Am I Pretty When I Fly?: An Album of Upside Down Drawings

Joan Baez, a singer, and activist, has released a collection of drawings that showcase her artistic talent and her love for social justice. The drawings, which include themes such as politics, relationships, women, animals, and family, are organized thematically and include introductory pieces by the artist. Baez approaches her line drawings as exercises in freedom, often using her non-dominant hand and without any preconceived notion of where the lines might lead her. The album reveals yet another side of a beloved icon.

Format: Hardback
Length: 120 pages
Publication date: 18 May 2023
Publisher: David R. Godine Publisher Inc

Joan Baez, a legendary singer and activist for social justice, has released a captivating album of drawings that showcase her artistic prowess. Since retiring from active performing, Baez has dedicated herself to painting and drawing, revealing a different side of her talent. This collection of drawings showcases lovingly loose and charming sketches on various themes, including politics, relationships, women, animals, and family. Each section is organized thematically, with an introductory piece by the artist. Baez approaches her line drawings as exercises in freedom, often beginning with upside-down sketches using her non-dominant hand, without any preconceived notion of where the lines might take her.

Baez's musical journey began with her seminal debut album in 1960, and she has since become a musical force of nature with incalculable influence. Her earliest recordings played a significant role in incorporating traditional ballads into the rock vernacular. In 1963, she introduced Bob Dylan to the world, embarking on a tradition of mutual mentoring that continued across her many recordings. As a lifelong advocate for non-violent social change, Baez marched alongside Martin Luther King Jr. on the front lines of the civil rights movement, shone a spotlight on the Free Speech Movement, took to the fields with Cesar Chavez, organized resistance to the Vietnam War, and inspired Vaclav Havel in his fight for a Czech Republic.

Am I Pretty When I Fly? is a delightful addition to Baez's artistic portfolio, offering a glimpse into her creative process and the many facets of her personality. This album showcases her talent for capturing the essence of her subjects with a touch of humor and charm, making it a must-listen for fans of her music and art alike.

Weight: 706g
Dimension: 224 x 287 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781567927542