Anselm Kiefer: Phaidon Focus

by Matthew Biro, Anselm Kiefer (Artist)

Anselm Kiefer (b.1945) played a major role in shaping the landscape of post-war German art. His vision encompasses philosophy, history and literature – ranging from intimate books that explore German identity to monumental public sculpture installations. Conceptually, Kiefer urges viewers to challenge narratives of war, identity, religion, morality, memory and history. Visually, his paintings ooze physical tactility, incorporating such organic matter as straw and sand, so his canvases become sculptural and affective.

This volume provides invaluable insight into the life and works of Anselm Kiefer, prolific contemporary German artist renown for his diverse body of work in painting, sculpture and installation

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Art History

144 pages, Hardcover

First published March 27, 2013

Reviews

[Jon Margetts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great artwork from a fascinating artist. Kiefer looks at memory and meaning within (or, at least to begin with) a German context. The wooden and Nazi interiors are compelling for the way they challenge both the past and future. A contemporary of Beuys and Pollock, Kiefer's works are ambiguous and challenging. Along with other Phaidon books, this is an excellent book for exploring an artist's work, although the writing could be a little less esoteric!

[Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great photos of the art work. Definitely a quality art book, especially for the low price.

[Simon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Digestible, thorough, understandable. Liked how it was organized and excellent illustrations.

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 to 4 stars. Read a profile of him (yes, he is still live, lives in France) and decided to find out more about him. Collage work always fascinated me, and later/more recent Kiefer works in collage element. The book by Matthew Biro is a thorough overview, of the highlights of Kiefer's work and career, although the writing can be a little art scholar-dry at times. (The color and b/w images of Kiefer's work are excellent).

[Brandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great photos of the art work. Definitely a quality art book, especially for the low price.