Title
Pictures of Nothing: Abstract Art since Pollock (The A. W. Mellon Lectures in the Fine Arts, 48),Used
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An illuminating exploration of the meaning of abstract art by acclaimed art historian Kirk Varnedoe'What is abstract art good for? What's the usefor us as individuals, or for any societyof pictures of nothing, of paintings and sculptures or prints or drawings that do not seem to show anything except themselves?' In this invigorating account of abstract art since Jackson Pollock, eminent art historian Kirk Varnedoe, the former chief curator of painting and sculpture at the Museum of Modern Art, asks these and other questions as he frankly confronts the uncertainties we may have about the nonrepresentational art produced in the past five decades. He makes a compelling argument for its history and value, much as E. H. Gombrich tackled representation fifty years ago in Art and Illusion, another landmark A. W. Mellon Lectures volume. Realizing that these lectures might be his final work, Varnedoe conceived of them as a statement of his faith in modern art and as the culminating example of his lucidly pragmatic and philosophical approach to art history. He delivered the lectures, edited and reproduced here with their illustrations, to overflowing crowds at the National Gallery of Art in Washington in the spring of 2003, just months before his death.With brilliance, passion, and humor, Varnedoe addresses the skeptical attitudes and misunderstandings that we often bring to our experience of abstract art. Resisting grand generalizations, he makes a deliberate and scholarly case for abstractionshowing us that more than just pure looking is necessary to understand the selfmade symbolic language of abstract art. Proceeding decade by decade, he brings alive the history and biography that inform the art while also challenging the received wisdom about distinctions between abstraction and representation, modernism and postmodernism, and minimalism and pop. The result is a fascinating and ultimately moving tour through a half century of abstract art, concluding with an unforgettable description of one of Varnedoe's favorite works.
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- Q: How many pages does this book have? A: This book has three hundred twenty pages. It provides an in-depth exploration of abstract art through various essays and discussions.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This book is hardcover bound. Hardcover books are known for their durability and attractive presentation.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The dimensions of the book are nine point zero two inches in length, one point two six inches in width, and nine point seven six inches in height. These dimensions make it a convenient size for reading and display.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author is Kirk Varnedoe. He was an acclaimed art historian known for his insightful discussions on modern and abstract art.
- Q: What category does this book fall under? A: This book falls under the category of Criticism. It critically examines the significance of abstract art in modern culture.
- Q: What is the main theme of this book? A: The main theme is the exploration of abstract art and its value. Varnedoe addresses common misconceptions and presents a scholarly case for abstraction.
- Q: Is this book suitable for beginners in art? A: Yes, this book is suitable for beginners. It presents complex ideas in an accessible manner while engaging with fundamental questions about abstract art.
- Q: Can this book be used as a reference for art studies? A: Yes, this book can be used as a reference. It provides historical context and critical analysis, making it valuable for art students and enthusiasts.
- Q: What should I do if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, you should contact the seller immediately for a return or replacement. Most sellers have policies in place for such situations.
- Q: Is there a warranty for this book? A: No, typically books do not come with a warranty. However, you can check with the seller for their specific return policies.
- Q: How should I store this book to keep it in good condition? A: Store this book upright on a shelf to avoid warping. Keep it away from direct sunlight and moisture to preserve the binding and pages.
- Q: Can I read this book if I have no background in art history? A: Yes, you can read this book without an art history background. The author explains concepts clearly, making it approachable for all readers.
- Q: Are there illustrations in this book? A: Yes, there are illustrations included in this book. They complement the text and provide visual context for the discussions on abstract art.
- Q: What makes this book a significant read? A: This book is significant because it offers a compelling argument for the value of abstract art. Varnedoe's insights challenge common perceptions and enrich the discourse on modern art.
- Q: Does this book cover art from specific decades? A: Yes, this book covers abstract art from various decades. It explores the evolution of abstract art over the past fifty years.