Introduction to Yoko Ono

David Sheff’s biography, “YOKO,” delves deeply into the life of Yoko Ono—an influential artist and the widow of iconic musician John Lennon. Often portrayed in a specific light, Ono’s story encompasses humor, resilience, and artistic innovation that has shaped her legacy over the years.

Understanding Yoko Ono’s Humor

Throughout her life, Ono has demonstrated a unique sense of humor. When asked if she would forgive Mark David Chapman, the man who assassinated Lennon, she simply noted, “I’m not the pope.” Such quips highlight her approach to life and the complexities surrounding her experiences.

Artistry and Activism

Ono’s artistic endeavors often intersected with her activism. In 1971, she organized an exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art that notably emphasized the need for greater inclusivity for women and Asian artists. She cleverly manipulated the museum’s signage to read “Museum of Modern (F) Art,” showcasing her wit and advocacy for underrepresented communities.

Her artwork has invited public participation long before the term “crowdsourcing” gained popularity. One of her notable pieces, “Self-Portrait,” exemplified this by reflecting viewers back at themselves through a simple mirror.

A Life Marked by Challenges and Triumphs

With her birth in 1933 in Tokyo to affluent yet emotionally distant parents, Ono faced numerous hardships. Witnessing the bombings during World War II and enduring a difficult childhood, she later acknowledged her struggles with mental health and family dynamics.

Having gone through two previous marriages prior to her union with Lennon, Ono’s relationships shaped her perspectives. Her artistic experiments, such as offering shares of herself for artistic expression, were precursors to contemporary conceptual art movements.

Collaborations and Connections

Sheff’s biography benefits from input from various individuals close to Ono, including her children, ex-husband, and friends from the arts community. This collaboration offers a well-rounded portrayal of Ono that balances sympathy with realism, illustrating how she has been demonized over the years despite her significant contributions to art and feminism.

Legacy and Reputation

In recent years, Ono’s reputation has seen a positive shift. Her presence in the documentary “The Beatles: Get Back” serves to reframe her story, showcasing her as an integral figure rather than a divisive one. Acknowledged for her participatory art forms, Ono continues to influence new generations of artists.

Sheff presents a compelling argument for viewing Ono as a survivor and a pioneering feminist voice. Her responses to challenges, such as the criticism faced when licensing “Instant Karma” to Nike, reveal her pragmatic approach: “I got $800,000 which went to the United Negro College Fund. … You have a problem with that?”

Conclusion

“YOKO: The Biography” is not just a recounting of life’s events; it serves as a thoughtful reexamination of Yoko Ono’s contributions to art, culture, and society. Through Sheff’s respectful and insightful narrative, readers gain a deeper understanding of an artist whose life and work continue to resonate today.
YOKO: The Biography | By David Sheff | Simon & Schuster | 384 pp. | $30