Sabine's character reflects the sacrifices often made by artists, as she is portrayed as a neglectful friend and spouse.

In a pivotal moment, Sabine's transformation into a giant pig symbolizes a shift towards genuine artistic purpose, contrasting with her earlier self-centeredness.

The novel challenges the idea that artistic genius can excuse poor behavior, echoing themes from Claire Dederer's 2023 book, "Monsters: A Fan’s Dilemma."

Baxter humorously highlights that mediocrity is often more prevalent than genius in the art world, prompting readers to question the value of art produced by less talented individuals.

Ultimately, the novel suggests that embracing the 'art monster' identity may not be as empowering for women as it seems, potentially reinforcing traditional male artist tropes.

Ella Baxter's new novel, "Woo Woo," delves into the complex interplay between creative genius and personal morality, particularly focusing on female artists in the contemporary art scene.

Set in the week leading up to a significant solo exhibition titled 'Fuck You, Help Me', the narrative follows Sabine, a mid-career conceptual artist based in Melbourne, as she grapples with artistic anxiety and mental health issues.

Sabine embodies the 'art monster' archetype, dedicating her life to her art while neglecting personal relationships and responsibilities.

The term 'art monster', popularized by Jenny Offill, describes artists, especially women, who prioritize their work over nurturing roles, a theme that resonates throughout the novel.

Her relationship with her husband, Constantine, is depicted as both supportive and strained, raising important questions about gender roles and feminism within the art community.

Baxter critiques the pressures faced by contemporary artists, illustrating the tension between the need to create art and the performance required to promote it.

As Sabine prepares for her exhibition, her self-promotion becomes increasingly intertwined with her artistic identity, complicating her role as an artist.

During this tumultuous week, she experiences bizarre events, including visions of deceased artist Carolee Schneemann and unsettling encounters with a stalker.