Publisher's Synopsis
The work of British painter and writer David Jones (1895-1974) is complex and intricate, his themes multifarious. Published to accompany a major centenary exhibition, this beautifully illustrated new book provides an overview of Jones's life and work. In his accompanying essay 'Portrait of a Maker', the artist and writer Merlin James approaches Jones's work with the fresh perceptions of a younger generation. He examines the artist's prints and text-related images, his landscapes and seascapes, still-lifes, portraits and mythological subjects, and in contrast to previous literature on Jones, focuses on close individual analysis of key works, such as The Garden Enclosed (1924), Human Being (1931), Manawydan's Glass Door (1932), Briar Cup (1932) and Trystan ac Essyllt (c.1962). Inviting the reader to experience the paintings visually, James opens up the world of David Jones to new resources of meaning, revealing psychological dimensions which illuminate details of the artist's life and character. In addition, the book includes reminiscences from some of those who knew Jones personally: Nest Cleverdon, Arthur Giardelli and Kathleen Raine. With its combination of personal memories and James's innovative approach to the works, this book sets out to renew critical awareness of David Jones for the new audience his work will find in the twenty-first century.
