Annie Sprinkle

Annie Sprinkle, a luminary in the realm of sexology and performance art, has carved a unique path through her multifaceted career. Born in the vibrant cultural tapestry of New York City, Sprinkle's early life was marked by her work as a prostitute and porn star, experiences that profoundly shaped her later pursuits as an artist and an academic. Over the past four decades, she has emerged as a formidable advocate for sexual liberation and education, consistently championing the rights and health care of sex workers. Her transformative journey from the adult industry to the esteemed halls of academia—culminating in a Ph.D. and a BFA from the School of Visual Arts in New York City—exemplifies her relentless pursuit of knowledge and self-expression. A pivotal figure in the Sex Positive Movement of the 1980s, Sprinkle has left an indelible mark on the discourse surrounding sexuality and feminism. Among Sprinkle's most celebrated works is "Urban Tantra: Sacred Sex for the Twenty-First Century," a book that has garnered critical acclaim for its innovative blend of spirituality and sexuality. This seminal work explores the transcendent potential of sexual experiences, offering readers a path to deeper intimacy and personal enlightenment. Her contributions to feminist sex films, visual art, and theater performances further underscore her role as a vanguard of progressive thought, challenging societal norms and advocating for a more inclusive understanding of human sexuality. Sprinkle's literary and artistic endeavors are characterized by their daring exploration of taboo subjects and their commitment to authenticity and empowerment. Her contributions extend beyond the written word, as she engages audiences through lectures and collaborations with her partner, Beth Stephens, an artist and UCSC professor. Together, they are pioneers in the burgeoning "ecosex movement," which seeks to intertwine environmentalism with sensuality, making the pursuit of sustainability both enticing and accessible. In recognition of her groundbreaking work, Sprinkle has received prestigious honors, including the Artist/Activist/Scholar Award from Performance Studies International at Stanford and the Acker Award for Excellence in the Avant Garde. Her legacy is one of audacity, innovation, and an unwavering dedication to expanding the boundaries of art and activism.