Arshile Gorky: Beyond the Limit

Arshile Gorky produced almost 300 drawings at Crooked Run Farm in Lincoln, Virginia, including a study for his most remarkable painting, The Limit (1947). Conservators discovered another work nested behind it, an expressively painted canvas known as Untitled (Virginia Summer).

Format: Hardback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 23 February 2022
Publisher: Hauser & Wirth

In the summer of 1946, Arshile Gorky (1904-48) found solace at Crooked Run Farm in Lincoln, Virginia, where he embarked on a creative journey that yielded an extraordinary body of work. Among his creations, Gorky produced nearly 300 drawings, including a pivotal study for his renowned painting, "The Limit" (1947). Describing it as a reflection of his loneliness, frustration, and the challenge of capturing the essence of empty space, Gorky sought to convey a sense of profound solitude in his artistic expression. During this same period, Gorky also created a related series known as the "Virginia Summer drawings." However, during a recent treatment of "The Limit," conservators made an astonishing discovery—an expressive painting nestled behind it, known as "Untitled (Virginia Summer)." This newly unveiled artwork offers a captivating glimpse into Gorky's artistic process and expands our understanding of his artistic evolution.

To facilitate a closer examination of both canvases, "Beyond The Limit" includes a series of detailed brushstroke details that bring readers intimately close to each artwork. Additionally, a plate section presents both paintings, select drawings, and relevant reference works, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of Gorky's artistic journey during his time at Crooked Run Farm.

Through the discovery of "Untitled (Virginia Summer)," Gorky's artistic legacy continues to grow, shedding light on his profound creativity and his ability to capture the essence of human experience through his art. This remarkable revelation underscores the enduring value of preserving and studying artistic works, as they offer invaluable insights into the lives and artistic visions of artists like Gorky.

Weight: 784g
Dimension: 268 x 326 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783906915678