Comic books in 'The Artist Collections'

1st printing. Collects The Artist HC (2017 Fantagraphics) and The Artist The Circle of Life HC (2020 Fantagraphics). Story and art by Anna Haifisch. Breakdown Press are excited to bring Anna Haifisch's The Artist back to print in a new omnibus edition, collecting both the original 2016 graphic novel and its 2019 follow-up, The Circle of Life, along with additional strips including the brand new Bird Opera. Now readers can experience the whole story in one hilarious and heart-wrenching volume, exposing the absurdity of the fine art world as experienced by a young artist. Anna Haifisch's idiosyncratic, episodic comic chronicles the formative years of a young artist, satirising the exclusive, ephemeral and absurd world of fine art with all of its arcane protocols and quirks. Plagued by doubts and anxiety, the artist confronts constant setbacks and tantalizingly occasional glimpses of success. Based on Haifisch's own experiences as an illustrator in both Germany and the USA, The Artist is a sharp and self-deprecating comedy that will resonate with anyone who has ever tried to make art. In The Artist, Haifisch has exposed the very nerves of what it means to be an artist in a world of ever shifting rules and complications, to hilarious and insightful ends. Softcover, 6 1/2-in. x 8 1/2-in., 178 pages, full color. Mature Readers Cover price $34.99.

1st printing.

Story and art by Anna Haifisch.

Anna Haifisch's idiosyncratic graphic novel chronicles the experiences of a young artist, satirising the exclusive and frequently absurd world of fine art. Plagued by doubts and anxiety, the artist is confronted with constant setbacks punctuated by occasional, surprising glimpses of recognition. Based on Haifisch's own experiences as an illustrator, The Artist's sharp and self-deprecating observations resonate with the current generation, especially those who make art.

Hardcover, 6-in. x 9-in., 64 pages, full color.

Cover price $19.99.

1st printing.

Story and art by Anna Haifisch.

The Artist first appeared as a weekly strip on Vice and this second collection (the first was published in 2016) continues our hero's attempts to break out as a fine artist while being plagued by setbacks punctuated by glimpses of recognition. It's cynically satirical, but far more loving and affectionate than one might expect. The Artist is a modern hero for anyone who feels broken by the art world but continues on nonetheless.

Hardcover, 104 pages, full color. Mature Readers

Cover price $26.99.