Genre: Nonfiction—Art History
Completed: 23 September 2012
Summary & Review:
The life and work of Pablo Picasso are examined in this book with special sections highlighting the various mediums Picasso worked in, including prints and ceramics. Along with the text, dozens of full-color reproductions of Picasso’s paintings fill out the book.
First of all, Walther’s text and analysis were absolutely terrible. The grammar and editing were full of errors, but that is something I could put up with if the actual content had anything interesting or convincing. It didn't. Then, the subject of the book didn’t help the cause. I have never been enthralled with Picasso like many are, or Modern art in general for that matter. There are periods of his work that I find appealing, e.g. Analytical Cubism, but much of Picasso’s work seems like he knew he could basically paint or make anything and everyone would celebrate it as a work of genius. Or perhaps he just didn’t want to bother putting in the effort to truly harness his talent and make a masterpiece. Picasso seems to have been very into the mystique of “Picasso.” Throughout the book, quotes of the artist were printed in the side margins and virtually all of them were nonsensical drivel. They weren’t witty or insightful, but just the musings of someone who knew he was someone.
Rating: 4.0
I didn't know Picasso was so into himself. But I still like his stuff.
ReplyDeleteI think we may have similar views about Picasso. There are many of his works that I like and I generally like Cubism, however some of his paintings I find confusing and rushed. I have heard a lot of weird quotes from him as well.
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