos by Oehlen and Thompson.

96 pages
8 x 6 inches
Trade edition of 700