The Reconciliation of Modernism

""The Reconciliation of Modernism is a superb achievement, which shows in elegant detail why Ceri Richards matters to a nuanced history of visual modernism. Jones's work deftly locates Richards in terms of a European tradition, and astutely theorises and traces how the artist developed over those intense interwar years - moving between his paintings, drawings and haunting relief constructions. The analysis demonstrates the complex history of techniques in Richards's visionary avalanches of intensity, and yet counterpoints this with his laconic and finely graded detail. But the book also - vitally - reflects on how we encounter Richards now, and the compelling nature of his vision, one both rooted in material textures and simultaneously striving for emotional transcendence ... Magnificent."" -- ""Dr. Leo Mellor, Murray Edwards College, University of Cambridge"" ""The Reconciliation of Modernism presents a fascinating and timely reappraisal of the art of Ceri Richards in relation to European modernism between 1930 and 1945. Jones provides a revealing account of the complex interactions with the international avant-gardes that shaped Richards's art during this critical period. Through perceptive close readings of key artworks and writings, he explores the deep engagement with abstraction and surrealism that allowed Richards to shape these influences into his own unique visual style. An essential resource for students, scholars and enthusiasts of modern art, this book offers a brilliant and nuanced study of one of the unsung heroes of modernism.""-- ""Professor Eric Robertson, Royal Holloway, University of London""