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Ratings: ★★★★★ (4.6/5)
Genre: Art History, Artist Monograph, Painting, Modern Art, Biography

Book Review:
Candice Russel's Edvard Munch: Masterpieces of Art is a superb and visually arresting exploration of one of modern art's most profound and psychologically penetrating figures. While Munch is universally known for The Scream, this book brilliantly reveals the depth and breadth of his entire oeuvre, confirming his status as a true master who painted not just what he saw, but what he felt.

The book's thematic structure is inspired. It takes the reader on a journey through Munch's artistic and personal evolution. We begin with his early works, as he navigated between Naturalism and Impressionism, and then delve into the heart of his achievement: the ''Frieze of Life'' series. This section, titled ''Life, Love & Death,'' showcases the iconic paintings that explore the fundamental human experiences of longing, jealousy, despair, and loss. It's here you'll find not just The Scream, but masterpieces like The Dance of Life, Madonna, and The Sick Child, each reproduced with stunning clarity.

The later sections, ''Turn of the Century'' and ''Recovery & Solitude,'' are equally compelling, showing how Munch's style evolved and how he grappled with personal demons and ultimately found a measure of peace. The full-page reproductions are the heart of the book, allowing you to truly appreciate his bold use of colour, his expressive lines, and the raw emotion that pulsates from his canvases.

Russel's accompanying text is insightful and accessible, providing the biographical and historical context needed to understand Munch's work without ever becoming dry or overly academic. She helps the reader connect the art to the man, to his quoted ambition: ''...I try to dissect souls.''

For anyone who wants to look beyond The Scream and discover the full genius of Edvard Munch, this book is a perfect and beautiful guide. It's a treasure for art lovers and a wonderful introduction to a truly singular artist. Highly recommended.