Francis Bacon

by Weiland Schmied

Francis Bacon is given a piercing re-examination through critical commentary, brilliant reproductions, and private photographs in this beautifully produced flexi edition. The existential anxiety of modern man, the inescapability of death, and the catastrophe of loneliness are some of the themes that we revisited time and again in Francis Bacon's work. In this comprehensive study of one of the twentieth century's most passionately committed artists, Wieland Schmied offers a thoughtful overview of Bacon's life, analyses his paintings, and examines the creative processes they embody. He explores in depth Bacon's subtle use of space, the development of his imagery, idiosyncratic painting technique, and place in the pantheon of twentieth-century artists. The author was a close friend and confidante of the artist. This book includes many private photographs of Bacon in his studio. There is an increasing interest in Francis Bacon - exhibition just ended at The Scottish National Gallery of Art (September 2005).

Genres: Art

184 pages, Paperback

First published September 7, 1996

Reviews

[Pete daPixie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of the same generation, Dylan Thomas put into prose what Francis Bacon laid waste on canvas. Wieland Schmied's 'Commitment and Conflict' is much more than the usual retrospective of the artists work. Published 2006, this book shows the artist in all his debauched and troubled times. Compare the self portraits of Bacon with that of Albrecht Durer's 'self portrait in a fur coat', and we can see Bacon's conflict. There are lots of examples of the artists work here, as well as photographs of his studio and his friends etc. My fav is the study in oils of Valazquez's Portrait of Pope Innocent X, once again with a figure captured in a frame and another screaming mouth.
For those who are attracted, like me, to the Mr.Angry artists of this world, this is a fine collection and insightful critique of the man trapped inside.
Would have been a five star if the print size was more suitable to my eyesight.

[AC · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting book on a fascinating figure. Excellent, many color reproductions - the text by turns intriguing and in turns a slog (what I read of it). The author knew the painter quite well, apparently, and is both sympathetic and detached and critical.

[Haruna · Rating 5 out of 5]

always my favorite.

[Kyle Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book with terrific images