A review of Judith Mackrell's dual biography, "Artists, Siblings, Visionaries," which explores the contrasting lives and artistic careers of siblings Gwen and Augustus John, highlighting Gwen's posthumous triumph as a modernist painter over her more famous but less talented brother.
Artists, Siblings, Visionaries by Judith Mackrell review – the remarkable lives of Gwen and Augustus John
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️A review of Judith Mackrell's dual biography, "Artists, Siblings, Visionaries," which explores the contrasting lives and artistic careers of siblings Gwen and Augustus John, highlighting Gwen's posthumous triumph as a modernist painter over her more famous but less talented brother.
- 1 1876: Gwen John born.
- 2 1878: Augustus John born.
- 3 1890s: Gwen and Augustus study at the Slade.
- 4 Early 20th century: Augustus becomes famous; Gwen lives in solitude, has affair with Rodin.
- 5 1907: Augustus paints portrait of WB Yeats.
- 6 1908-09: Augustus paints Woman Smiling.
- 7 1910: Roger Fry organizes Post-Impressionist show in Britain.
- 8 1930s: Augustus begins relationship with Caitlin Macnamara.
- 9 1939: Gwen John dies in Dieppe.
- 10 Posthumous: Gwen John's talent is recognized.
- 11 June 9, 2025: The Guardian publishes the book review.
- Re-evaluation of Gwen John's artistic legacy
- Deeper understanding of the challenges faced by female artists in the early 20th century
- Insights into the bohemian art world of the time
What: A review of Judith Mackrell's dual biography "Artists, Siblings, Visionaries," which details the lives and careers of artists Gwen and Augustus John, focusing on their contrasting personalities, artistic styles, and the eventual recognition of Gwen's superior talent.
When: The book covers their lives from childhood in the 1870s/1890s (Slade School) through the early 20th century (1910 Post-Impressionist show, 1930s for Caitlin Thomas, Gwen's death in 1939). The review was published on June 9, 2025.
Where: Tenby, Wales (childhood), Slade (art school), London, Paris, Rome, Toulouse, Dieppe (Gwen's death).
Why: To review a biography that sheds light on the complex relationship and artistic legacies of Gwen and Augustus John, challenging traditional views of their success and failure, and exploring themes of gender, freedom, and artistic expression.
How: Judith Mackrell's biography uses historical accounts, personal details, and artistic analysis to compare and contrast the siblings' lives, relationships, and works. The review evaluates Mackrell's approach and insights.