The author of Diego Rivera As Epic Modernist, Craven (art history, Univ. of New Mexico) here discusses the art and politics of the three great revolutions in Latin America in the last century: Mexico (1910-40), Cuba (1959-89), and Nicaragua (1979-90). He addresses the logic of each movement's artworks and demonstrates how the consequences of each revolution transcended national borders. Based on extensive research and interviews with numerous intellectuals and leaders from each country, this volume contributes to our understanding of revolution in historical, human, and aesthetic terms. Craven shows how many artists utilized complex symbolism while trying to redefine art in less Eurocentric terms. Works discussed here include paintings, posters, murals, pottery, and sculpture from well-known and lesser-known artists. Appendixes contain interviews with artists and political figures. This wonderfully intricate book on a seldom discussed topic is of undeniable pertinence to the future of the Americas. Recommended for larger public and academic libraries, specialized collections on Latin America, and collections dealing with the politics of social change. Sylvia Andrews, Indiana State Lib., Indianapolis

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Review

"Craven's is an ambitious book, weaving political, economic, and a broad swathe of cultural phenomena into the analysis of works of visual art that go continuously and very sharply in and out of focus. It is erudite, with cultural and art-historical references broadly ranging across time and space, and it is thoroughly documented with citations." Art Journal"