A Journey Into Matisse's South of France

February 15, 2007
This new title in the "ArtPlace" series, which explores how a renowned artist and famous city or region served to define and inspire each other, illuminates the titular relationship through historical text, biography, travel guide, and artistic commentary, which are integrated fluently with photographs, paintings, maps (not detailed for navigation so much as historic information), and assorted memorabilia. This combination of material results in an accessibility and vividness rarely experienced in a book that might otherwise examine the subject monocentrically. It doesn't feel stuffy, dusty, or dry; instead, by mingling text and lucid, satisfying illustrations, it creates an experience for the readeror at least a vacation. That said, though the text is extremely approachable, its specific focus may narrow the audience. While the book can stand alone, it seems best as a supplement in an existing collection on Matisse or France. Not a formal travel guide but more an art tour; recommended to public, academic, and museum libraries with expansive collections on Matisse or France.Ben Malczewski, Ypsilanti Dist. Lib., MI

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