Positives Reviewers widely praise this book as a stunning and mesmerizing collection of David Lynch's visual art, encompassing paintings, drawings, photography, sculptures, lithographs, and even comics. Many found it a gorgeous, high-quality production with luxurious design and printing, making it an excellent coffee table book. The work itself is described as brave, unclassifiable, powerful, and consistently exploring new artistic avenues, offering a deep dive into Lynch's creative psyche and multidisciplinary approach. It's seen as an invaluable resource that beautifully showcases his boundless imagination and unique artistic evolution across various mediums, even highlighting his unexpected humor. Several knowledgeable essays are included, providing context for the diverse body of work.
Negatives Despite the widespread admiration, some reviewers found the artwork to be dark, disturbing, sinister, and at times, ugly or grotesque, noting that not all "internal images" necessarily need externalization. Specific critiques included the omission of certain significant photographs, such as those from the "Small Stories" series, and some essays were perceived as not offering new insights for existing Lynch enthusiasts or missed opportunities to connect his visual art techniques with his cinematic language. Practical concerns were also raised regarding the layout, particularly the handling of horizontal paintings that sometimes suffered from distortion across two pages or a lack of optimal presentation. For some, while intellectually interesting, the art didn't evoke inspiration or the same emotional connection as his film work, with one reviewer even admitting to falling asleep.
Conclusion Overall, this book stands as a comprehensive and beautifully curated testament to David Lynch's extensive career in the visual arts, confirming his genius beyond filmmaking. It offers a unique and intimate journey into his distinctive artistic universe, characterized by surrealism, expressionism, and a consistent exploration of the uncanny. This collection is highly recommended for devoted fans of David Lynch's films and television work who wish to delve deeper into the origins and breadth of his creative mind. It also appeals to anyone with an interest in contemporary art, experimental visual practices, or those seeking a visually impactful and thought-provoking coffee table book that embodies a truly unique artistic spirit.
