Gustav Klimt

by Nina Kransel

Scandal, passion, fame and misfortune--the story of Gustav Klimt's life and career is beautifully illustrated in a book designed to be as exciting as its subject matter. In this arresting volume the author discusses his paintings' frank eroticism and elaborate decorations against the background of Klimt's sensational life. She introduces readers to turn-of-the-century Vienna, a hotbed of cultural conflict and aesthetic awakening. She shows how his volatile relationship with the Viennese art world, run-ins with the law, and irrepressible sensuality shaped the artist's career. The author also considers Klimt's innovative techniques and novel approach to portraiture as well as his philosophy of painting. Finally the author reveals how a resurgent interest in Klimt's life is fueling further debate about the roles of eroticism and fashion in the art world of today.

Genres: Art

127 pages, Paperback

First published March 31, 2006

Reviews

[Francisco Moreno · Rating 4 out of 5]

El mayor descubrimiento con este libro ha sido que hay una peli con John Malkovich haciendo de Klimt. Habrá que verla.

Por lo demás, el formato, e incluso la portada, es más bien de "revista ilustrada" que de "libro".

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

Compared to most art books where the authors drone on about the artists and their works making incomprehensible comparisons, this book is tremendous! The writing is concise and specific. The illustrations are gorgeous and provide the perfect support for the text. The author does an excellent job providing information on how the place (Barcelona and Europe) and the time (early 1900s) affected Klimt's development as an artist. The only negative I have is that there was no index which given the computer capabilities today is really inexcusable. I am so pleased with this book, I will look for other titles in this series.

[Gary Drake · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick overview Klimt's life. A good consise introduction to his work and snapshot of Vienna's culture prior to WWI.

Lavish illustrations, If unfamiliar with his work you want to discovery and understand more about Klimt and his time.