Cosmeceutical Collection 

Alicia Bailey

Ravenpress, publisher

2006 CE, Denver, Colorado, USA

Mixed media

N7433.4.B328 C67 2006 artists book

Cosmecuetical Collection is one of numerous limited-edition artist’s books created by studio artist Alicia Bailey. Contained in its top folding pink box are three miniature books that mimic different forms of makeup: an eyeshadow palette (Belladonna), a powder compact (Compact Beauty), and a tube of mascara (Lash Lure). Inside these charming miniatures, however, are disturbing accounts of how women have suffered from arbitrary and unattainable beauty standards. Venetian women used to dilate their pupils with the distillate of belladonna, a poisonous herb; multiple American women were blinded after they used Lash Lure, a once-popular eyelash dye. Bailey sardonically urges the reader of the compact to make herself more attractive, stating that “any American Girl worth her salt can look like a living doll.” 

Rachel Vorsanger