Customer Reviews

Dance

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"Dance" is a happy little collection ofpostcard-sized pictures. The images are arranged on pages opposite tosmall related quotations lifted from Keith Haring's journal (alsoavailable ...). The pictures are mainly contain a single-figure in 2 or 3 colours, perfect for the size of paper available and it works very well within the layout of the book. From decks to breakdancers to ballerinas - the images are as enduring as they are lurid in their fluorescent colours! It is a handsome book (in hardback with smart dust jacket) and would make a brilliant gift for a Haring fan, especially if they were into a form of dance too. We bought it for a DJ friend of ours but everyone who read it found it impossible not to find at least one favourite picture amongst them all which deserved more coverage!

"Dance," by Keith Haring, brings together a number of illustrations by the artist (who died from AIDS-related complications in 1990), together with quotes from his own journals about dance and other arts. This is a beautiful book, full of energy and joy. Haring's images have a uniquely funky poetry to them. Whether he's creating a robot DJ, whimsical animals, or tribal/iconic looking humanoid figures, Haring imprints his distinctive style upon all.

My only problem with the book involves the following editorial note on the publication data page: "The Keith Haring artwork in this book has been reproduced faithfully; however, the colors of some works have been altered." So. . . which colors have been altered, and why? I'm of the opinion that you don't mess with the work of a master artist unless you have a very good reason, and the editors of this book fail to fully explain this matter of alteration.

But despite this matter, Haring's vision shines through. He wrote, "The freedom of the artist is symbolic of the human spirit in all mankind." Haring's appeal transcends all barriers of difference, and "Dance" truly speaks to that universal human spirit.

A short, brightly illustrated picture book featuring Keith Haring's stylized figures dancing. Each page is filled with bold designs, repeated patterns and implied movement. The florescent blues, oranges and yellows stimulate the eye and show interest. The book also contains Keith Haring quotations intended to provoke thought and understanding of his work. These quotations are difficult for younger students to fully grasp. The pictures, however are ageless and appropriate for use in a classroom.