Elizabeth Peyton

This is a book which really lets the pictures speak for themselves. The introduction by Matthew Higgs can be read in a matter of minutes, and while interesting it does not give a lot away. Scattered throughout the book there are a few extracts from catalogues and other sources which provide just a little more information, but clearly Ms Peyton wants her pictures to speak for themselves; and this book certainly allows them to do just that.

Illustrated in full colour throughout (with just one or two exceptions) with examples of the artists work on almost every one of its 260 plus pages, with most of the images full-page or thereabouts, it covers work produce from around 1990 to 2005. The book concludes with a short fairy tale by Dave Hickey; a brief Conversation with the Artist; Biography; Bibliography; and a List of Works.

What comes across very strongly is the artist's clear preference for slim young men as subject matter, usually romantic creatures ranging from her own friends to the famous both past and present, the latter usually British music celebrities, but also including a certain young Royal. What is also very apparent is Peyton's remarkable ability to capture with such seeming ease the essence of her subject. With complete economy she is able to portray her mysterious young men convincingly and with a strong allure, one cannot but admire her facility. A splendid book very well worth acquiring. ( )