Calvin TomkinsDuchamp: A Biography

Duchamp A Biography is an updated edition of the book which first came out in 1998. For both new and old fans this is an engaging biography that brings to life one of the most fascinating artists of the twentieth century. This is primarily a text book but there are illustrations and photographs throughout. For this new edition some of Duchamp's artworks are reproduced in color where previously they had been in black and white. Also newly added and updated for this 2014 edition is material about Duchamp's love affair with Maria Martins which set into motion his ladt major work, Etant donnes. And there is also more in-depth information about that final work which had come to light since the biography was first published. The production values of the book are fair. The paper and reproductions are crips and clean, but the paperback binding is a bit flimsy. However, for the content, this book gets five stars and highly recommended for those interested in Duchamp and twentieth century art.

Fascinating, bold, and insightful. A vivid biography of Duchamp. Thanks

We saw him speak at the New Orleans museum of art with his wife truly an evening to remember. I received this book as a gift it is without a doubt a insightful biography Tomkins explains that he is not a art critic because he actually likes the artists !

This simply has to be the most comprehensive study of the amazing life and work of Monsieur Marcel Duchamp!! I just loved it. I have read almost everything ever published out there and this one is simply the best! Written in "plain English" and in easy digestible chapters. Simply brilliant. Highly recommend.

a fabulous book, well written and documented. reads like a novel. a must on Duchamp and modern and contemporary art.

Best, and most detailed biography yet. Excellent.

Par excellent....... a good read... become an artist and rebel.