Tracey Emin's works "Is Anal Sex Legal?" and "Is Legal Sex Anal?" are a pair of neon text pieces created in 1998 that highlight her unique approach to art through the use of provocative and personal themes. These neon signs are written in Emin's distinctive handwriting, adding a layer of intimacy and personal expression to the public and often commercial medium of neon signage (Christie's) (Christie's) .

"Is Anal Sex Legal?" and "Is Legal Sex Anal?" are among the early examples of Emin’s neon works, which have become a significant part of her artistic repertoire. The phrases themselves are deliberately provocative, designed to challenge societal norms and taboos surrounding sexuality. Emin often uses her personal experiences as the foundation for her work, and these pieces are no exception. They reflect her ongoing exploration of sexual themes and her willingness to address issues that are often considered taboo in society (Christie's) (TheCollector) .

The works draw attention not only to the explicit subject matter but also to the broader questions about legality, morality, and societal expectations surrounding sexual behavior. Emin's use of neon, a material commonly associated with advertising and urban nightlife, juxtaposes the personal and public, creating a stark contrast that amplifies the work's impact. The repetition and inversion of the phrases in the two pieces encourage viewers to consider the complexities and dualities inherent in discussions of sex and legality (Christie's) (Christie's) (Christie's) .

Exhibited in various prominent venues, including the Tate Britain and the Hayward Gallery, these works have been part of significant retrospectives that showcase Emin's bold and confessional style. By addressing topics such as anal sex, Emin confronts the viewer with issues that are often relegated to private discourse, bringing them into the public eye and forcing a reevaluation of societal norms (Christie's) (Christie's) (TheCollector) .

"Is Anal Sex Legal?" and "Is Legal Sex Anal?" exemplify Tracey Emin's fearless approach to art, where personal narrative, societal critique, and bold presentation intersect to create works that are both challenging and thought-provoking. These pieces continue to be relevant in discussions about gender, sexuality, and the role of art in addressing taboo subjects.