Since the 1960s, American artist Lee Bontecou (born 1931) has been internationally praised for her intriguing sculptures and installations.

The rich, organic shapes of her sculptures seem to originate from a mysterious universe in which fears and desires are condensed.

Recently the artist created "Sandbox," a new installation in which she combines elements from her work from the 1960s to the present. A picture essay by Joan Banach, artist and friend of Bontecou, focuses on the genesis of "Sandbox" and maps the rich network of Bontecou's inspirations: pictures range from extracts from geological and historical books to images of works by old masters.

Beautiful, detailed photographs of the artist's studio--including her inspirational "wall of drawings"--are featured alongside reproductions from Bontecou's sketchbooks. This book is an intimate insight into the creative process of the artist.