Edward Ruscha: Books and Prints (17 January-11 February 1972)

(RUSCHA, Edward)

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[20] pp. 8vo, printed wrappers, staple-bound. Santa Cruz: University of California at Santa Cruz, 1972. A scarce and early exhibition catalogue focused on Ruscha s artist s books and editions. The artist had a series of university exhibitions in the early 70s at Colgate University, Hamilton College, Northern Kentucky State University; University of North Dakota, etc. His painting practice had long since taken off and exhibitions devoted to his books and prints became less common. The earliest presentations of his exalted books were in Germany and England, at Galerie Heiner Friedrich, Munich (17 March-4 April 1970) and Nigel Greenwood Inc. Ltd., London (7-30 January 1971), catalogues were published for both exhibitions (not noted by Engberg and Phillpot). This catalogue has insightful essays by Nan R. Piene and Marcia R. McGrath, we quote the former: "All of Ruscha s books are included in the exhibition and except for Stains (No. 15) are owned by College V. Mocking both the high art tradition of deluxe, limited edition books and quality photography, which Ruscha believes to be dead as a fine art, they collate bits of the American West with such depressing, unadorned accuracy that the cultural values behind the objects presented seem more vividly obvious than if overtly commented upon by a more expressionist artist." There are also lists of Ruscha s solo and group exhibitions and his books and prints ("The majority of the books and some of the prints in this exhibition are for sale"). A near fine copy; small scrape to upper wrapper and wrappers a trifle sunned. Ink ownership inscription to inside of upper wrapper. ? S. Engberg & C. Phillpot, Edward Ruscha: Editions, 1959-1999: Catalogue Raisonné (1999), Vol. II, p. 140. Seller Inventory # 10483

Bibliographic Details

Title: Edward Ruscha: Books and Prints (17 January-...
Binding: Soft cover