This publication traces the formative years of artist Isa Genzken's career, from her student days to 1983. The book meticulously documents the evolution of her artistic practice, showcasing a diverse range of media including sculptures, computer printouts, drawings, photographs, and films. Genzken's work from this period is characterized by a fusion of conceptual rigor and deeply personal themes, where geometric abstractions often reveal intimate narratives of relationships and desires. The publication also contextualizes her output within the dominant artistic movements of Minimalism and Conceptual Art prevalent in America and Western Europe during that era.

This comprehensive survey of Isa Genzken's early work is regarded as a significant contribution to understanding her artistic development. The inclusion of essays by prominent art historians like Griselda Pollock offers critical perspectives on her engagement with Minimalism and Conceptual Art, as well as the personal dimensions embedded within her seemingly abstract forms. The publication is noted for its detailed presentation of a wide array of media, providing a thorough overview of her output from 1973 to 1983. It serves as an essential resource for scholars and enthusiasts interested in the foundational period of a major contemporary artist.