The Long Dream of Waking - New Perspectives on Len Lye

Discover 'The Long Dream of Waking - New Perspectives on Len Lye', an insightful collection of essays that celebrates the genius of New Zealand's modernist innovator, Len Lye. This paperback edition, published by Canterbury University Press, invites readers to explore Lye's profound impact on the world of art through various lenses. Recognized for his avant-garde experimental films and kinetic sculptures, Lye captivated audiences with his unique ability to intertwine movement and light. Lye's multi-faceted artistry also encompassed photography, painting, drawing, and poetry, making him a true renaissance artist. This 224-page book, measuring 170 x 240 mm, features contributions from prominent writers both from New Zealand and abroad, shedding light on the many dimensions of his work. Since the establishment of the Len Lye Foundation and the remarkable Len Lye Centre at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, his recognition has soared, allowing a new generation to appreciate his legacy. Each essay delves into Lye's artistry, offering fresh perspectives that inspire a deeper understanding of his 'long dream of waking'. This collection not only highlights his immense contributions to modern art but also invites readers to engage with his timeless vision. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a student of history, or simply curious about innovative artistic expressions, this book promises to enlighten and inspire. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Len Lye today.

Authors: Paul Brobbel, Wystan Curnow, Roger Horrocks Publisher: Canterbury University Press
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 170 x 240 mm
Pages: 224
Publication Date: 10-10-2017

Recognised internationally as one of the twentieth century's great modernist innovators, New Zealand artist Len Lye is most famous for his avant-garde experimental films and for his astonishing and playful kinetic sculptures. Always fascinated by the interplay of movement and light, this extraordinary artist also expressed himself in photography, drawing, painting and poetry. During his lifetime he was better known in the art capitals of North America and Europe than in the country of his birth, but that has changed since the establishment of the foundation dedicated to his works at New Plymouth’s Govett-Brewster Art Gallery and particularly following the opening, in 2015, of the impressive and much-admired Len Lye Centre. In this timely collection of essays, New Zealand and overseas writers consider Lye’s assured place in modern art from a variety of fascinating and thought-provoking angles. He thought of his creations as emerging from ‘the long dream of waking’. And thanks to this richly illustrated collection of essays, we too can be drawn into his long dream and come to see his remarkable achievements through fresh eyes.