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The Self-Portrait

Series: Art Essentials
3.93 goodreads logo

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( 29 ratings, 2 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Self-Portrait by Natalie Rudd explores the evolution and significance of self-portraiture throughout art history. It delves into how artists have used this medium to express identity, reveal personal insight, and challenge societal norms. The book features a rich array of artist examples, drawing connections between their works and the broader cultural context.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

If you have a passion for exploring the intersection of art and identity, this book may appeal to you. It delves into the fascinating world of self-portraits, offering insights into how artists have used this form to express their inner selves and navigate the complexities of who they are. Perfect for art enthusiasts and those intrigued by personal expression in visual culture.

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A lively introduction to self-portraiture, reflecting on the work of over sixty artists from the Renaissance to the present day.

A lively introduction to self-portraiture, reflecting on the work of over sixty artists from the Renaissance to the present day

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Self-portraiture shows no sign of losing its ability to capture the public imagination. Given our current proclivity to snap and share 'selfies' in seconds, it is unsurprising to find a renewed interest in the genre among general audiences and students. Self-portraits have the power to illuminate a range of universal concerns, from identity, purpose and authenticity, to frailty, futility and mortality.

In this volume, curator Natalie Rudd expertly casts fresh light on the self-portrait and its international appeal, exploring the historical contexts within which self-portraits have proliferated and considering the meanings they hold today. With commentaries on works by artists ranging from Jan van Eyck and Artemisia Gentileschi to Francisco Goya, Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, and Jenny Saville, the book explores the emotive and expressive potential of self-portraiture, and its capacities to distance or to demystify. Can self-portraits offer windows into the artistic process? Is there ever a singular identity to be captured? Is it necessary for a self-portrait to depict the human form?

In her vibrant and timely discussion, Rudd dissects these and other important questions, revealing the shifting faces of individuality and selfhood in an age where we are interrogating notions of personal identity more than ever before.

The Self-Portrait includes 97 illustrations in colour.

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Self-Portrait by Natalie Rudd is praised for being an informative and insightful exploration of the history of self-portraits. The book takes readers on a captivating journey from the Renaissance era to modern-day artistic expressions, making it both educational and engaging.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780500295816

Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 13 May 2021

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Thames & Hudson Ltd

Illustration: 97 Illustrations, color

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 138.0mm

Height: 216.0mm

Weight: 420g

Pages: 176

About the Author

Natalie Rudd is Senior Curator of the UK's Arts Council Collection. She has published monographs on the artists Peter Blake, Tess Jaray and Paul de Monchaux, among others.

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