Subject
Post-impressionism (Art) Books
Best books
Arthur Jerome Eddy
Cubists and Post-Impressionism
"Cubists and Post-Impressionism" by Arthur Jerome Eddy is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the radical changes in the art world during the early 1900s, particularly focusing on the movements of Cubism and Post-Impressionism. It examines the reactions against Impressionism and the controversies that arose around new artistic expressions during this time, providing insights into the evolving nature of art and its critical reception. The opening of this work sets the stage for a discussion on the impact of the International Exhibition of Modern Art, held in New York and Chicago in 1913, which ignited debates about artistic innovation and originality. Eddy reflects on the significance of this exhibition in American art, highlighting the tensions between traditional forms and the emergence of new styles. He expresses the idea that art thrives on controversy, suggesting that the radical shifts towards Cubism and Post-Impressionism were essential for the evolution of the artistic landscape, urging readers to reconsider their views on what constitutes valuable art amidst the chaos of innovative forms.
Vincent van Gogh
The Letters of a Post-Impressionist Being the Familiar Correspondence of Vincent Van Gogh
"The Letters of a Post-Impressionist" by Vincent van Gogh is a collection of intimate correspondences written in the late 19th century. This volume features letters primarily exchanged between Van Gogh and his brother, Theo, offering insights into the artist's thoughts on art, life, and his personal struggles. The letters reveal Van Gogh's passion for painting, his dedication to capturing the essence of nature and humanity, and his reflections on his evolving artistic journey. At the start of the collection, Van Gogh expresses his joy in painting and shares his experiences with various artistic techniques. He describes in detail his fascination with color and nature, highlighting a sense of discovery and satisfaction in his progress as an artist. These early letters illustrate his earnest pursuit of artistic mastery, revealing the struggles he faces while trying to express the beauty he perceives in the world around him. The warmth and vulnerability in his words set the tone for a remarkable collection that not only showcases his artistic vision but also provides a glimpse into the complex psyche of one of the most iconic painters in history.
Clive Bell
Since Cézanne
"Since Cézanne" by Clive Bell is a collection of essays that critically examines the evolution of modern art in light of Cézanne's profound influence, likely written in the early 20th century. The text explores the relationship between artistic theory and practice and the pivotal role Cézanne played in shaping the movements that followed him, including Fauvism and Cubism, while addressing the implications of these shifts on contemporary painters. The opening of the work sets the stage for this exploration by acknowledging the dual focus of the essays: one on the aesthetic theories that emerged after Cézanne and the other on the significant artists influenced by his style. Bell delves into the nature of Cézanne's directness and use of distortion as an artistic method, illustrating how he prompted a generation of artists to reevaluate their own approaches to painting. Furthermore, the introduction suggests that the development of art theory had been heavily intertwined with the artistic practice initiated by Cézanne and his contemporaries, informing a broader discussion about the state of modern art within the context of historical traditions.
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