Francis Bacon: Painting in a Godless World Hardcover – 28 Feb. 2012

This was a terrific read and was a refreshing change from all the stuff written on Francis Bacon that is really samey. It is a balanced and interesting study of the religious subjects in Bacon's art, and has separate chapters on the Crucifixions and the Popes, which I found helpful when going back to Bacon's art.I've read a fair amount on Bacon, seen his work in Europe and further afield and was struck by the number of subjects that are so religious. This book helped make me sense of what was going on in the great artist's work.Also unlike many art history-type books it isn't written in a dry and boring way but is lively and engaging. Having just finished a degree in art history this was a splendid read and I would recommend it not only to specialists but also to people who like modern art.

Thoroughly researched whilst offering a unique perspective which illuminates the work of Bacon. It is superbly illustrated with reproductions of Bacons paintings as well as the works of other artists and imagery which reference much of his oeuvre. The book works both as an introductory text to Bacon or for anyone who wishes for a more comprehensive study of Bacon's confrontational style.

In her book , the author presents a detailed analysis on Francis Bacon's artwork. The book is well researched and despite being highly detailed book , It's a page turner.

This book explores Francis Bacon's use of religious symbols and was an eye-opener for me. It can be used to think more generally about other artists' use of religious symbols and for that reason has a wide audience. It is not just of interest for people who are into Bacon's art but also people who are interested in why artists use religious symbols, especially those artists who profess not to having a faith, or even being anti-faith. Some of the ideas raised in this book can be used to talk about Anthony Gormley's work, or Damien Hirst's. It also raises an important question about the relationship between art and religion in the current age.It addresses different audiences and would appeal to art historians, artists and also religious scholars. It is also the sort of book that general readers of art would like. In fact, it is one of the best books I've read for a long time, and one that I would read again.

Let me start with an admission. Approaching this book I had a limited understanding of Bacon and have found his work challenging to appreciate.In this excellent book the author, through a clear deconstruction of Bacon's concerns, including The Crucifixion, and The Sacred and the Profane, enables the reader to develop an understanding and possibly an appreciation of the artist.As the author develops her argument throughout the book, which helpfully draws upon a wide range of other artists work including Picasso, Rembrandt and Sutherland, each chapter is clearly laid out with high quality reproductions of artworks appearing directly next to the relevant text. A big help when one is trying 'get one's head around' the more challenging aspects of Bacon's work.If you're a Bacon fan, or more importantly, as in my case you're not, I'd highly recommend this book. It offers a chance to enter Bacon's world and leave with a new understanding of how an artist, by tackling the most challenging of subjects, can shed new light on our own existence.

This is an excellent exploration of Bacon and his work, written by one of the leading scholars in the field. Written in clear and sophisticated prose, the book makes for an engaging read. Highly recommended!