Francis Bacon: Man and Beast

Francis Bacon is one of the most important painters of the 20th century. A major exhibition of his paintings at the Royal Academy of Arts in 2020 explores the role of animals in his work, particularly the human animal. Bacon first depicted bullfights in 1969, and a lone bull was to be the subject of his final painting. Expert authors discuss Bacon's approach to animals and identify his varied sources of inspiration, including wildlife photography and the motion studies of Eadweard Muybridge.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2021
Publisher: Royal Academy of Arts

Francis Bacon, a renowned painter of the 20th century, is celebrated for his profound influence on the art world. His upcoming exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts, originally scheduled for 2020 but postponed due to the pandemic, delves into the central theme of animals in his artwork. Bacon, known for his depictions of dogs and horses, ventured into the realm of bullfighting in 1969, creating a series of powerful and unsettling paintings that explore the complex interplay between man and beast.

In these works, the interaction between the two is characterized by danger, cruelty, and a disturbingly intimate connection. Both the man and the bull are contorted in their anguished struggle, and the erotic undercurrents are ever-present. Bacon once likened bullfighting to boxing, describing it as a "marvellous aperitif to sex."

Over two decades later, in 1981, Bacon completed his final painting, which featured a lone bull as its subject. This captivating publication, a valuable addition to the literature on Bacon, delves into his approach to animals and uncovers the diverse sources of inspiration that shaped his artistic vision. Expert authors examine Bacon's fascination with wildlife photography and the motion studies of Eadweard Muybridge, highlighting how these influences informed his portrayal of animals in states of vulnerability, anger, and unease.

By examining animals in these vulnerable states, Bacon was able to shed light on the inherent role of instinctual behavior in the human condition. His artwork prompts viewers to contemplate the complex interplay between instinct, rationality, and the darker aspects of human nature.

The exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts will showcase a selection of Bacon's most iconic works, including "Fragment of a Crucifixion" (1950), "Study for Portrait (with Two Owls)" (1963), and "Man with Dog" (1953). These paintings, characterized by their bold colors, distorted forms, and intense emotional intensity, provide a glimpse into the artist's profound exploration of the animal kingdom.

Through his artwork, Francis Bacon challenged traditional notions of beauty and morality, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. His legacy continues to inspire and provoke artists, reminding us of the power of art to explore the complexities of the human experience and the profound connections between man and nature.

Weight: 1088g
Dimension: 241 x 288 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912520558