Maxfield Parrish - Tapa dura

Maxfield Parrish, Master of Make-Believe describes the life and popularity of this famous early twentieth-century American artist. This beautifully illustrated catalogue includes all types of Parrish's work, from his sumptuous murals to his fun and lively works based on Mother Goose's fairytales. The works included come from collections all over the United States, including museums like the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts where Parrish studied, as well as private collectors who have been persuaded to part with their treasures in order to give the artist the exposure that he deserves. Readers unfamiliar with Parrish's name will find an artist with an extraordinary talent for using colours, as well as an ability to create fantastical worlds, for children and adults. "I am hopelessly commonplace, I don't know what people see in me!," the artist once commented in his standard low-key delivery. What we see is an artist who still believes in beautiful places of gorgeous imagery executed in masterful realism based on imagination, talent and execution for its concept. Maxfield Parrish's art is instantly accessible and real. The book accompanies an exhibition by the same name organised by the Trust for Museum Exhibitions, Washington, DC.

Long-time Parrish aficionado Alma Gilbert has dedicated her life to sharing Maxfield Parrish's works with the world. She currently lives in Maxfield Parrish's estate, The Oaks, and operates a museum of his works and the works of other members of the Cornish Colony in New Hampshire. She has written several books on different aspects of Parrish's career. There is also a chapter written by Dr. Joyce Stoner, who is currently heading up the restoration of the Du Pont murals.