Eduardo Paolozzi’s Gay Atomic Coloring Book is a satirical, subversive artist’s book from 1970, blending pop art and social critique. The 8-page booklet is rare and not widely circulated, but it’s recognized as a significant work in the history of artists’ books and queer art. It stands as a testament to Eduardo Paolozzi’s fascination with mass media, and his willingness to challenge social norms through art. His work often explored the intersection of technology, consumer culture, and sexuality, and this book is no exception.
The book’s illustrations are not meant for children. They lampoon the sanitized, utopian visions of postwar science and industry, infusing them with a camp sensibility and references to sexuality and gender. Paolozzi’s approach was to take the familiar format of a coloring book—a symbol of innocence and conformity—and subvert it, turning it into a vehicle for playful critique. The result is a collection of images that are provocative, inviting viewers to reconsider the boundaries between art, propaganda, and personal expression.
We made a copy of the booklet in full size (9.5 inches square, 24 x 24 cm), as it was published in the multimedia art magazine Aspen no. 7 “British Box” as item 4 (more about the magazine here). With the pencils shown we colored one page (of the copy).
