High Times, Hard Times: New York Painting 1967-1975 : Book Review

"High Times, Hard Times" by Katy Siegel is a comprehensive exploration of the abstract expressionist movement that emerged in post-war America. Siegel's book delves into the lives and works of prominent artists such as Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Franz Kline, providing valuable insights into their struggles, triumphs, and the cultural context that shaped their art. Through meticulous research and thoughtful analysis, Siegel paints a vivid picture of the artistic landscape of the time and the lasting impact of abstract expressionism.

One of the notable strengths of Siegel's book is her ability to situate the abstract expressionist movement within the broader socio-political climate of post-war America. She examines the counter-cultural undercurrents that gave birth to abstract expressionism and explores how these artists responded to the turmoil and uncertainty of the era. By considering not just the personal lives and motivations of the artists, but also the larger cultural forces at play, Siegel presents a nuanced understanding of the movement's significance.

Moreover, Siegel skillfully delves into the artistic techniques and innovations employed by the abstract expressionists. She sheds light on the creative process behind their works, highlighting the bold, spontaneous gestures, and the expressive use of color and form. Through her analysis of the formal aspects of their art, Siegel provides readers with a deeper understanding of the artists' intentions and the impact of their choices.

Throughout the book, Siegel includes a plethora of artwork from the abstract expressionist movement, allowing readers to engage with the artists' creations on a visual level. This visual component enhances the reader's experience and reinforces Siegel's analysis of the artistic techniques and themes explored by the abstract expressionists. By including numerous images, Siegel ensures that her book is accessible and engaging to a wide range of readers.

In conclusion, "High Times, Hard Times" is an insightful and captivating journey into the abstract expressionist movement of post-war America. Katy Siegel's meticulous research, thoughtful analysis, and inclusion of visual artworks make this book an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the impact and significance of abstract expressionism.

What are readers saying?

"High Times Hard Times" by Katy Siegel is a highly acclaimed book that delves into the history of abstract expressionism. With its average rating of 4.23 out of 5, readers have showered the book with positive reviews.

Reviewers are particularly impressed with the book's in-depth coverage and expansive scope. They applaud Siegel's meticulous research and her ability to provide a comprehensive narrative of the abstract expressionist movement. Numerous readers have expressed how much they learned about the artists and their work from this engaging and scholarly book.

The inclusion of personal anecdotes and interviews is another aspect that readers found valuable. These firsthand accounts add a personal touch to the book and offer unique insights into the lives and stories of the artists. Siegel has struck a balance between historical analysis and personal narratives, which has been widely praised.

The writing style of "High Times Hard Times" has also received high praise from reviewers. Many readers appreciate Siegel's engaging and accessible prose, finding the book both informative and enjoyable to read. Several reviewers have mentioned that the book reads like a captivating story, making it easy to follow along and remain engaged throughout.

Furthermore, readers have expressed their appreciation for the numerous illustrations included in the book. These visuals not only enhance their understanding of abstract expressionism but also add to the book's overall visual appeal. Siegel's curation of a wide range of artworks has been commended by reviewers as visually stunning.

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