Edward Lucie-Smith Book order

Focusing on the dynamic art of Titian, this essay by Edward Lucie-Smith delves into a major exhibition at the National Gallery in London, showcasing key paintings from the High Italian Renaissance. It reflects on the challenges of visiting the exhibit during the pandemic, including pre-booking and safety measures. Lucie-Smith argues that despite these hurdles, experiencing Titian's work is invaluable, as he stands as a monumental figure in Western art history, influencing painting, drawing, sculpture, and architecture of the 15th and 16th centuries.

Focusing on Salvador Dalí's evolution, the book delves into his childhood, early artistic experiments, and rise within Parisian high society during the 1930s. It highlights his role in the Surrealist movement from 1928 to 1939, exploring the complexities of his creative personality through essays by Nicholas James and Edward Lucie-Smith. Additionally, the collection "Small Histories" presents essays and reviews on significant Western artworks and artists from 1993 to 2011, revealing connections between classic and contemporary art through over seventy pieces.

Exploring the concept of 'late style,' this exhibition focuses on the final periods of Rembrandt and Turner, two towering figures of European art. The displays at London's National Gallery and Tate Britain emphasize their later works, challenging the modern myth that artists achieve a transcendent quality in their twilight years. Covering Rembrandt's last decade post-bankruptcy and Turner's final years, the exhibitions highlight the artists' significant contributions despite their relatively short lifespans by today's standards.

The book explores the intricate art of Jasper Johns, emphasizing his use of complex, arbitrary rules that contrast sharply with the spontaneity of Abstract Expressionism. His works often feature mirrored or concealed images, transforming them into puzzles for viewers to decipher. This intellectual engagement fosters a lasting appeal among art critics, who derive satisfaction from unraveling his artistic riddles while also reflecting on the challenges faced by those less familiar with his techniques. The introductory essay delves into this enigmatic quality of Johns' art.

Celebrated art historian Edward Lucie-Smith offers insightful reviews and critiques that delve into the world of art. His works reflect a deep understanding of artistic movements and the evolution of visual culture, making complex ideas accessible to a broad audience. Through his engaging writing, Lucie-Smith not only examines individual artists and their contributions but also explores the broader themes and contexts that shape the art world. Readers can expect a blend of scholarly analysis and personal reflection in his explorations of art history.

Exploring the evolving concept of 'avant-garde' in contemporary art, the book critiques its ironic usage as it begins to imply being outdated rather than progressive. The term, rooted in military language, reflects a time when artists actively challenged social norms. However, just as modern warfare lacks a defined structure, so does the realm of art, leading to a subjective interpretation of what constitutes art. This shift raises questions about the hierarchy of artistic innovation and the fluidity of creative expression in today's landscape.

The exhibition review delves into John Constable's family background, career evolution, and artistic techniques. It highlights notable works such as The Leaping Horse, Cottage in East Bergholt, and Rainstorm at Sea. Additionally, the review features essays by Edward Lucie-Smith and Janet Barber, offering further insights into Constable's impact and legacy. Through this exploration, the exhibition presents a comprehensive understanding of Constable's contributions to art and his distinctive style.

Focusing on the creative journeys of four prominent artists, the survey delves into the evolving work and ideas of Lubaina Himid, Yinka Shonibare CBE, Hew Locke, and filmmaker Steve McQueen. It includes a detailed review of Himid's exhibition "Nuance and Interpretation" at Tate Modern, highlighting her diverse artistic expressions such as paintings, sculptures, and sound environments, showcasing her contributions since 1997. Recorded conversations and insights from the Cv/Visual Arts Research Archive enrich the exploration of these artists' impactful narratives.

Focusing on the profound psychological impact of World War I, this study examines how poets and visual artists expressed the war's calamity. It features prominent figures like Eric Kennington, Siegfried Sassoon, and Otto Dix, exploring their works alongside historical references from artists such as Velázquez and Goya. The author highlights the continuity of themes regarding the spectacle of battle and the horrors of war, offering a comprehensive analysis of art and poetry during this tumultuous period.

The book explores the significance of portraiture in modern and contemporary art through the lens of two prominent exhibitions in London: one focusing on Alberto Giacometti's portrait work at the National Portrait Gallery and the other showcasing Frank Auerbach's career at Tate Britain. It delves into the artistic techniques and themes presented in these exhibitions, offering insights into how these artists have shaped the portrayal of identity and human experience in their respective eras.