Isolde is an artist’s book composed of paintings, drawings, book excerpts, film stills and photographs.

Named after the heroine of Richard Wagner’s opera Tristan and Isolde, the book traces Peyton’s long-term interest in Wagner, the Romantic legends behind his operas, and his seminal idea of a ‘total work of art’.

This publication takes the form of an anthology, in which the artist’s recent works are set in the context their myriad source materials and inspirations.

The compilation reflects the multiple ways which the subject has touched upon Peyton’s work, both in historical allusions and more glancing points of connection.

Attesting the importance of reading as a process in Peyton’s work, the book contains various extracts from books on the subject of Arthurian legend.

Elizabeth Peyton is an artist working primarily in painting, drawing and printmaking. She is best known for her portraits from close friends to historical personae to icons of contemporary culture.

Working variously from life and from photographs, Peyton combines insights into historical and artistic portraiture – from Goya to Warhol.

Published after the exhibition at Sadie Coles HQ, London, 14 January – 20 February 2016.