R. B. Kitaj

R. B. Kitaj: From Fragments 1958–1975 explores the unexpected ways that the artist combined source imagery in the early years of his career. With images taken from films, old books and many other places, Kitaj made new images charged with personal and historical significance. Where many of his contemporaries were inspired by commercial mass-produced imagery and branding, Kitaj alone used imagery found in iconographical studies of the medieval and early modern periods. The fruit of his endeavours was exhibited to widespread acclaim in his first solo exhibition in February 1963, and Kitaj’s reputation as one of the most gifted painters of his generation was established.

The publication explores the artist’s early use of found imagery and collage. It includes an essay by Piano Nobile’s research director Luke Farey, which introduces new information about Kitaj’s sources and working methods from this formative period of his career. Another text, ‘Ten Questions’, reproduces a revealing, little-known exchange between Kitaj and Maurice Tuchman first published in 1965. The catalogue section includes over twenty works fully illustrated in colour.

The publication is available for pre-order now, purchasers will be contacted with an estimated delivery date.