The notion of motherhood and how to define it are hugely complex. Scarcely another concept has provoked a more diverse range of associations, emotions and stereotypes nor shifted so frequently throughout the history of humankind. Today, the topic is more political than ever.


This book provides an overview of how contemporary art reflects perceptions of motherhood and mothering. Fourteen examples illuminate various aspects from a biological, psychological and social perspective. Another topic that is included in these considerations is that of non-motherhood. In addition, the ambivalent attitude of the arts and cultural sector towards artists who decide to become mothers is examined, as is the artistic exploration of motherhood in terms that go beyond heteronormative, cis-gendered relationships.


Text in English and German.