Surrealism was one of the most influential movements of the 20th century and had a profound impact on all forms of culture. It was a philosophy and a way of life for some of the most brilliant artists and writers of the century.
Edited by Ghislaine Wood, Surreal Things: Surrealism and Design is the first book to examine in depth Surrealism’s impact in the wider fields of design and the decorative arts and its sometimes uneasy relationship with the commercial world.
From the sensuality of Dalí’s Mae West Lips Sofa to Schiaparelli’s extraordinary Tear dress, Surrealism produced some of the most emotive objects ever created.
In this ground-breaking book, works in all media from artists and designers such as Jean Cocteau, Pablo Picasso, Man Ray, Alexander Calder, Max Ernst and Joan Miró will be used to explore some of the movement’s dominant themes.
Containing over 350 stunning illustrations, including previously unpublished works in private collections and specially commissioned photographs, the range of objects spans painting, sculpture, bookbindings, jewellery, ceramics, glass, textiles, furniture, fashion, film and photography.
Ghislaine Wood is curator of Surreal Things: Surrealism and Design. She curated the V&A’s blockbuster exhibition, Art Deco 1910-1939 and co-edited the accompanying book (V&A 2003). She was assistant curator of the V&A exhibition Art Nouveau 1890-1914 (V&A 2000). Her publications include Essential Art Deco (V&A 2003) and Art Nouveau and the Erotic (V&A 2000). She is a member of the V&A’s Research Department.
Surreal Things: Surrealism and Design is by V&A Publishing and distributed by Bloomsbury Australia. It is available from all leading book retailers including Bookworld.
Image: Surreal Things: Surrealism and Design