How to Read a Modern Painting

Understanding and Enjoying the Modern Masters

£19.95
£19.95

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The complex themes and characteristics of modern art can intimidate and baffle the casual observer.

In this accessible, practical guide, Jon Thompson explores more than 200 works, helping readers to unlock each painting’s meaning. Beginning with the Barbizon school and the Realist movement of the mid-19th century and continuing right up to the 1980s avant-garde, he analyses works by some of the greatest and most popular artists of the modern era, including Bonnard, Van Gogh, Picasso, Pollock, Rauschenberg, Warhol and Basquiat, describing each artist’s use of media and symbolism, and providing useful biographical information.

The perfect museum companion for art lovers everywhere, this book is a vibrant, informative trip through one of art history’s most compelling periods.
Extent: 400 pp
Format: Flexibound PLC (no jacket)
Publication date: 2007-02-01
Size: 24.0 x 17.0 cm
ISBN: 9780500286432
Preface • From Courbet to Warhol • Bibliography • Topographical index Index of names • Photographic acknowledgements

Press Reviews

Liberally illustrated, well-designed and, above all, thoughtful … makes us eager to seek out the originals and discover them for ourselves
Art Quarterly




About the Author

Jon Thompson is an artist, writer, curator and teacher. The former head of the fine art department at London University, he recently retired from his post as senior research professor at the University of Middlesex.

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