Surreal Things: Surrealism and Design - Hardcover

Ghislaine Wood Ed.; Alyce Mahon

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1851775005 ISBN 13: 9781851775002

Publisher: V&A Publishing, 2007

Synopsis

Surrealism was one of the most influential movements of the twentieth century and had a profound impact on all forms of culture. It was a philosophy and a way of life for some of the most brilliant artists of the century. This is the first book to examine in depth its impact in the wider fields of design and the decorative arts and its sometimes uneasy relationship with the commercial world. From the sensuality of Dali's Mae West Lips Sofa to Schiaparelli's extraordinary 'Tear' dress, Surrealism produced some of the most emotive objects ever created. In this ground-breaking book, works in all media from artists and designers such as Jean Cocteau, Pablo Picasso, Man Ray, Alexander Calder, Max Ernst and Joan Miro will be used to explore some of Surrealism's dominant themes. Containing over 350 stunning illustrations, including previously unpublished works in private collections and specially commissioned photographs, the range of objects spans painting, sculpture, works on paper, bookbindings, jewellery, ceramics, glass, textiles, furniture, fashion, film and photography.

About this title

Review:

'Large and magnificent hardback ... flicking through its more than 350 pages is a rich and complex pleasure ... If you've got a strangely carved coffee table to put it on, all the better' --Andrew Lambirth, Spectator, 2007

'This book is an essential addition to the bibliography of the subject, a book the sane man did not know he needed until this exhibition spawned it' --Brian Sewell, Evening Standard, 2007

About the Author:

Ghislaine Wood is curator of Surreal Things: Surrealism and Design. She curated the V&A's blockbuster exhibition, Art Deco 1910-1939 , and co-edited the accompanying book (V&A 2003). She was assistant curator of the V&A exhibition Art Nouveau 1890-1914 (V&A 2000). Her publications include Essential Art Deco (V&A 2003) and Art Nouveau and the Erotic (V&A 2000). She is a member of the V&A's Research Department.

About this edition

• Publisher: V&A Publishing
• Publication date: 2007
• ISBN 10: 1851775005
• ISBN 13: 9781851775002
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 362