PICASSO: MASTER PRINTMAKER: A Perpetual Metamorphosis

PICASSO: MASTER PRINTMAKER. Since the time of Rembrandt the greatest printmaker is considered to be Picasso. In this case even if this is common knowledge that he is the greatest modern printmaker the reasons remain ambiguous. In the book Picasso: Master Printmaker the author demonstrates why the artist was so involved in this medium. Picasso like no other artists wanted to differentiate his prints from his drawings or from his paintings because it was a source of constant inspiration and challenge. For example a print made by Picasso is often confused by people as a reproduction instead as being regarded as an original art work. Picasso was able to work and rework the same "matrix" known as "states" or "stages" until complete satisfaction was achieved. For a drawing or a painting to be able to be reworked it requires a new sheet of paper or a new canvas instead of reusing the same copper plate, lithographic stone, zinc, or linoleum block. Each step is checked with a printed impression so Picasso could choose to go further or to stop at any given point in the process. In order to attain aesthetic effects he invented new techniques. All of which are described in the book with images and examples. He thought so highly of his technique and of his prints that when a printer wanted add something, he would destroy the whole work. What is also striking is the number of references to other artists, from Ancient Egypt, Giotto, Rembrandt, Degas, mythological stories to personal events. The book explains the famous series of prints such as the Suite Vollard (from the 30's named after the famed art dealer of Cezanne or Van Gogh, Ambroise Vollard). Picasso changed not only the way of looking at art but also changed dramatically certain techniques such as printmaking. The book will be most likely a reference not only in the domain of prints but also for art lovers. AVAILABLE ON PAPER: Picasso Printmaker: A Perpetual Metamorphosis (much less complete on paper)This book is what I have been thirsting for. I am entranced with the stories, knowledge is extraordinary and every little detail so well written. TDSPicasso by a Master Critic: Insightful, knowledgeable, original and authoritative book on the art of Picasso seen from the Artist perspective. DanielPicasso: Master Printmaker, by Emmanuel Benador, 2005,This is an outstanding, landmark reference book to the world of Picasso prints, with excellent discussions of selected master prints and print techniques, as well as interesting historical background regarding Picasso’s printmaking. Kobi LedorThis first class book shows the creative process of Picasso in a way no one else did so far. The incredible knowledge paired with a real writing talent of the author marked for a book that gives the reader an unparallel understanding of Picasso art. Soeren