Positives The book receives praise for its engaging content, notably an essay by David Hockney that recounts his personal experience of sitting for Lucian Freud. Readers appreciated the intimate insights into the interactions between the two artists, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses into their sessions, including shared conversations and the studio environment. The accompanying background texts are highlighted as particularly valuable, providing good insights into Freud's artistic process, such as his painting techniques and the significant influence of light in his work. The overall visual appeal and readability of the texts are also noted as positive aspects.
Negatives However, a key point of criticism for the book is its physical size. Reviewers found that due to the smaller format, the reproductions of the paintings within the book lack sufficient detail. This may be a drawback for readers who are looking for an in-depth visual examination of the artworks.
Conclusion In summary, despite the limitation regarding the detail in the reproductions, the book offers a unique and personal perspective on the artistic relationship between David Hockney and Lucian Freud. It is likely to appeal to art enthusiasts, students of art history, and anyone interested in the creative process and personal anecdotes from influential artists. Readers seeking insights into artistic methods and the dynamics between major figures in the art world will find this book particularly rewarding.
