The Artist's Reality: Philosophies of Art Book

Let me start off by saying this book is perhaps one of the most fascinating works I've ever encountered. It's an incredible book, but that said, I don't feel it's comparable to other (regular) books at all. With respect to the entire process of writing, this was never fully developed. Nonetheless, it's lack of polish doesn't hinder it in any way. Written by Mark Rothko back in the 40s, it laid hidden for decades in a manila folder until Christopher Rothko (the late artists son) took the time and care to have it published. That, you see, is what makes it such a wonderful read. It isn't just some prose, carefully laid out by writer, editor and publisher. No, it's much more than that. It's a rare view into the mind of a great artist, if not arguably one of America's best abstract painters.

The book in many ways unfolds Rothko's thinking. One rich in both meaning and insight. Or in other terms, let me equate it to my view of Rothko's abstract paintings: somewhat obscure at first, but with time and patience, one eventually finds incredible meaning, substance and emotion.

What I find especially of interest is Rothko's commentary on the role of art and science. Often people split these two, with presumptions about their different manifestations. Rothko has actually made an interesting case for their unity, and how in fact they have much more in common than we are taught to believe.

I won't go into great detail. However, if you are a struggling artist in any medium, I think you'll find this book a great revelation.

Of course, it's not a page turning thriller. You need to stop every now and then and think -- God forbid people should actually be forced to think while reading-- and yes, it may be somewhat slow as you stop and go, trying to tease meaning from some of Rothko's more elaborate sentences. But be assured, there is profound meaning imbedded here. The more time you invest, the greater your reward.