Description

Anderson’s long and productive career is documented in this handsome volume of reproductions and analysis of his work to date. A contemporary of Mark Tobey and Morris Graves, the artist chose to remain in the Pacific Northwest, where he stayed isolated, immersing himself in the region’s breathtaking landscapes and the cultures of the Native American population. His works combine a fascination with spiritualism within a brusque, gestural pictorial space. The best of his creations combine these aspects into mammoth ideograms, mystical and rigorously composed. Guenther’s belabored essay discusses Anderson’s early growth as an artist, his WPA years, as well as influences and critical readings of the paintings. Also included is a biography, exhibition record and bibliography.