Exploring Climax Books: A Bold Venture into Vintage Erotica and Contemporary Art
Climax Books is a rare book dealership known for vintage erotica and a diverse collection of titles in art, fashion, and theory. Founded by Isabella Burley in New York, Climax Books features an eye-catching design, with hot pink windows and a mirrored wall showcasing vibrant art. The dealership offers first editions, including works by Yayoi Kusama and Wolfgang Tillmans, and contemporary titles from artists like Precious Okoyomon.
Burley emphasizes the importance of reviving under-recognized works for new audiences. She initially launched Climax online in 2020 and expanded to a London pop-up in 2023, later opening a permanent London store. The New York location, which opened in late 2023, has a minimalist and edgy aesthetic.
Climax Books collaborates with designers like Chopova Lowena, offering unique clothing lines that reflect its artful ethos. In October 2023, Climax published its first book, “Pissing Women” by Sophy Rickett, which showcases provocative photography intended to reach new generations. Burley is also focused on expanding Climax’s publishing program, blending archival and contemporary works.
What motivated Isabella Burley to focus on vintage erotica and underrecognized literature at Climax Books?
Interview with Isabella Burley, Founder of Climax Books
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today, Isabella. Climax Books has quickly established a reputation for its unique collection and striking aesthetic. Can you tell us what inspired you to start Climax Books?
Isabella Burley: Absolutely. The idea behind Climax Books was born out of a passion for underrecognized literature, particularly in the realms of vintage erotica, art, and theory. I wanted to create a space where these works could be celebrated and made accessible to new audiences. The vibrant design—like the hot pink windows—reflects the spirit of the titles we carry and aims to draw people in.
Interviewer: The visual presentation of Climax Books is certainly eye-catching. How do you curate the collection, and what types of titles can visitors expect to find?
Isabella Burley: Our collection is carefully curated to include both first editions from significant artists, like Yayoi Kusama and Wolfgang Tillmans, and contemporary works from emerging voices, such as Precious Okoyomon. Each title is chosen for its ability to provoke thought and foster conversation. We are dedicated to not only preserving the past but also connecting it to the present.
Interviewer: You originally launched Climax online during the pandemic. What prompted the decision to open a permanent store in London and a recent location in New York?
Isabella Burley: The online launch allowed us to reach a global audience, but there’s something irreplaceable about a physical space—it’s an invitation to explore, to smell the books, and to experience the community. The success of our London pop-up indicated a demand for a permanent location, and the New York store, which opened in late 2023, mirrors that edgy, minimalist aesthetic we cherish in our brand. We want it to feel like an experience beyond just shopping.
Interviewer: Collaborations seem integral to your business model. Can you elaborate on your partnerships, like those with Chopova Lowena?
Isabella Burley: Yes, collaborating with designers like Chopova Lowena allows us to bridge the gap between literature and fashion, extending our artful ethos beyond just books. These unique clothing lines reflect the themes and aesthetics that we promote at Climax, and they offer customers a way to engage with our brand on a different level.
Interviewer: In October 2023, Climax published its first book, “Pissing Women” by Sophy Rickett. What was the vision behind this publication?
Isabella Burley: “Pissing Women” is a significant milestone for us. It showcases provocative photography that challenges societal narratives. We aim to spark conversations that resonate with both new and established audiences. It melds perfectly with our mission to revive underappreciated works and reach new generations.
Interviewer: Looking forward, what are your ambitions for Climax Books in terms of expansion and collaborations?
Isabella Burley: Our mission is evolving; while books will always be the foundation of Climax, I envision a broader reach that includes interdisciplinary collaborations across various fields. Whether it’s art, fashion, or beyond, the goal is to continue blending archival and contemporary works while pushing boundaries and creating inclusive spaces for dialogue.
Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your insights, Isabella. It’s exciting to see how Climax Books is shaping the literary and artistic community.
Isabella Burley: Thank you for having me! I’m excited about what’s ahead for Climax and the impact we hope to make.
Burley seeks future collaborations across various fields, emphasizing that books are the foundation of Climax but have evolved into something much larger.