Marguerite Saegesser: American Monotypes

Marguerite Saegesser (1922–2011) was a Swiss artist who achieved fame in the US but her work is yet to be discovered in her native Switzerland. This book features her art with a special focus on the monotype, a printing technique developed in the 17th century, and demonstrates how she found her artistic destiny in America through the influence of painter Sam Francis.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 156 pages
Publication date: 21 March 2023
Publisher: Scheidegger und Spiess AG, Verlag

Marguerite Saegesser, a renowned artist who lived from 1922 to 2011, gained immense recognition in her adopted country, the United States, where her prints and paintings were showcased in numerous group and solo exhibitions across California and New York over a span of two decades. However, in her native Switzerland, her artistic journey and diverse oeuvre remain relatively unknown. This book aims to bridge this gap by presenting a comprehensive exploration of Saegesser's art, with a special emphasis on her mastery of the monotype, a printing technique that originated in the 17th century and yields only a single original piece. It also sheds light on how Saegesser, initially trained in sculpture in Lausanne, found her true artistic calling in America. The pivotal moment in her artistic evolution was her encounter with San Francisco's vibrant art scene in the late 1970s, particularly her friendship with the renowned painter Sam Francis. Francis, a prominent representative of action painting and abstract expressionism, played a significant role in shaping Saegesser's artistic direction. His fascination with the monotype quickly resonated with Saegesser, who swiftly embraced the technique and made substantial contributions to its revival.

Marguerite Saegesser's artistic journey is a testament to the transformative power of artistic exploration and the enduring influence of friendship. Her unwavering dedication to her craft and her willingness to embrace new artistic techniques have not only enriched her own artistic legacy but also contributed to the broader appreciation of printmaking and monotype. This book serves as a valuable resource for art enthusiasts, scholars, and anyone seeking to delve deeper into the world of Marguerite Saegesser and her remarkable artistic contributions.

Weight: 455g
Dimension: 270 x 200 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783039421336