Recent Forgeries

by Viggo Mortensen, Dennnis Hopper (Introduction), Kristine McKenna (Contributor)

Poems are layered in paintings-obscured, written over, then painted again. Found objects are treated lovingly and elevated above their humble throwaway status. Old and new rub against each other in textured works that suggest a fractured narrative composed of the artist's visual and emotional memories. This volume is an extraordinary look into the process and mind of an artist whose boundless creative output touches a myriad of media and modes of expression. Included in the book are writings, paintings, collages, assemblages, found objects, and photographs that point to the fluidity of meaning of a world in flux, as well as a special spoken-word and music CD by Mortensen. Mortensen is best known for his outstanding performances in films such as A Perfect Murder, GI Jane, and Portrait of A Lady, and Gus Van Sant's Psycho. He is also the author of several books of poetry and other writings.

Genres: Poetry, Photography, Art, Fiction

110 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1998

About the author

Viggo Peter Mortensen, Jr. is a Golden Globe- and Academy Award-nominated Danish American theater and movie actor, poet, musician, photographer and painter.

He is perhaps best known for his roles as Aragorn in Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings film trilogy, Frank T. Hopkins in Hidalgo, David Shaw in A Perfect Murder, Tom Stall in David Cronenberg's A History of Violence and as Nikolai Luzhin in Cronenberg's Eastern Promises.

Reviews

[Steven Godin · Rating 5 out of 5]

When immediately thinking of Viggo Mortensen the first thing that pops into my head isn't The Lord of the Rings that's for sure.

This is the second book I've managed to get hold of by the multi-talented actor/artist/photographer/poet, and it's another absolute stunner.

The accompanying CD of poetry readings - with an eerie and beautiful musical score that plays softly in the background - was equally as good. Such a voice. So calming.
He even sings here too.

Didn't want to take my headphones off so just played it on repeat for while whilst going through the book.

[Addicted to Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Unique Experience Stars !

Wow! The CD was magical. It transported me to sublime places and induced peaceful feelings.
The book filled photographs of his son and wife and family and with odd juxtapositions and poetry.

I have to purchase a copy soon.


*Copy from library

[Pierce Morton]

Cool glimpse of Viggo as artist!

[Yvonne Glasgow · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered this, wrapped in plastic, at a thrift store. I didn't know what to expect, but recognizing Viggo's name I figured, "Why not?" I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised. I am a creative person also and put my creativity into many outlets as well. I found Viggo's art to be inspiring. I found his photos to be telling. I was intrigued by the poetry included in this book. As I type this I am listening to some painful noises emitting from the accompanying CD. I love the sound of Viggo's voice reading his poetry, it's entrancing. The lounge music was mesmerizing. This is a must own. I am so glad I stumbled upon it.

[Lucy Takeda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think I’d actually rate this 3.5, partly because there are some poems in other languages that I can’t read. The introduction is an interesting commentary. The visit section I found fascinating. I haven’t listened to the record yet. Viggo says his art demonstrates his interest in color. I really like La Reina du Soleil.

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

Totally Viggo -- writing and artwork. Problem is the book smells like it was soaked in gasoline for 100 years. I have "aired" it out for 2 years and although it is not as strong, it still stinks. Big disappointment. Came with a CD -- very good.

[Jennifer B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Both the book and the CD are lovely. I haven't seen all of his work, but it'd be hard to top this one for me personally.