A new book from Phaidon documents the projects and philosophy of MSCHF, the Brooklyn art collective known for creating viral moments in contemporary culture. The 384-page hardcover volume "Made by MSCHF" examines the group's work through archival materials and detailed case studies.
The book provides readers access to previously unpublished images and documents from MSCHF's archive, tracking the collective's evolution since its founding by Lukas Bentel and Kevin Wiesner. Both founders contribute extensively to the text, sharing insights into their creative process and organizational approach.
The publisher organized the content around twelve defining MSCHF projects, including their 2020 "Severed Spots" work, the 2022 "Tax Heaven 3000" initiative, and their 2023 "Big Red Boots" release. These case studies are divided between two main sections: "Absurd Systems" and "Absurd Objects".
Several notable figures from the art and design world contributed essays to the book, including curator Karen Wong, art critic Blake Gopnik, and artist Maurizio Cattelan. Their writing provides context for MSCHF's position within contemporary culture and creative practice.
Beyond the featured case studies, the book documents over 200 projects released by MSCHF in the past five years. Through this comprehensive catalog, readers can trace how the collective has approached its goal of creating cultural impact through art and design.
"Made by MSCHF" will be released on March 6, with pre-orders available through Phaidon's website at $79.95. The book aims to document both the philosophical framework and practical methods behind MSCHF's creative output since its inception.
Kristin Kaye
Insatiably curious about human expression, she immerses herself in literature, theater, art, and dance. Her academic journey led to degrees in Modern Literature, where she delved into The Furioso, and Historical Sciences with a focus on Contemporary History. Her studies took her to the prestigious Erasmus University Rotterdam, broadening her international perspective.
Her passion for culture isn't confined to personal enjoyment—it spills onto the pages of various publications. There, she explores not only artistic endeavors but also civil rights issues and the myriad ways human culture manifests itself. For her, writing about these topics isn't just a profession; it's an irresistible calling that stems from her deep-seated fascination with the human experience.