Walton Ford: Tigers of Wrath, Horses of Instruction

by Steven Katz, Dodie Kazanjian

Working in the tradition of such legendary animal painters as John James Audubon, Walton Ford brings new life and vigor to the great legacy of artist/natural historians. The sheer visual beauty and superb workmanship makes a startling contrast with their sometimes violent imagery and trenchant political and social commentary on history, colonialism, and the precarious relationship between man and animal.
Walton Tigers of Wrath, Horses of Instruction is the first survey of his paintings. This volume includes an essay by screenwriter Steven Katz, who describes the artist's formative years and developing interest in natural history. In his interview with Dodie Kazanjian, the artist discusses the complex interweaving of ideas, personal memories, and historical events that forms the imaginative and intellectual armature of his paintings.

Genres: Art

72 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2002

Reviews

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Walton Ford's obsessive Neo-Audubon prints are a wonder of storytelling and the detail is flawless - a must for art lovers.

[Katya · Rating 4 out of 5]

An absolutely gorgeous artist! Ford's manner reminds me of the naturalists of 18-19 centuries like Ernst Haeckel. But it would be an Ernst Haeckel who somehow was able to watch Pulp Fiction and it had changed him forever: seemingly serene Ford's paintings are full of humor that is quite dark and acid.

Like 19 century naturalists' paintings Ford's paintings also have pencil text on them, but it is not just the Latin name of the species or smth like that. Ford's signage is usually an excerpt form a culturally meaningful text, and together with the title and the image it helps to construe the meaning of the painting. (And that is why I am taking one star off this edition - very few paintings are accompanied by the printout of the text, and the quality of print in the book is not good enough to read it on the painting - not with my eyesight anyway)

[Erin Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of my new favorite artists (Thanks interlibrary loan!)
I recommend the newer book, Pancha Tantra, over this one. The reproductions are better, and more pieces are included.

This volume did have nice quotes that introduced some pieces. The interview with Ford in the back was especially illuminating for myself, since I didn't know much about this artist until recently.

[Mrs. Musrum's Mum Keleher · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most exciting artist working today. I love everything about Walton Ford - his technical ability, his profound knowledge of animals, natural history and colonialism, his astute commentary, and exceptional beauty of his work.

[Devon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Obsessed.

[Jedkimball]

Amazing wonderful book!

[Drew]

Want this.