Customer Reviews

Rufino Tamayo

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One of the true masters of American art of the 20th century, the Mexican artist Rufino Tamayo was able to incorporate pre-Columbian ideas and transform them into contemporary visions. This is an excellent book worth finding as there is a relatively new edition(1995) from Spain superceeding the original published in 1982. The book has beautiful color prints from the various museums of the world where the masterpieces are now found. There are over 280 color prints, an excellent chronology that includes his sculptures and murals and an informative basic bibliography for future reference. Twelve different countries house the works used in this wonderful book, more than fifty different museums or university's with the vast majority being in the United States are the basis for the incredible paintings displayed in this book. The text provided is a fascinating read in the words of the artist himself, explaining his art including thoughts on the various influences on his prolific career. Of course, the French art critic and author of several books, Jacques Lassaigne does a masterful job of discussinfg the training of Tamayo, and the influences of chemistry and geometry on the works of Tamayo. An addional bonus is the introduction by the late great poet and essayist, Octavio Paz. Paz's views come from the original 1982 publication, where Paz gives his opinions on Tamayo's works and characterizes it as a "non-human vision of space and time" and how "the sybolism of ancient art becomes transfiguration" in the hands of Tamayo. The colorful paintings, the use of symbolism as metaphor are photographed here on thick paper stock for a book that is of heirloom quality. I highly recommend seeking out this book for an experience in picture and text that is as otherworldly as the art itself. There are many books on Tamayo but this is quite simply one of the best and it is with good reason that a new edition has become available. This is a book that is inspirational and great for any lover of American art.

Knowing that this book was available and in good condition determined my decision to purchase it again. I had lost my previous copy in a flood and I was thrilled to be able to purchase a quality copy of this book. In my opinion, this is the best of all the books on Rufino Tamayo (I have them all). Tamayo is one of the great artists of the 20th century and this book gives one a comprehensive perspective of his life and work. The text by Octavio Paz & Jacques Lassaigne is absolutely wonderful. Tamayo is an artist who stands as a beacon of artistic integrity and who's life sets an example for and is an inspiration to anyone with artistic aspirations. His synthesis of cross cultural influences manifest in his unique style is a joy to absorb and this book gives one a clear and broad sense of his gifts. Also, as an artist of Zapotec Indian descent he represents a unique position in the world of multi-cultural influences and successes. This is a great book that should to be in the collection of anyone interested in significant 20th century art.