Book By Its Cover » Inside the Painter’s Studio

1.22.10

Inside the Painter’s Studio

Joe Fig

When I first flipped through this book, I noticed something was odd about the some of the photos of the studios. I couldn’t put my finger on what it was- maybe the lighting? Turns out half the photos of the studios are actually photos of miniatures of the studios crafted by artist Joe Fig. It blows my mind how incredibly crafted these little dioramas are! Every tiny paint tube, paint splatter, dirty palette, and rag is recreated at a tiny scale- even some of the artists at work. Joe visited these painters, Fred Tomaselli, Amy Sillman, Chuck Close, Ryan McGinness, to see their studios firsthand for reference. He also interviewed each of the artists about their work and their studio. He asked them questions like “When you are contemplating your work do you sit or stand? ” or “How far along are you on this painting”. I love reading the personal honest answers from the artists. These interviews, pictures of his dioramas, and photos of the real space are all collected in this interesting book which you get right here

5 Comments

01/25/10 10:12am

wix wrote

That’s nuts. I wonder if tilt-shift (or a tilt-shift filter) could have produced a similar effect? Or do you have to be further away for it to work? Great find–and I’m in awe of Joe Fig’s powers of concentration and restraint from sneezing :)

01/25/10 2:07pm

Rare Autumn wrote

wow, that’s pretty fantastic! I always find so much inspiration in artist studios, and this extra layer that joe fig’s put onto it by his own work is just smashing – not to say extraordinary work in itself. great posting julia!

01/30/10 2:20pm

Rinna wrote

It looks great..but why would you go to all that trouble to miniaturise it? What does it mean/ add etc?

02/1/10 1:42pm

Joe Fig wrote

Thanks so much for the kind words and for your support of the book. When I began to make sculptures 10 years ago I never would have imagined that it’s by products (the reference photographs and interviews) would lead to a book. So you never know where one thing will lead you. It’s great to hear that you find the book and my work of value. Much appreciated!

02/12/10 10:58pm

jaybee wrote

I just got this book and love it. Showed it to several artist friends and they were interested too. Expect many sales this weekend!

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