Download The Art of Rivalry
Review by Caroline Baum
Australian Pulitzer prize-winning art critic Smee examines four pairs of the most fascinating visual artists of the 19th and 20th century, looking at how professional competition affected their work and tested their friendship. The success of this project lies in Smee’s intention of aiming to restore the intimacy to art history that he finds lacking in the textbooks.
In other words, the personal stuff. Which is what brings these stories of genius to life: turns out that artistic titans are as base in their desires as we are, as insecure, venal, and preoccupied with money, sex and fame. Burdened with legendary reputations, competition gives their friendships an edge which manifests in tensions large and small over everything from their partners, the originality of their work, their techniques and source of inspiration, the patrons who court them, the dealers who represent them, the pictures they swap as mutual peace offerings.
Each essay scratches away at the pigment on the canvas to reveal concealed layers of colour. The result is an enriching, lively and essential read for anyone interested in modern painting.
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