Tao Lin: Art, Angst and Psilocybin

Literary zeitgeist, Tao Lin, is a poet, novelist and artist. Reliantly provocative, he’s polarised critics in ways that few contemporary voices manage: his work has variously been described as genius, daring, hilarious and sociopathic. Gawker notoriously denounced him as “the most annoying person” they’ve ever had dealings with, (before ‘pardoning’ him and becoming fans), while hard nosed critics have spent countless column inches debating whether Shoplifting from American Aparel or Eeeee Eee Eeee are serious, literary breakthroughs or elaborate jokes. Underlying this baffled response, is a recognition that Tao is ambitiously trying to capture the spirit of the times, presenting it in an all its disaffected glory.

Here, Tao tours us through his lesser known art work. Expect him to shed light on iconic pieces, such as 'Gas Powered Sun Fish', 'Buddhist Tyrannosaurus Rex' and the ambiguous 'Embarrassed Ice Beast'. Must-see viewing for those with an interest in art and/or drugs.