Jonathan Dee's 'La fabrique des illusions' Explores Advertising and Art
Jonathan Dee's novel 'La fabrique des illusions,' published by Plon, intertwines the narratives of John, a shy young advertising professional and art enthusiast, and Molly, a provincial woman. The story unfolds through alternating perspectives that initially seem disconnected but gradually reveal a critique of the ambiguous relationship between advertising and contemporary art in late 20th century. The novel is set in a fictional advertising agency named Palladio, which treats clients as patrons and believes in artful advertising. A dead shark in a tank, reminiscent of Damien Hirst's work, appears as a motif. This is Dee's second novel translated into French, following 'The Privileges' (2011). The book demands patience from readers as it slowly builds its ideological context through lengthy, engaging dialogue.
Key facts
- Jonathan Dee's novel 'La fabrique des illusions' is published by Plon.
- The novel features characters John (a shy advertiser and art lover) and Molly (a provincial woman).
- The narrative alternates between John and Molly's perspectives.
- The story explores the ambiguous relationship between advertising and contemporary art in the late 20th century.
- The fictional advertising agency is named Palladio.
- A dead shark in a tank references Damien Hirst's work.
- This is Dee's second novel translated into French, after 'The Privileges' (2011).
- The novel requires patience from readers as it builds its context through dialogue.
Entities
Artists
- Jonathan Dee
- Damien Hirst
Institutions
- Plon
Sources
- artpress —