Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Using the recent conservation effort as jumping off point, this book serves to deconstruct Jackson Pollock's renowned Mural, which was the abstract expressionist artist's first major commission. The authors situate this wall-size painting as a formative work for the then relatively-unknown painter and proceed to analyze it using a combination of anecdote, art historical analysis, scientific imaging. There's a familiar discussion of possible artistic influences, including German artist Paul Klee and British printmaker Stanley William Hayter; however, this speculation pales in comparison to the new information provided by scans and sample analysis. Analytical imaging reveals 25 separate paint applications in a 356 square-inch section of the nearly 20 foot long canvas, while hyperspectral imaging shows the area and shape in which Pollock inscribed distinct colors. Several cross-sections of paint layers are printed in the book, providing intimate topographical views of the painting. The probing investigation into Mural sheds new light on Pollock's work process and approach to paint, and offers a rare close-up look at an influential work. Color photos. (Mar.) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.
Review by Library Journal Review
In 1943, the relatively unknown Jackson Pollock (1912-56), highly recommended by artists Piet Mondrian and Marcel -Duchamp, was commissioned by art collector Peggy Guggenheim to create a large mural for her New York apartment. At the time, the - 8' x 20' canvas was the largest surface on which he had ever worked. In 2012, Mural was taken to the Getty Conservation Institute for restoration and study. A by-product of its stay at the institute is this book compiled by conservators Szafran and Laura Rivers; conservation scientists Alan -Phenix and Tom Learner; and Ellen G. Landau (Andrew W. Mellon Professor Emerita of Humanities, Case Western Reserve Univ.) Here is a treasure trove of detailed information on Pollock, the mural, the techniques used, and even the paint, and boasts an introduction by comedian and art collector Steve Martin. Stories surrounding the creation of Mural abound and are also explored in detail. The appendix shares the scientific methods and instrumentation that was used during the study and restoration. VERDICT A compelling treat for Pollock fans. While well researched and well written, this book details only one work of art by the artist; therefore, it is quite specialized. This may appeal only to those studying art or deeply interested in Pollock.-Sandra Knowles, South Carolina State Lib., Columbia (c) Copyright 2014. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
