The Melancholy Art: (Essays in the Arts)
"Enchanting."--Holland Cotter,New York Times"Nostalgic and plaintive, this title's examination of the work of art historians is an enjoyable literary exercise that will foster discussion among art historians and their students."--Library Journal"To consider melancholy in art beyond the limits of despondency, loss, and grief is a refreshing way to induce a different space and energy between the past of the artwork and the viewer's present. In these erudite essays, art historian Michael Ann Holly makes case for works of art--'these beautiful orphans'--that reinvest in melancholia as the signifier and the signified."--Greta Aart,Cerise Press"In support of her argument, Holly marshals a wealth of erudition indicative of formidable trans-historical, interdisciplinary expertise. . . . With the utmost refinement, Holly's own poetic resonance echoes from artful analogy and suggestive imagery."--Giovanna Costantini,Leonardo Reviews"While the driving power of melancholy remains unclear, many readers will be intrigued by this highly personal take on the profession."--Choice"Holly's elegant and thoughtful book focuses on the encounter of the viewer with the work of art."--Kathryn Murphy,Apollo Magazine"Exemplary."--Ivan Gaskell,Brooklyn Rail