San Francisco Review of Books: Book Review: 'Talking Beauty: A Conversation Between Joseph Raffael and David Pagel About Art, Love, Death, and Creativity' by Joseph Raffael

Introduction

Hosts of Heaven / Angel Fine Art Piece / Jesus Christ Christian ...

For those who have stood before the paintings of Joseph Raffael, one of the most important artists of today and the last century, holding this book whose cover is a reproduction of one of his aqueous wonders of water lilies will create an immediate sense of love. This superb book is as unique as the two artists about whom the contents share philosophy and both great concepts and simple moments. It is timeless and very contemporary as it is the saved version of a year of email communication between visual artist Joseph Raffael and literary artist David Pagel.

The Artists

Fabrik - Issue 40 by Fabrik Media - Issuu

While Joseph’s name is well known from his extensive museum exhibitions of his paintings of nature, David Pagel is equally well known for his brilliant art criticism and art catalogue essays that have appeared around the globe as much as Joseph’s extraordinary paintings. The book is generously created with images of Joseph’s paintings as well as images of the nature he enhances and photographs of David’s and Joseph’s families. The visuals are lush and tender.

The Joy of Reading

Furniture can be a ripely ambiguous artform of its own | Aeon Essays

But the joy of this book is slowly reading the interchange of ideas from the exchanged emails between these two men – comments on life, death, art and artists, writing, creativity, children, pets – all blended into a wondrous tapestry of the essence of being truly alive. It is easy to praise the book – almost as facile as praising the art of Joseph and the words of David. TALKING BEAUTY is just that – an intimate silent bystander allowed into the gifted minds of these two giants. Highly Recommended.

Conclusion

Overall, 'Talking Beauty: A Conversation Between Joseph Raffael and David Pagel About Art, Love, Death, and Creativity' by Joseph Raffael is a unique and timeless book that offers readers a glimpse into the minds of two talented artists. The exchange of ideas and thoughts in their emails creates a wondrous tapestry of life, art, and creativity. Accompanied by stunning visuals of Joseph's paintings and personal photographs, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in art and the creative process.

Subscribe to San Francisco Review of Books

If you enjoyed this review and would like to receive more articles, reviews, and updates from the San Francisco Review of Books, you can subscribe to our free daily email notice. Simply scroll up this page to the sign-up field on your right and enter your email address.