Private Eye: The Imagist Impulse in Chicago Art

The Chicago Imagists, a group of artists who exhibited together in the late 1960s, are explored in this electrifying volume. Their brash, brilliant, and often humorous work has gained increased attention in recent years, and this catalog presents their work from the original Imagist exhibition groups as well as independent Chicago artists. Original essays provide a big-picture view of the vibrant Chicago art ecosystem, and an interview with collectors adds to the scholarship.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 208 pages
\n Publication date: 06 July 2021
\n Publisher: Marquand Books Inc
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This captivating volume offers a comprehensive appraisal of the Chicago Imagists, a group of artists who emerged in the late 1960s and whose influence continues to resonate today. Drawing from a rare collection of seldom seen artworks, the book presents the work of 17 artists who were part of the original Imagist exhibition groups, including the Hairy Who, Nonplussed Some, False Image, and Marriage Chicago Style. Additionally, it features the contributions of several independent Chicago artists, adding depth to the exploration of this artistic movement.

The artists and their historic work, characterized by its brashness, brilliance, and often humorous nature, have garnered increased attention over the past decade. Scholars, collectors, and younger artists alike have been captivated by the paintings of Jim Nutt, Christina Ramberg, Roger Brown, Gladys Nilsson, and Karl Wirsum, among others. However, there has been a scarcity of comprehensive books that document their artistic contributions.

To address this gap, Private Eye: The Imagist Impulse in Chicago Art provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of the Chicago art ecosystem. It delves into the relationship between Imagism and abstraction, as well as the historical connections between Imagist art and its offspring. The book features original essays that offer a broad perspective on the vibrant art scene in Chicago, exploring the influences and inspirations that shaped the Imagist movement.

In addition to a reprint of an important and previously unpublished piece by Dennis Adrian, the book includes original essays that provide valuable insights into the artistic landscape of Chicago. These essays explore the historical context, cultural influences, and artistic innovations that shaped the Imagist movement. They also examine the enduring impact of Imagism on contemporary art, highlighting the continued relevance and significance of this artistic style.

Furthermore, the book features an interview with collectors who have played a significant role in preserving and promoting Imagist art. These collectors offer personal anecdotes and perspectives, shedding light on the collecting process, the value of these artworks, and the importance of preserving the legacy of the Chicago Imagists.

Biographical "snapshots" of seven key artists are also included, providing a deeper understanding of their backgrounds, influences, and artistic contributions. These profiles offer a glimpse into the lives and careers of these artists, shedding light on their creative processes and the unique perspectives they brought to their work.

A timeline that plots major works in the collection against important historical events in the art world further enhances the book's value. This timeline contextualizes the artistic development of the Chicago Imagists within a broader historical framework, allowing readers to appreciate the significance of their work within the broader context of art history.

In conclusion, Private Eye: The Imagist Impulse in Chicago Art is a groundbreaking and essential resource for anyone interested in the art of the Chicago Imagists. With its comprehensive range of material, including rare artworks, original essays, interviews, and a timeline, the book offers a deep and insightful exploration of this artistic movement. It contributes significantly to the topics of scholarship and provides a valuable resource for artists, collectors, and enthusiasts alike.

\n Weight: 1383g\n
Dimension: 287 x 241 x 36 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781646570140\n \n