Description
Book Synopsis: A sweeping retrospective of Philip Guston’s influential work, from Depression-era muralist to abstract expressionist to tragicomic contemporary master
A Wall Street Journal 2020 holiday gift guide pick
Philip Guston–perhaps more than any other figure in recent memory–has given contemporary artists permission to break the rules and paint what, and how, they want. His winding career, embrace of “high” and “low” sources, and constant aesthetic reinvention defy easy categorization, and his 1968 figurative turn is by now one of modern art’s most legendary conversion narratives. “I was feeling split, schizophrenic. The war, what was happening in America, the brutality of the world. What kind of man am I, sitting at home, reading magazines, going into a frustrated fury about everything–and then going into my studio to adjust a red to a blue?”
And so Guston’s sensitive abstractions gave way to large, cartoonlike canvases populated by lumpy, sometimes tortured figures and mysterious personal symbols in a palette of juicy pinks, acid greens, and cool blues. That Guston continued mining this vein for the rest of his life–despite initial bewilderment from his peers–reinforced his reputation as an artist’s artist and a model of integrity; since his death 50 years ago, he has become hugely influential as contemporary art has followed Guston into its own antic twists and turns.
Published to accompany the first retrospective museum exhibition of Guston’s career in over 15 years, Philip Guston Now includes a lead essay by Harry Cooper surveying Guston's life and work, and a definitive chronology reflecting many new discoveries. It also highlights the voices of artists of our day who have been inspired by the full range of his work: Tacita Dean, Peter Fischli, Trenton Doyle Hancock, William Kentridge, Glenn Ligon, David Reed, Dana Schutz, Amy Sillman, Art Spiegelman and Rirkrit Tiravanija. Thematic essays by co-curators Mark Godfrey, Alison de Lima Greene and Kate Nesin trace the influences, interests and evolution of this singular force in modern and contemporary art–including several perspectives on the 1960s and ’70s, when Guston gradually abandoned abstraction, returning to the figure and to current history but with a personal voice, by turns comic and apocalyptic, that resonates today more than ever.
Details
Introducing the Philip Guston Now Book, a comprehensive retrospective of one of the most influential artists of our time. From his early days as a Depression-era muralist to his abstract expressionist phase and finally his tragically comic contemporary masterpieces, Guston's career has been a fascinating journey of artistic reinvention. With his unique ability to blend "high" and "low" sources and defy categorization, Guston has given contemporary artists the freedom to paint what they want and how they want.
Experience the evolution of Guston's artistry as he navigates through personal struggles and social turmoil. Breaking away from his sensitive abstractions, Guston embraced large, cartoon-like canvases populated by enigmatic figures and symbolic elements. His vibrant palette of juicy pinks, acid greens, and cool blues adds a touch of surrealism to his oeuvre, captivating art enthusiasts for generations to come.
Philip Guston continues to inspire artists today with his unwavering commitment to his unique style. Despite initial bewilderment from his peers, Guston maintained his integrity and stayed true to his vision until his passing 50 years ago. His influence on contemporary art cannot be overstated, as his legacy lives on through the magical twists and turns of the art world.
Now, for the first time in over 15 years, we are proud to present the retrospective exhibition of Philip Guston's illustrious career. The Philip Guston Now book accompanies this landmark exhibition and offers a deeper understanding of Guston's life, work, and artistic philosophy. With a lead essay by Harry Cooper, a definitive chronology, and insights from contemporary artists who draw inspiration from Guston's revolutionary approach, this book is a must-have for art enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the mind of one of modern art's true visionaries. Explore the influences, interests, and evolution of Philip Guston's work through the thematic essays by co-curators Mark Godfrey, Alison de Lima Greene, and Kate Nesin. Discover how Guston gradually abandoned abstraction, returning to the figure and current history, all the while maintaining his distinctive voice that resonates deeply in today's world.
Ready to experience the brilliance of Philip Guston? Get your copy of Philip Guston Now today and embark on a journey through the artistic genius of this legendary master.
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