Diva

Written to accompany a year-long exhibition at London’s Victoria & Albert Museum, this collection of images and essays aims to explore the evolution and power of what it means to be a diva in the creative arts. Beginning in the 16th century, great actresses and opera stars were declared to be divas, defined then as “an empowered expression of identity in performance.” The term evolved into a cultural or professional criticism label, denoting inflated egos or overly emotive performances. By the 20th century, the title characterized artists such as Sarah Bernhardt, Josephine Baker, Bette Davis, and Marilyn Monroe. The word was given new life by the gay community in reference to artists such as Judy Garland, Diana Ross, Madonna, Lady Gaga, and RuPaul. Beyonce is quoted as saying, “A true diva is graceful and talented, and strong and fearless and brave, and someone with humility.” Activists Ella Fitzgerald and Nina Simone are portrayed in this book that way. Unfortunately, the essays inconsistently define the diva concept. While the overall execution is laudable, the book feels incomplete yet padded for length.