Rex Ray

by Griff Williams, Rebecca Solnit (Contributor), Christian Frock (Contributor)

Rex Ray celebrates life, work, and legacy of iconic San Francisco fine artist Rex Ray (1956–2015).

This comprehensive volume features more than 100 of his works on canvas, wood, and paper—including never-before-seen pieces courtesy of the Rex Ray estate. His playful painted-paper-collages and organic, abstract forms have earned him comparisons to artists like Paul Klee and Henri Matisse.

• Essays by celebrated writer Rebecca Solnit, art critic Christian Frock, and Ray's gallerist and friend Griff Williams
• Ray's collages and paintings are both playful and geometric.
• This vibrant book pays tribute to Ray's life and work.

Rex Ray was a successful and prolific fine artist whose art has been shown at major museums and galleries throughout the United States. Now, longtime collectors and new fans alike can revel in the beauty of Ray's inimitable body of work.

Ray's exuberantly colorful paintings and collages are a testament to the prolific artist's joy in the creative process.

• This fine art monograph is perfect for Ray's fans and collectors, as well as those discovering the power and beauty of his work for the first time.
• A perfect gift for lovers of pop art and modern design, museumgoers, fine art fans, artists, designers, and those interested in the San Francisco art scene and local history
• Great for those who loved Rex Ray: We Are All Made of Light by Griff Williams, Kevin Killa, and Rene Paul Barilleaux; House Industries: The Process Is the Inspiration by House Industries; and Barry McGee by Aaron Rose and Barry McGee

Genres: Art

176 pages, Hardcover

Published March 3, 2020

Reviews

[Charles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely gorgeous - with very, very little text. Would've loved reading a bit more as I was progressing along.

[Gina House · Rating 5 out of 5]

"We are all made of light." - Michael Patterson aka Rex Ray

I can't tell you how much the art of Rex Ray speaks to me. I'm completely mesmerized by his organic shapes, bright colors and analog collage style. I'm in awe of his brilliant technique and creativity.

When I look at his paintings, I feel as if I'm at the most lively amusement park on the very best day of my life. His art is warm, inspiring, thrillingly alive and his creations make my heart experience a wonderful bit of magic.

Thanks to the lovely artist Helen Wells (whose work I also adore) for introducing me to this amazing artist. I want to keep this book at my side all day long simply because it brings me so much joy. If only I could create pieces of art like this!

Highly, highly recommended and an absolute treasure to have in your library (or anywhere you spend the most time) to bring you joy.

[Tim Belonax · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice tribute that left me wanting more, much more. I wanted to read more. I wanted to hear from Rex. I wanted to see more of his process.

From a production standpoint, the cover and half slipcase are beautiful but there are also some low res reproductions inside that are unfortunate to encounter.

It’s a colorful firework of a book, bursting brightly for a moment, leaving this reader wanting an encore.

[Pixie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Recommended by Jackie Bernardi for collage artists. I liked the mid-century shapes.

[Denise Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent !

I love this book. The lay out of all of his Art is done so well. This is a collectors item. You will never get enough. Beautiful works.