[audiobook] Remix: Changing Conversations in Museums of the Americas by From University of California Press in Arts-Photography

Review

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. One StarBy CustomerToo technical.23 of 23 people found the following review helpful. Frida analysisBy Enrique TorresA fascinating perspective and interpretation of some of Frida Kahlos most famous paintings awaits the reader who has patience. I say patience because the book can be a bit overwhelming with more references than a university thesis. Each page is full of other authors opinions and quotes who author Margaret A. Lindauer does a marvelous job of threading together. She has an agenda in her writing so you will have to follow her arguments. She does a good job of taking a different approach on occacions from such notable Frida biographers as Martha Zamorra and Hayden Herrera; as well some other more obscure contributors. At other times she utilizes their writings to illustrate her points. So what are her points? As Lindauer states; "her investigation has not been directed toward determining "correct" interpretations. Rather I am interested in the consequences of inscribing particular idealogies within distinctinterpretive methodologies; and in consciously selecting theoretical approaches according to the ways in which they revererate with ongoing political negotiations." The reason I quoted such a long passage; actually a sentence and a few words; is because this gives you a flavor for the writing. This style may not be for everyone. Written like a college textbook there are plenty of juxtapostions; binary relationships; patriarchal presciptions; masculinist discourses; dichotomies and paradigmatic feminie qualities to make sure you keep the dictionary close by. These are some of the more common and easier terms used as she really bogs down the discourse with her use of language. I consider myself to have a good vocabulary but found myself seeing words I have never encountered before. Since the rather dense style demands so much attention it is also a book that is best read without distractions. Linduaer reexamines Kahlo and Riveras relationship; Kahlos physical and emotional being and the concept of women being sickly; th surrealist movement as prescibed by men; Kahlos use of Tehuana dress in political terms and eventualy the cult of Fridamania that was so pervasive in the 90s and continues to this day. So is it a good Frida book? Yes and no; no if this where you are beginning your study of Frida Kahlo and yes if you have read most books available and are still "Devouring Frida." All in all it is an interesting examination of Frida but one that will have you scratching your head at times wondering what the heck did she just say. By the same token it is a book that sparks the thought process and lets you know just how esoteric art history can be. Recommended for Fridacoholics only.0 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Excellent (Academic) BookBy KIf you are looking for a straightforward biography on Frida Kahlo; this is not it. This book is incredibly well written and insightful. It is first and foremost an academic text that analyzes popular interpretations of the life and work Frida Kahlo made by other biographers and scholars. Lindauers observations are adept and crucial if you are interested in examining Kahlos work and legacy; and are a great addition to any art history library.