Author(s): Siri Hustvedt

Photography

Siri Hustvedt is a best selling author whose books have been reviewed in major US media including the NYT, SF Chronicle, Washington Post etc. Bold assessment of new theories and observations about Goya's most iconic works - "Los Caprichos" and "The Third of May". These original and controversial findings are sure to stir up opinions in the art world. Her 2003 novel "What I Loved" is centred inside the art world and includes reference to many of the works described here. Fans of Hustvedt and her "What I Loved" in particular will be drawn to her thoughts on these works The essays are intelligent and thought provoking, yet quite accessible and anecdotal; there will be a broad non-academic, mainstream appeal. The book is also a good jumping-off point for people who want to learn more about these modern greats without combing through textbooks or dry critical theory "Mysteries of the Rectangle" is a collection of essays on modern painters - Glorgione, Vermeer, Chardin, Goya, Giorgio Morandi, Joan Mitchell, Gerhard Richter, and more. Siri Hustvedt's inspired collection of essays addresses not only the works, but also their relationship to the viewer and to herself specifically.
Two never-before-published essays on Goya form the centrepiece of "Mysteries of the Rectangle". Here, Hustvedt boldly asserts that Goya has insinuated numerous "hidden" self-portraits in much of his late works including the famous paintings "Los Caprichos" and "The Third of May". Hustvedt's mixture of scholarship, criticism and personal anecdote make for a compelling and enlightening read.