Description
Book Synopsis: An eye-opening presentation of largely unknown figurative drawings by a renowned pioneer of abstraction. Featuring one hundred figurative works on paper by Ellsworth Kelly (1923–2015), this volume shows a new side of an artist best known for abstraction. These informal depictions of friends and expressive self-portraits—all rarely or never previously displayed or published—span the entirety of Kelly's career, from the mid-1940s to the early 2000s. Throughout his life, Kelly made portraits as a means of keeping his hand adept at drawing, which provided a place to test his ideas, refine his bold use of lines, and interrogate the space between naturalism and abstraction. These works also capture his social milieu, which intersected with other creative circles and the queer community. He painstakingly recorded how his own appearance changed over time, and once described some of these sketches by saying, "I use myself in order to draw." The accompanying critical essays unpack the ways in which such intimate efforts were fundamental to Kelly's practice and situate this important aspect of his work within the artist's wider oeuvre.
Distributed for the Art Institute of Chicago
Exhibition Schedule: Art Institute of Chicago (July 1–October 23, 2023)
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Discover a hidden treasure in the world of art with Ellsworth Kelly: Portrait Drawings! This captivating book reveals a lesser-known side of the esteemed pioneer of abstraction. Delve into the rich collection of one hundred figurative works on paper, which have never been displayed or published before. From the mid-1940s to the early 2000s, these informal depictions of friends and self-portraits offer a unique insight into Kelly's artistic journey.
What makes these drawings even more intriguing is their connection to Kelly's social milieu, intertwining with other creative circles and the vibrant queer community. They provide a fascinating glimpse into the artist's personal life and his exploration of identity through the portrayal of his own changing appearance. As Kelly himself once said, "I use myself in order to draw."
Going beyond their aesthetic value, these portrait drawings served as an essential practice for Kelly to refine his bold use of lines and experiment with the delicate balance between naturalism and abstraction. With each stroke of his pen, he pushed the boundaries of his artistic expression and honed his skills.
In conjunction with this exquisite collection of drawings, the book features critical essays that delve into the significance of these intimate works within Kelly's larger body of work. These insightful texts provide a deeper understanding and context for appreciating the brilliance of Kelly's artistic vision.
Don't miss the opportunity to delve into the hidden artistic realm of Ellsworth Kelly. Experience the striking power of his figurative works and the thought-provoking narratives they hold. Get your hands on Ellsworth Kelly: Portrait Drawings today!
Click here to explore Ellsworth Kelly: Portrait Drawings and uncover the hidden gems of this influential artist!
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