Max Beckmann in Exile
Category: Books,Arts & Photography,History & Criticism
Max Beckmann in Exile Details
The catalogue to an exhibition of Beckmann's work presented at the Guggenheim Museum SoHo - the first at an American museum in over a decade - this book explores, in essays and full-color reproductions, the artist's fruitful years in exile. Barbara Stehle-Akhtar discusses the critical reception of Beckmann's work in the United States and its stylistic development during this period. Reinhard Spieler's essay probes Beckmann's nine completed triptychs, his sweeping masterpieces that express both the mood of the times and the artist's own worldview. Fellow emigre Stephan Lackner provides a reminiscence of his friendship with and support of Beckmann. Completing the volume are a personal interpretation by contemporary artist Eric Fischl of Beckmann's first triptych, Departure, as well as writings by Beckmann that eloquently convey his thoughts on aesthetics and creativity.
Reviews
The best thing about this book is the inclusion of 3 items in Beckmann'sown words. Though not exactly direct, he is eager to share his viewpoints.But at least his almost-obscurity is interesting and colorful. In the major part of the book the authors are overly verbose, while trying to makeBeckmann's work important. It doesn't need help in that sense, as it isalready important. Beckmann did not work in a creative haze of being unsure ofwhat he was doing. He is very educated, and adept at expressing himself.The book is beautifully illustrated, and feels good in the hands. If youjust don't take the authors too seriously, it is a lovely book to own.