Shelley Jackson

Jackson synthesizes literature and digital media to explore the complex themes of identity and embodiment. Her work often leverages the metaphor of the body, utilizing hypertext and digital platforms to deconstruct and rebuild narratives. In her pioneering hyperfiction, "Patchwork Girl", Jackson reimagines Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" through a non-linear narrative structure that emphasizes bodily metaphors, marking it as a seminal piece of electronic literature. Meanwhile, her project "Skin", a story tattooed word by word on volunteers, exemplifies her approach to narrative as a physically distributed form, blurring the lines between art and storytelling.\n\nHer thematic interests span the exploration of the body, identity, and narrative fragmentation, often using innovative formats to challenge conventional storytelling. For instance, "Half Life" explores identity through the speculative lens of conjoined twins in a world affected by atomic bomb fallout. Jackson's method of integrating visual art with storytelling allows readers to engage with narrative in unique, embodied ways. This approach benefits those interested in cross-genre literature, digital art, and experimental narrative forms, offering fresh perspectives on how stories can be told and experienced.\n\nJackson's contributions have earned her significant recognition, including a Pushcart Prize and a Howard Foundation grant, underscoring her impact on contemporary literature. Her diverse roles, from author to artist, and her teaching positions at institutions like The New School, reflect her commitment to exploring and expanding the boundaries of narrative art. By consistently challenging traditional literary forms, Jackson invites readers to reconsider the possibilities of storytelling in the digital age.