Book Description

Peter Greenaway Architecture and Allegory Bridget Elliott and Anthony Purdy A painter by training, Peter Greenaway is undoubtedly one of the most interesting and controversial of contemporary British film-makers. He is also a much sought-after curator of exhibitions and installations internationally. Greenaway's fascination for architecture is well known and this monograph emphasises his use of architecture as a structuring device as well as a metaphor and vehicle for the exploration of artistic practice in general. Looking at all his best known movies - The Draughtsman's Contract, A Zed and Two Noughts, The Belly of an Architect, Drowning by Numbers, The Cook, the Thief, His Wife and Her Lover, Prospero's Books, The Baby of MAcon and The Pillow Book - the study discusses both curatorial work and films in relation to current debates in architecture, art history and cultural theory. Lavishly illustrated with his own art work and numerous stunning film stills, this is a highly visual as well as critical examination of the many issues surrounding Greenaway's idiosyncratic work. Art & Design Monographs are a series of publications concentrating on artists and designers of lasting interest and importance. Fully illustrated in colour, the Monographs contain expertly written commentaries on the careers and works of the individuals represented, providing a richly visual and comprehensive critical study. Other Art & Design Monographs include: Christopher Dresser Allen Jones Arthur Boyd at Bundanon Alessi: The Design Factory Brian Clarke: Architectural Artist Arakawa and Madeline Gins Cecil Beaton: Stage and Film Designs Marina Abramovic: Cleaning the House Archibald Knox David Mach David Nash: Forms into Time Nancy Wolf: Hidden Cities, Hidden Longings