As spring approaches, March brings an exciting selection of new art books perfect for reading in the park. Art enthusiasts can delve into the catalog accompanying the Helen Schjerfbeck exhibition at The Met, while a reissued work by Janie Paul coincides with a long-standing exhibition focusing on artists incarcerated in Michigan prisons. This month also features intriguing explorations of gender in medieval alchemical imagery and the occult's influence on modernism.
Seeing Silence: The Paintings of Helene Schjerfbeck, edited by Dita Amory | Metropolitan Museum of Art, January
This catalog chronicles the evolution of Finnish painter Helene Schjerfbeck, whose powerful portraiture challenges the traditional narratives surrounding female artists in Europe. It includes essays by curator Dita Amory and Finnish art historian Anna-Maria von Bonsdorff, highlighting her impactful role in a male-dominated art scene.
Lettres Décoratives: A Century of French Sign Painters' Alphabets by Morgane Côme | Letterform Archive Books, February
This visually stunning book offers a deep dive into the history of French sign painting, showcasing beautiful illustrations from the 19th to mid-20th century. It appeals to both history buffs and art lovers, revealing the artistry behind everyday sign aesthetics.
Pao Houa Her: The Imaginative Landscape, edited by Lauren Dickens | Inventory Press, February
Pao Houa Her's photo-based work captures the essence of the Hmong diaspora, blending nostalgia with a sense of new beginnings. Her art serves as a bridge connecting past and present, reflecting the community's journey and aspirations in the United States.
The Alchemical Feminine: Women, Gender, and Sexuality in Alchemical Images by M. E. Warlick | Fulgur Press, February
Warlick's latest publication examines the intersection of feminism and alchemy, exploring the roles of women in historical alchemical imagery. With over 200 illustrations, this book provides a fascinating insight into the gendered language of alchemical texts.
Hidden Modernism: The Fascination with the Occult Around 1900 | Walther König, March
This book investigates the relationship between art and the occult in late 19th and early 20th-century Vienna, revealing how spiritualism influenced modernist artists. It complements an exhibition at Vienna's Leopold Museum, showcasing the works of influential artists like Oskar Kokoschka and Koloman Moser.
Avery, Gottlieb & Rothko: By the Sea, edited by Eliza Rathbone | Rizzoli Electa, March
This catalog explores the interconnectedness of Milton Avery, Adolph Gottlieb, and Mark Rothko, shedding light on their artistic relationships and contributions to modern American art. It encourages readers to reconsider the narratives surrounding 20th-century art.
Making Art in Prison: Survival and Resistance by Janie Paul | Hat & Beard Press, reissue
Celebrating its 30th anniversary, this reissue showcases the artworks of artists from Michigan prisons, highlighting their stories and the profound impact of creativity in challenging circumstances. It serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.
These diverse titles not only celebrate artistic expression but also invite readers to reflect on the transformative power of art in society. As we embrace these narratives, we envision a future where art continues to inspire, connect, and foster understanding across communities.