Us V Them - Tony de Lautour

Dive into the innovative world of Tony de Lautour with 'Us V Them', a captivating exploration of New Zealand's contemporary art scene. Authored by esteemed writer and curator Peter Vangioni, this paperback book delves into de Lautour's provocative works that challenge artistic norms and engage viewers on multiple levels. From striking installations featuring painted Coca-Cola bottles to bold, graphic canvases, de Lautour's art is a fascinating blend of low-brow and high-art, illuminating the vibrancy of street culture through his unique lens.

Spanning 224 pages and beautifully printed in dimensions of 212 x 270 mm, this publication provides a comprehensive overview of de Lautour's evolution as an artist over 30 years. The book captures the chaotic energy of his early works, inspired by underground aesthetics, and transitions into the structured beauty of his later geometric pieces. Readers will appreciate the insightful interviews, including a thought-provoking conversation between de Lautour and fellow artist Peter Robinson, offering deeper context and understanding of his creative process.

'Us V Them' stands out not just as an art book, but as an essential read for art enthusiasts, students, and collectors interested in contemporary New Zealand artists. Perfect for those who admire the blend of conceptual depth and visual impact, this work profoundly encapsulates the essence of Tony de Lautour's artistic philosophy and his poignant commentary on society. Discover this remarkable visual narrative today and unearth the layers of meaning within de Lautour's art. A tribute to one of Aotearoa’s leading artists, it is a must-have addition to any art library.

Author: Peter Vangioni Publisher: Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 212 x 270 mm
Pages: 224
Publication Date: 21-05-2018

"Standing among Tony's installation of paintings and painted Coca Cola bottles precariously balanced on a shelf held up by a stick, I was a little freaked out. Tony, the art provocateur, had succeeded in provoking me." Welcome to the low-brow, high-art world of Tony de Lautour. Writer and curator Peter Vangioni provides and entertaining introduction to the work of one of Aotearoa New Zealand's leading artists. Described as "a body of work like nothing else this country has seen", de Lautour's paintings and sculptures over the past thirty years are brought together taking the reader on a journey from the chaos of his early paintings inspired by seedy underground street culture to the careful geometric abstracts of his later major canvases. Includes an interview between de Lautour and fellow artist Peter Robinson.