Latin American Artists: From 1785 to Now

“Latin American Artists: From 1785 is an inviting tome that beckons a look through and delivers a one-two punch of sensational imagery.”

If you are interested in Latin American art, this book featuring over 300 artists is for you.

There is controversy regarding the task of putting together a broad collection such as this one.  In the opening statement of Latin American Artists: From 1785 to Now, art historian, educator, curator Raphael Fonseca presents a disclaimer citing that “Any book, exhibition, library, museum, or text that tries to organize visual arts production by geographical focus is a fallacy.”  But he then goes on to laud Phaidon Press’ experience in the field of publications of this comprehensive nature related to the visual arts. It’s a thought-provoking beginning.

Latin American Artists: From 1785 showcases 300 artists “associated” with Latin America. A panel of distinguished advisors associated with the arts, curators, researchers, collectors, educators, philanthropists, and historians was assembled to establish parameters for inclusion and lend authority to the publications proposition.  Two significant criteria were geography,  “those born or who spent a considerable part of their lives in regions that today have Portuguese and Spanish as their official languages,” and chronology, “all artists included here produced their work between the beginning of the nineteenth century and contemporary times.”

The artists featured represent a wildly diverse group in style, medium, age, and working geography. Strap on your seatbelt as your senses indulge in a smorgasbord of artistic virtuosity. Text accompanying each visual provides a brief narrative about the work, the artist’s intention, and influences.

Latin American Artists: From 1785 is an inviting tome that beckons a look through and delivers a one-two punch of sensational imagery.