Pulitzer Prize-winning art critic Jerry Saltz (HOW TO BE AN ARTIST) and narrator Mark Bramhall combine their considerable talents to present this eclectic collection of Saltz's writing from 1999 to 2021. From cave paintings and Renaissance masters to contemporary superstars and the marginalized misunderstood--this is an accessible exploration of the places, events, and personalities that influence the 21st-century art world. Saltz's distinct voice and unhurried pace create an intimate connection with listeners as he shares his critical observations and personal stories. Bramhall enriches the chapters he performs with an equally engaging narrative style that complements the author's tone and delivery. Overall, this is an enlightening and entertaining audio experience. Listeners should be ready to press pause and search for images of artists' works to enhance this inspiring listen.
Pub Date: 2022
Duration: 16 hrs
DD ISBN: 9780593612415
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Jennifer Jill Araya's bright tone and dynamic pacing pair well with Vincent's accessible prose to engage listeners. The audiobook is not quite as dramatic as its title implies, serving instead as an introduction to the art form that highlights occasional industry controversies. However, Vincent does make a strong case for opera as a living genre, arguing that newcomers should join the audience and that aficionados should make room for newer works. Vincent champions operas beyond the European canon, whose famous Italian and German titles Araya pronounces with musicality and accuracy. Araya catches the humor in Vincent's perspective on the supposedly serious opera world. A light, fun, and informative listening experience.
Pub Date: 2026
Duration: 8 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668125038
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Elizabeth Wiley narrates this extensive biography based on new research on the French artist Paul Gauguin (1848-1903) as if it were a wondrous adventure tale. Gauguin began as a Post-Impressionist and Symbolist but is best known for his unique paintings of Tahitian women and his tumultuous friendship with Van Gogh. Discovering art in his early 30s, he freed himself from his career as a stockbroker, his marriage, and his five children and set sail for a new life in French Polynesia. Wiley's expressive voice is full of color and animation befitting Gauguin's bold use of color, native island themes, and uninhibited lifestyle. She brings warmth and delight into the most mundane details, transporting the listener on an odyssey from Europe to the Marquesas Islands and Tahiti with an unforgettable artist.
Pub Date: 2025
Duration: 16 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9798331970147
Publisher: Tantor Media
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Follow
Popular in this Genre
We can’t wait for you to join Kirkus!
It’s free and takes less than 10 seconds!
Already have an account? Log in.
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
Welcome Back!
OR
Sign in with GoogleTrouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.
