In The Spotlight: Iconic Icelandic artist Björk has announced the release of a new 480-page book chronicling her ambitious five-year ‘Cornucopia’ tour. Titled “Cornucopia: The Book,” this visual journey captures the essence of Björk’s innovative live performances, blending cutting-edge technology with immersive theatrical experiences.
Book Details: Set for release on November 15, 2024, “Cornucopia: The Book” is a comprehensive visual documentation of Björk’s groundbreaking tour. The book features:
- 313 images across 480 pages, shot by photographer Santiago Felipe, according to Pitchfork
- Imagery from ‘Cornucopia’ director Tobias Gremmler
- Projections from various musical and visual artists
Design and Production: M/M Paris designed the book, as reported by mixmag, which will be printed as a softcover with flaps and sewn sections. The production details highlight the book’s artistic value:
- Printed in HUV-offset and fluorescent colors on hi-gloss paper
- Features gloss varnish and includes a 16-page booklet
Tour Context: The ‘Cornucopia’ tour, which ran from 2019 to December 2023, showcased Björk’s vision of bringing 21st-century virtual reality experiences to 19th-century theater settings. This innovative approach earned Björk the Best Live Performer accolade in 2023 from The Association of Independent Music (AIM).
Artistic Vision: Björk explains the concept behind ‘Cornucopia’: “My intention was to bring what we had created for 21st-century VR into a 19th-century theatre—taking it from the headset to the stage.” The tour featured:
- 27 moving curtains with projections on various textures and LED screens
- Bespoke instruments, including a magnetic harp, an aluphone, and a circular flute
- A specially built reverb chamber for intimate performances
Thematic Elements: The book not only documents the tour but also weaves in a subplot. Björk describes it as “a second story of an avatar—a modern marionette who alchemically mutates, from puppet to puppet, from the injury of a heart wound to a fully healed state.”This publication represents a significant milestone in music documentation, offering fans and art enthusiasts alike a deep dive into one of the most innovative tours in recent music history. “Cornucopia: The Book” is now available for pre-order through Björk’s official shop.
