Art Lovers discussion

I always knew that Goya would be an interesting character. I vaguely recall hearing about how he often parodied his courtly subjects. In reading Goya, I find out this is true and not true. This ambiguity being something that was so common of him. Goya was such a complex man. One thing is for sure, he was adept at ladening his work (which would be controversial even by today's standards, if the layman could interpret art) with social, religious, and sexual innuendos and commentary.
The book is over 400 pages, but is not a painful read. Goya's work is generously sprinkled throughout, which is a good way to explain the art. That being said Goya is not a coffee table book. The book is not as much about his work as about the man. Robert Hughes provides plently of his own personality as well. He is clearly anti-church and has an affinity for Goya because of this. That being said, I did not find him doggedly so. In most cases the institutions of the 18th and 19th century were clearly malificent.
Goya encourages me to read more on these fascinating creatures called artists as this is the first true biography I have read on one.

Hotavio, I have not really had the desire to become more acquainted with Goya, but after reading your review where you stated 'The book is not as much about his work as about the man', I am more interested in this 'interesting character'. I enjoy biographies and think I will add this one to my to-read list!

The book really helps one understand European society and the Spanish culture as well. Goya was a master critic of both and seemed to be on the fringe of just about on the fringe of every topic, never sparing a thought. Some things I found to be almost offensibly true, at least based on my meager and modern understandings.

I want to read about the Spanish civil war. So many books so little time!

Yes the Civil War sounds like it would be an interesting read. Any thing related to Napoleon is fascinating to me.

Often I read about subjects that have affected friends. I know a Spanish man who moved to Peru, something that I learned from him was common as a result of those conflicts.

Believe me, I'm not your typical American gal but I didn't know about the English Civil War, just OURS!

I think this is my favorite book where the artist, his art and the times of the artist are integrated into a complete picture of the artist and what part his times play in his art

Monica, Sorry after rereading your post I realized you were referring to the one in the 1930s. Hahah. I need to read more on that war. I agree that one can deduce the gravity of that war by talking with anyone from Spain, whether they were directly or indirectly affected.
English Civil War-Stuart era?
Jim, I agree with you.

Hi Hovatio!

Yes, Cromwell, satan himself.

Hovatio you words make me want to read this book. I studeid some of Goya's works in my art school but i'd never read about his life.And i love biographies, so i think i'll like this. I'll try to find this book here. Thanks :)

Thanks Reem.

Monica, ha ha, are you a Cavalier?

No, Irish!

ah...makes sense.

:-)