The Universe of Peter Max

"The Universe of Peter Max" sets out to do exactly what it clearly intends to. It showcases a sizable cross-section of Peter Max' graphic work from the early 1960s to around 2010 in an attractive hardback format, and it includes a straightforward series of autobiographical essays from the artist himself. Just like Max's artwork, the book is colorful , cartoony, and goodnaturedly flaky. And, just like most of Max' work from around 1975 onwards, it is aimed squarely at the devotee and will do little to win over new converts. You might not see your favorite Max artwork reproduced here but have no fear, as Max recycled motifs so often that you're bound to find something similar.The artwork reproduced is almost equally divided between Max's highly commercial Cosmic 60's style and his later faux-Fauvism. (I prefer the Cosmic stuff invariably). There are also several photos of Max (mainly reproduced in black and white) along with samples of his artwork from before he became a brand name. Much of the artwork is reproduced at the full size of the page. There aren't any Peter Max art books currently in print, so this one will have to serve as a substitute.Truth be told, although Peter Max's name isn't heard very often today, there was a time when Max himself was a minor pop culture personality akin to Andy Warhol, LeRoy Neiman, Jeff Koons, and Dale Chihuly. Like most of those artists, Max thrived outside the world of critics and was genuinely embraced directly by the public. To some degree, the affection that many people felt toward Max is akin to the gentle posthumous cult that recently sprung up around Bob Ross. Max's cosmic 60's style wasn't just part of the counterculture zeitgeist that affected graphic design for several years; it was actively copied and imitated from high school art classes to local advertisements across the USA. There just simply has to be a more interesting story to be told about Max's life and times than what's included here, and maybe someday someone will write that book.

The Universe of Peter Max is a beautifully written book about the artist and what its like to live as an artist, heart and soul. I sat and read the entire book in an hour, as I was mesmerized by his experiences. Highly recommended read for an artist or anyone wanting to remember the 1960s and the hope for world peace.

I purchased this book for a class assignment, My first thought was this book is going to feel like eating glass. I was very much wrong, the book is easy to read, very interesting, and full of artwork to admire. My only regret is not purchasing the hard back version over the ebook so I can leave it out for others to enjoy. If your a Peter Max fan, I recommend adding this to your collection.

Well I have read the Art of Peter Max and now the The Universe of Peter Max. I Love everything about Peter. Now i will admit to the fact that i am quite bias, simply because i have met him several times already. His an inspiration to us all. By understanding the Man behind the art makes you grasp what the art means so much more.Not every one will like the Art work of Peter Max, I get it, but I will recommend that you read this book. As I said I will make you understand the MAN.MUST HAVE!!!!You can not call yourself an art fan if you don't have this.

This book is a wonderful "trip down Memory Lane" - and in addition, the artist's work is as beautiful & colorful as I'd remembered. The book is a real treat!

Peter Max has impacted 20th Century American along with the greats. His recent demise is heartbreaking and the book is a great reminder of his gift to us all in a period of relative innocence. A must read.

The life of Peter Max told with both words and his artistry. A visual canvas of his life as he details his many adventures. An interesting look into the man and his art. We not only get to experience what his life was like, but get to see how that life has inspired his art.

Good book for starting to learn about Peter max. Good for anyone that is wanting to start at the beginning of his life.

Great stories, love the art - iconic. Peter Max helped save the Statue of Liberty. Both he and she are American treasures.

Excellent autobiography

This is a great book

Nice book