Gilbert & George: The Paradisical Pictures

The Paradise behind THE PARADISICAL PICTURES; the thirty-five artworks made by Gilbert & George in 2019, is explored in a special edition to celebrate the opening of the Gilbert & George Centre in London. The paintings are fantastical, allegorical, narrative, representational, psychedelic, absurdist, modern yet archaic, surrealist-grotesque, inflected with both tragedy and comedy, filled with pathos, and eloquent of human frailty, age, and exhaustion. The special edition showcases the original artwork and 11 different metallic foils on the cover and a painted red edge.

Format: Hardback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2023
Publisher: Hurtwood Press

In a special edition dedicated to the inauguration of the Gilbert & George Centre in London, writer, novelist, and cultural commentator Michael Bracewell delves into the enigmatic realm of THE PARADISICAL PICTURES, a collection of thirty-five artworks created by Gilbert & George in 2019. Gilbert & George's artistic output defies conventional categorization and rejects any affiliation with specific art historical movements or schools. This is evident in the profound ideology and vision conveyed through their works, as showcased in THE PARADISICAL PICTURES.

The paintings in this collection are a tapestry of fantastical, allegorical, narrative, representational, psychedelic, absurdist, modern yet archaic, surrealist-grotesque, and inflected with both tragedy and comedy. They evoke a profound sense of pathos, touching on the human condition of frailty, age, and exhaustion. These artworks suggest a chapter in an ongoing story that extends beyond them, portraying a dream of paradise and the exploration of an archetype that transcends secular and sacred boundaries.

The special edition of this publication brings the enchanting world of the paintings to life in the form of a hardback book. It showcases the original artwork by Gilbert & George, accompanied by eleven distinct metallic foils on the cover and a painted red edge. This edition not only preserves the essence of the paintings but also adds a luxurious touch with its exquisite design elements.

In conclusion, the special edition of THE PARADISICAL PICTURES serves as a captivating exploration into the artistic vision of Gilbert & George. Through its vivid imagery, profound themes, and luxurious presentation, it invites readers to immerse themselves in the enigmatic paradise depicted in these thirty-five artworks.

Weight: 1050g
Dimension: 304 x 247 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780903696593