Camille Claudel

Camille Claudel was a daring and visionary sculptor of the late nineteenth century, known for her brilliance and her tumultuous life. This publication accompanies the first comprehensive survey of her oeuvre in nearly forty years, featuring essays, a biography, commentary, and documents written by Claudel and her contemporaries.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 07 November 2023
Publisher: Getty Trust Publications

Camille Claudel, a remarkable sculptor of the late 19th century, stands out as one of the most daring and visionary artists of her era. Despite the immense attention paid to her tumultuous life, including her romantic relationship with her mentor Auguste Rodin, the premature termination of her career, and her thirty-year institutionalization in an asylum, her artistic achievements have received limited recognition outside of France. However, her art deserves to be celebrated for its brilliance, especially during a time when female sculptors were scarce.

In 1895, critic Octave Mirbeau aptly described Claudel as "a revolt of nature: a woman of genius." Her exceptional talent was widely acknowledged during a period when female sculptors were rare. This publication, accompanied by over two hundred captivating photographs and insightful contributions from esteemed experts, serves as the first comprehensive survey of Claudel's oeuvre in nearly forty years.

The book delves into various aspects of Claudel's life, work, and reception, offering essays that explore her artistic journey in depth. A comprehensive biography provides a deeper understanding of her personal experiences and contributions to the art world. American sculptor Kiki Smith contributes commentary, offering her unique perspective on Claudel's work. Additionally, an appendix of documents written by Claudel and her contemporaries adds further depth to our understanding of her legacy.

Through this volume, Claudel's work is reevaluated on its own merits, shedding light on her artistic accomplishments and repositioning her legacy within a more complex genealogy of modernism. It is a testament to her enduring influence and a valuable resource for art enthusiasts and scholars alike.

Dimension: 273 x 241 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781606068700