Barry Schwabsky Books

New York-based Dana Schutz is widely considered one of the most talented painters of her generation.   American art critic Jerry Saltz has praised Schutz for her "daredevil style and anarchic freedom." Viewed by both critics and her peers as the ultimate painter’s painter, her canvases are filled with a lush, boldly painted cast of characters that share the bravado and oddness of Paul Gauguin, Philip Guston, and the German Expressionists. These figures populate the artist’s distinctive post-apocalyptic narratives, which are at once playful and comic and dark and foreboding. Respected art writer and critic Barry Schwabsky considers the work of this young but prolific artist’s career in its entirety, delving deep into the rich themes that make Dana Schutz one of the most important artists of her generation.

A collection of writings on art by Barry Schwabsky. “Many consider Barry Schwabsky to be the critic on painting today, even if he does write copiously on other art forms,” write editors Rob Colvin and Sherman Sam in their foreword to this selection of Schwabsky's writings. Written since the turn of the millennium, the texts in The Oberver Effect include meditations on the broader context of painting today alongside reflections on such well-known American painters as Alex Katz, Kerry James Marshall, Nicole Eisenman, and Dana Schutz, as well as practitioners from Europe and beyond—Bernard Frize, Tal R, and Ha Chonghyun among them. As Colvin and Sam point out, the book “documents a dialogue between abstraction and the image” in which “images serve less to represent their described subject than to articulate the sort of painting each one desires to be.”

From January 2005, the Saatchi Gallery, London, will hold an exhibition devoted entirely to painting, opening with works by some of the most influential European artists of our time, followed by works of a newer generation. The Triumph of Painting marks this project and should stand as the definitive book of current art.

Exploring the evolution of modernism and its impact on art since the 1960s, this collection of essays delves into various artistic movements, influential figures, and key themes that have shaped contemporary art. The writings offer critical insights and analyses, reflecting on how societal changes and technological advancements have influenced artistic expression. With a focus on both established and emerging artists, the essays provide a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and innovations within modern art.

Presents the work of 114 contemporary artists in an A-Z sequence.

The book features insightful texts by Barry Schwabsky, Kevin Power, and Omar Pascual, each offering a distinct perspective on contemporary art and culture. Through their writing, they explore themes of identity, creativity, and the evolving nature of artistic expression. The contributions provide a rich dialogue that encourages readers to engage with the complexities of modern artistic practices and their societal implications.

Amid the turmoil of the pandemic, Barry Schwabsky turned to poetry as a means of grappling with life's uncertainties. His new collection, written during the lockdown, captures the profound discord of a historical moment, blending intimate feelings with broader existential inquiries. Drawing on influences like the Third Century BCE text, his work resonates with themes of hopelessness and resilience. The poems, rich with emotional depth, ultimately reveal themselves as love poems, even in their darkest reflections.

Gillian Carnegie's work is distinguished by its unique emotional depth and an uncanny quality that sets it apart in contemporary painting. This publication offers a comprehensive exploration of her artistry, highlighting the subtle yet powerful impact of her creations. Through a calm and introspective approach, Carnegie's paintings evoke a profound response, showcasing her distinctive contribution to the art world.

Alex Katz is a prominent contemporary painter from New York, recognized since the 1960s for his striking portraits of elegant women. His work features masterful use of bold colors and precise techniques, making him a significant figure in the art world.

"Ungestüme Kompositionen" explores the vibrant landscapes of Shara Hughes, drawing inspiration from renowned artists like Matisse and van Gogh. This monograph offers a comprehensive overview of her work, showcasing her bold reinterpretation of traditional landscape painting. Hughes is a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design and has exhibited widely.