Since Cézanne   By: Clive Bell (1881-1964)

Since Cézanne by Clive Bell is a thought-provoking exploration of the art and philosophy of Paul Cézanne. In this insightful book, Bell brings together his admiration for Cézanne as an artist and delves into the unique aspects of his work that forever changed the course of modern art.

Bell skillfully traces the evolution of Cézanne's artistic style, from his early works influenced by the Impressionists to his later groundbreaking paintings that laid the foundation for Cubism and abstract art. He examines how Cézanne revolutionized traditional notions of representation and perspective, presenting a new vision of reality that was both abstract and deeply rooted in the physical world.

One of the strengths of Since Cézanne lies in Bell's ability to connect Cézanne's artistic ideas with the broader philosophical and cultural context of his time. Through his analysis of Cézanne's paintings, Bell explores the artist's preoccupation with stability and permanence, and how his search for the underlying structure in nature led to his unique approach to composition.

Another captivating aspect of this book is the way Bell highlights the impact of Cézanne's work on future generations of artists. He discusses the profound influence Cézanne had on the art movements that followed, such as Fauvism, Expressionism, and even the Abstract Expressionism of the mid-20th century. Bell convincingly argues that Cézanne's innovative approach to form, color, and perspective laid the groundwork for the artistic experiments that defined the 20th century.

However, at times, Since Cézanne can feel a bit dense and scholarly, making it more suitable for readers already familiar with art history or those willing to invest time in understanding the intricacies of Cézanne's work. The book requires a certain level of patience and engagement to fully appreciate its depth and analytical approach.

Overall, Since Cézanne by Clive Bell is an enlightening exploration of Paul Cézanne's artistic legacy. Bell's expertise and passion for the subject shine through, making this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the profound contributions of one of the most influential artists of the 19th and 20th centuries.

First Page:

With anyone who concludes that this preliminary essay is merely to justify the rather appetizing title of my book I shall be at no pains to quarrel. If privately I think it does more, publicly I shall not avow it. Historically and critically, I admit, the thing is as slight as a sketch contained in five and thirty pages must be, and certainly it adds nothing to what I have said, in the essays to which it stands preface, on æsthetic theory... Continue reading book >>