I often find that when I buy books on Artists ,as a painter myself, to have the expectation of finding about their work process. The introduction to the artists life, the geopolitical situation in which the artist is found in, the drama that their life journey takes is what often the focus is. And that is what excites most when comes to knowing a person, I myself enjoy very much that as well, however, that alone does not fulfil my curiosity regarding the artist. I also want to know their working method, their artistic education, materials used etc. And this book seemed to focus exactly on that.
From the title but as well as the front and back cover, the promise of a thorough investigation.
In short, this is a a PhD Research into Anders Zorn materials and techniques. Specifically, on how his techniques evolved over the years and how his watercolour practice infiltrates into his oil painting practice.
That said, it is worth noting that the works features here are limited, but nonetheless, it gives great insight to some of Zorn's practice.
The book can be incredibly technical at moments, but nothing that cant be understood.
One of the things I most enjoyed was also being able to see some of his preparatory works that I never seen before. The sketches and oil studies in preparation for his bigger projects I find most insightful. They are not words but lines, shapes and colours , thought processes, problem solving, the map for what is to come. But like many things, not everything goes always like planned, and adjustments and changes are made. As a painter, seeing them is always interesting, to understand what makes 'a better painting' in their minds.
On the other hand I didn't find much surprises in the book, many of Zorn's method is in line with the European 19th century academic art practice. Even thought this books was not set for it, I wished it covered more of his work, including more of his watercolours, oils, pencils and etchings. Also I would've liked a more detail accounts into his artistic training at Swedish Royal academy of Fine Arts in Stockholm. But all of that is another hand full of PhD papers, I understand I ask too much, but I can always wish.
So, on its own, this is not a book I would recommend. It does not cover Zorn's life aside from bullet points and a short paragraph, not many of his work is featured, as it narrows its efforts only to his materials and techniques. But as an addition to your other Anders Zorn books, this is a most welcome addition, filling the gap that I always find when buying art books.
One minor inconvenience regarding this book is that is only available through the Zorn Museum ( Mora, Sweden ), but all is good, as a simple email is quickly replied by a very helpful and kind personnel from the museum.
The price is 340 SK which is roughly £25 , and international shipping to the UK 290 SK, roughly £21 , so if you can, pay a visit in person and save on shipping costs.
( rough and quick book flick in order not to spoil too much of its content )
3/5 *** A great addition if you have other Zorn books but not as a stand alone book
Doesn't cover lots of his work
No access for purchase at major retailers, making International shipping costly
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