Surrealism and Magic :From Max Ernst to Leonora Carrington

Discover the enchanting world of Surrealism with 'Surrealism and Magic: From Max Ernst to Leonora Carrington.' This compelling hardback edition dives deep into the intricate relationship between surrealist art and the mystical realm of magic, myth, and the occult. Published by Prestel Publishing, this beautifully illustrated book measures 240 x 300 mm and spans 240 pages of insightful content. Explore how renowned surrealist artists like Salvador Dali, Max Ernst, and Leonora Carrington drew inspiration from esoteric symbols and philosophies to create their enchanting works. Each chapter artfully dissects the profound influence of magic and the unconscious in shaping surrealism, highlighting the artists as visionaries and alchemists in their exploration of reality and dreams. This catalog intricately weaves longer research essays with focused introductions by leading scholars, offering a cohesive understanding of surrealist aesthetics. Ideal for art enthusiasts and scholars alike, this volume not only celebrates individual creativity but also reflects on the collective spirit of the Surrealist movement. Immerse yourself in the imaginative visions and rediscover the magic that fueled some of the 20th century's most significant art movements.

Publisher: Prestel Publishing
Bind: hardback
Dimensions: 240 x 300 mm
Pages: 240
Publication Date: 10-06-2021

Like no other 20th-century movement, Surrealism was keenly inspired by tropes of magic, myth and the occult. In their engagement with the irrational and the unconscious, numerous of its members looked to magic as a poetic and deeply philosophical discourse, related to both arcane knowledge and individual self-empowerment. In their works, they heavily drew on esoteric symbols and cultivated the image of the artist as a magician, visionary, and alchemist. This catalog explores the myriad ways, in which magic and the occult informed the development of the Surrealist movement in international perspective, from the "metaphysical paintings" of Giorgio de Chirico through to works of the post-war period. Lavishly illustrated, it combines longer research essays with focused chapter introductions, all penned by leading scholars in the field. Amongst the many fascinating artists included in the volume are Victor Brauner, Leonora Carrington, Paul Delvaux, Salvador Dali, Max Ernst, Leonor Fini, Rene Magritte, Roberto Matta, Kay Sage, Kurt Seligmann, Dorothea Tanning, Yves Tanguy, and Remedios Varo.