The author, who is primarily a poet, meditates on painting and the history of the everyday objects in our lives. Part memoir, part essay, he asserts that still life paintings are more complex than they first seem. Why, after hundreds of years, do we still appreciate their beauty and intimacy? The artist is long gone, as are the items depicted in the painting. What draws us to objects that are old and well-loved by previous owners? Why do we become attached to ordinary things?
VMFA Book Club
Using books about artists or works of art currently on view at VMFA to pique curiosity and open discussions, VMFA Book Club explores specific works of art as well as the setting and period surrounding them. NOTE: Reading the book is helpful but not required. The VMFA Shop stocks a limited supply of each book.