I really enjoyed the museum exhibit and then this catalog. I am a fan of Matisse and a fan of Diebenkorn. It was fascinating seeing their works presented together and learning about how Diebenkorn used Matisse’s art as an inspiration for his own art. Because of that connection and the way the artworks are shown, it’s one of the most brilliant exhibits I’ve ever seen.

The book is excellent. If I hadn’t seen the exhibit though I might have given it only 4 or maybe 4 ½ stars, but this book does a reasonably good job showing the scope of the exhibit. There are excellent and well-presented paintings and drawings in the book and the essays do give more information than what is included as descriptions on the museum walls, but in order for the exhibit to be fully appreciated it really must be seen as intended, in a museum. Standing in all the rooms and being surrounded by the art was key for me in being so emotionally moved.

If you can’t see it the exhibit in person (I think today is its last day at SFMOMA) the book is still worth reading. Because I’m so interested in the topic I really enjoyed the essays, and some of my favorite paintings by both artists are included in the exhibit/catalog so I thoroughly enjoyed it, going back to view certain art pieces multiple times. If I was buying books, it’s probably one I’d want to own.

Highly recommended for all Matisse fans and especially for all Diebenkorn fans. If you love both artists, or are interested in art history, this is a must read/see book. ( )