This book examines the art and writings of Wassily Kandinsky; who is widely regarded as one of the first artists to produce non-representational paintings. Crucial to an understanding of Kandinskys intentions is On the Spiritual in Art; the celebrated essay he published in 1911. Where most scholars have taken its repeated references to "spirit" as signaling quasi-religious or mystical concerns; Florman argues instead that Kandinskys primary frame of reference was G.W.F. Hegels Aesthetics; in which art had similarly been presented as a vehicle for the developing self-consciousness of spirit (or Geist; in German). In addition to close readings of Kandinskys writings; the book also includes a discussion of a 1936 essay on the artists paintings written by his own nephew; philosopher Alexandre Kojegrave;ve; the foremost Hegel scholar in France at that time. It also provides detailed analyses of individual paintings by Kandinsky; demonstrating how the development of his oeuvre challenges Hegels views on modern art; yet operates in much the same manner as does Hegels philosophical system. Through the work of a single; crucial artist; Florman presents a radical new account of why painting turned to abstraction in the early years of the twentieth century.
#2437283 in eBooks 2014-04-08 2014-04-08File Name: B00KO09J44
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Love this compilationBy Susan HemmLove this compilation. The writing and photos are very moving. I am a native of Tucson and have traveled all thru the area and I find joy and comfort in the history and the memories!1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Giddyup; Partner!By Chris R.As with Dr. Corkills walk-through-time in her Empire Ranch book; she has once again hit-it-out-of-the-park with this treat of; "times past." The photographs; along with their concomitant commentary; remove us from the ever burgeoning events of our current political landscape; and carry us into an era experienced by those not encumbered by the monetary restraints of the majority....the; "well-to-do" mostly; who through their good fortune; share with us the lazy days of a "dude ranch" and its simple yet majestic charm. As a young lad; I dreamt of riding horses in an environment similar to this; and Dr. Corkills rendition of this time in America is a pleasant picture of; "what it must have been like." Well worth the read and a place on your mantel or in your bookcase.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. A delightful stroll through historyBy SilverappyI love this new book by Gail Waechter Corkill! It is a fascinating stroll through the history of this grand old guest ranch. It is evident that Gail put a lot of hard work into sifting through documentation to create this book that can be described as a love letter to the Circle Z Guest Ranch. As a former resident of Patagonia; AZ; I was aware of the historical impact that this ranch had on the area. I had no idea; however; how many loving hands have taken up the reins and managed it through the years. This book contains fascinating documentation and wonderful old photographs that make a for a great escape from todays chaotic world. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is fascinated with the history of beautiful southeastern Arizona. Slow down; sit back; and enjoy.
