The Prints of Barnett Newman, 1961-1969 : Book Review

"The Prints of Barnett Newman 1961-1969" offers a captivating and visually stunning exploration of Barnett Newman's lesser-known prints, shedding light on this aspect of his abstract expressionist work. Renowned scholar Richard Field provides a comprehensive analysis of Newman's experimentation with prints during a crucial period in his artistic career.

Field's meticulous examination of Newman's printmaking techniques gives readers insight into the artist's creative process and the evolution of his unique visual language. Through insightful analysis, he contextualizes Newman's prints within the broader context of his overall artistic practice, offering deeper understanding of the recurring themes and ideas in his work.

One of the highlights of this book is the extensive collection of high-quality reproductions of Newman's prints. These reproductions allow readers to fully appreciate the intricacies and complexities of his compositions, and the careful attention to detail enhances the reader's understanding of Newman's innovative use of color, form, and scale.

Field's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the book suitable for both scholars and art enthusiasts. The book's organization and layout are well-executed, providing a seamless reading experience that enhances the overall enjoyment of the material.

Overall, "The Prints of Barnett Newman 1961-1969" is an essential read for anyone interested in Barnett Newman's works or the history of abstract expressionism. Field's expertise and the comprehensive nature of this book make it an invaluable resource for art lovers and researchers alike, offering a deep dive into a lesser-explored aspect of a renowned artist's career.

What are readers saying?

"The Prints of Barnett Newman, 1961-1969" by Barnett Newman has garnered a mixed response from readers, generating both praise and disappointment.

Numerous readers commended the book for its extensive compilation of Barnett Newman's prints from the specified period. They found the prints visually captivating and appreciated the author's in-depth analysis and historical context. The high-quality images and printing techniques employed in the book were also lauded, effectively showcasing Newman's artistic talent. Furthermore, some readers felt that the book provided valuable insights into Newman's creative process and artistic growth during this particular timeframe.

On the other hand, some readers expressed disappointment with the book. They felt that the selected prints lacked diversity and failed to adequately represent the full range of Newman's work. There were also concerns that the book didn't provide sufficient background information on the artist and his techniques, making it less accessible for those unfamiliar with Newman's art. Additionally, a few readers found the analysis of the prints to be excessively theoretical and challenging to grasp, hampering their overall enjoyment of the book.

In summary, "The Prints of Barnett Newman, 1961-1969" received mixed feedback from readers. While many admired the comprehensive collection and analysis of prints, praising the book for its visual appeal and historical context, others expressed disappointment with the lack of variety and accessibility. Some readers struggled with the theoretical analysis, believing that the book would have benefited from additional information about the artist and his techniques. Ultimately, opinions on the book varied, with some readers finding it to be a valuable resource for understanding Barnett Newman's prints from this specific period, while others felt it fell short of their expectations.