I’ve had a lovely little run of books about art recently and can recommend the following:
Everything is Happening: Journey into a Painting by Michael Jacobs is about the Velasquez masterpiece ‘Las Meninas’. Sadly the author died before completing the book, which was edited and added to by his friend Ed Vulliamy, but there was a lot of interesting information and it was an intriguing read.
Van Gogh’s Ear by Bernadette Murphy was a fascinating examination of what actually happened on that night in Arles when Vincent cut off his ear (which ear, how much of his ear, who did he give it to, and why did he do it?).
The Last Painting of Sara de Vos by Dominic Smith, a novel that mixes the historical and contemporary, Sydney and Holland, art forgery and exhibition detail, was a good read.
What are your favourite books about art? Have you enjoyed reading any of these titles? Please let me know by leaving a comment.
Everything Is Happening, Journey Into a Painting by Michael Jacobs
Van Gogh’s Ear by Bernadette Murphy
The Last Painting of Sara de Vosby Dominic Smith
I only recommend books I have read and know. Some of these links are my affiliate links. If you buy a book by clicking on one of these links I receive a small commission. It doesn’t cost you anything extra, but does help cover the cost of producing my free newsletter.
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Judith Smith
I received “Van Gogh’s Ear: The True Story” as a Christmas gift and really enjoyed it. Others I have read recently and enjoyed are “The Lady in Gold” – the true story of Adele Bloch – Blair, the model for Klimt’s famous painting and ” Rembrandt’s Mirror” by Kim Devereaux, a historical novel based on the artist’s life after the death of his beloved wife.
Susannah Fullerton
I loved the film ‘The Woman in Gold’ but didn’t realise there was a book out about Adele Bloch. Thanks for letting me know. I will also look out for ‘Rembrandt’s Mirror. There’s an exhibition of Dutch art coming to the Art Gallery of NSW late this year, so it would prepare me for that.
Gabrielle Black
I loved John Mortimer’s ‘Summer Lease’ which made famous the Piero Della Francesco Trail. Good read.
Susannah Fullerton
I know very little of Della Francesca, so will definitely add that to my reading list. Thanks Gabrielle.
Walter Mason
Susannah, as a child of the 80s I am afraid I am utterly devoted to Andy Warhol, and after his unintentionally brilliant “Diaries” (sadly I am not mentioned in the index), the book I like best is Bob Colacello’s “Holy Terror: Andy Warhol Close Up.” It was one of those books that everyone was reading when I was 19, and it has everything: sex, drugs and, most importantly, disco. It really is a tremendous read.
Susannah Fullerton
Walter, I did not know you were an Andy Warhol fan! We must discuss next time we meet up! I will definitely look out for ‘Holy Terror’. I have to admit to some ignorance about Warhol, so want to hear from you why you love his art so much.
Hilary Sadler
Have you read ” The Art of Rivalry ” by Senastian Smee. Getting great reviews
Susannah Fullerton
No, I haven’t – another one to add to my list. Thanks for the suggestion. Happy New Year.