Customer Reviews

The Lives, Loves and Art of Arthur B. Davies

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I compliment the author on his thorough research, including letters written and received by Davies. Here lies part of the problem with the book. It is far too detailed. I would rarely say this, but the author verbally describes many of the paintings that are illustrated in the book. Why? This becomes tedeous.

I also question some of the information in the book. For example, he states that he and his mistress travelled to Europe because Davies lived in NYC with her and in the country with his wife. This seems a bit extreme to me so I did some research on [internet search company] and failed to find a single cite to support this. Why would census takers care if a man lived with a mistress? They were not throwing them in jail for it. If the author makes such a far fetched statement, then he should provide evidence of it.

The loves of Davies are not fully explored. Yes, the author tells the reader that Virginia, the first wife, shot her first husband and skipped town to NYC. This is interesting. But how is Davies affected by leading double and triple lives. Stieglitz was having his affair with O'Keeffe at this time. Stieglitz's art reflects the love of O'Keeffe, etc.

One last example. The author states that Davies, who was responsible for the Armory Show of 1913 would give tours to distinguished guests. While doing so, his posture was interpreted as a sign of arrogance. OK. But then the author tells us that Davies did not intend to appear arrogant. How does he know Davies' thoughts at such specific times?

The book has strong points, but the weaknesses ultimately overwhelm the reader. That's the gist of it. Check it out at a library and decide for yourself.