Product Description

This unique series of paintings takes the viewer on a graphic, visionary journey through the physical, metaphysical, and spiritual anatomy of the self. From anatomically correct rendering of the body systems, Grey moves to the spiritual/energetic systems with such images as "Universal Mind Lattice," envisioning the sacred and esoteric symbolism of the body and the forces that define its living field of energy.

Includes essays on the significance of Grey's work by Ken Wilber, the eminent transpersonal psychologist, and by the noted New York art critic, Carlo McCormick.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #52625 in Books
• Published on: 1990-09-01
• Released on: 1990-09-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 96 pages

Review
Mr. Grey's paintings, as detailed and anatomically accurate as medical illustrations, present man as an archetypal being struggling toward cosmic unity...Grey's vision of a flawed but perfectable mankind stands as an antidote to the cynicism and spiritual malaise prevalent in much contemporary art. -- New York Times

Reverence and beauty radiate from every page. -- Jay Kinney, Gnosis, Winter 1999

The majority of Grey's recent work depict spiritual/energetic systems--the sacred and esoteric symbolism of the body. -- Magical Blend, January 1992

Review
"Mr. Grey's paintings, as detailed and anatomically accurate as medical illustrations, present man as an archetypal being struggling toward cosmic unity--Grey's vision of a flawed but perfectable mankind stands as an antidote to the cynicism and spiritual malaise prevalent in much contemporary art."
(New York Times )

"Reverence and beauty radiate from every page."
(Jay Kinney, Gnosis, Winter 1999 )

"These are extraordinary works, exquisitely reproduced. Some people will be illuminated and transformed in the process of viewing. I found them compelling."
(Judi Koteen, Napra Trade Journal, Fall 1990 )

"The majority of Grey's recent work depict spiritual/energetic systems--the sacred and esoteric symbolism of the body and the forces that define its living field of energy."
(Magical Blend, January 1992 )

"The color plates are of exceptional quality depicting both human and spiritual forms in a variety of intriguing and thought-provoking ways."
(The Midwest Book Review )

About the Author
Alex Grey is an artist whose work has appeared in the Stux galleries, New York and Boston; the London Regional Art Gallery, Canada; the University of California Museum of Art, Santa Barbara; the Chicago International Art Exposition; the New Museum, New York; the Grand Palais, Paris; the Sao Paulo Biennial, Brazil; and numerous other exhibitions.

Customer Reviews

Wow
This book is easy to get lost in. The art has alot of stuff in it to absorb.

Excellent Artwork!!
This book is filled with incredible art by Alex Grey. The only problem with the book is the fact that it is listed on Amazon as a HARDBACK and it is not. This is no fault of the artist but Amazon should be sure to correctly list their products.

Spectacular art and a tool for transformation.....
Alex Grey's art is unique, provocative, visionary and striking. The anatomical detail, overall composition and beauty is uplifting. While this type of art may not be everyone's cup of tea, it is undeniably creative and powerful.

This book is based on a series of paintings that are approximately 6'0" tall. They were meant to be used as a mirror for an individual to experience different aspects of themselves. In other words, to serve as a lens for a different perspective on what it is to be human. In general, the book proceeds from an outline of the body made up of elements, through the skelton system, blood vessels, nerves, etc. What is unique is that it goes beyond this to subtle and causal realms based on the experience of Alex Gray and the testimony of various mystics. It is meant to evoke awareness of these more subtle dimensions and even in book form could be used for meditations.

This book also contains images of Jesus, the Boddhisattva of infinite compassion and other enlightened beings. Again, these are meant for contemplative experiences where you look for these energies in yourself as part of a contemplative practice. There are also some beautiful images of a couple kissing, making love, a small family, etc. These latter category of images are similar to the cover in that they represent the various spheres of Being from the gross body through the spirit.

This book is on the large side, is printed on very high quality paper and contains a lot of color plates as well as contextual information. It is a bargain at the price it is being sold and some of the text is written by Ken Wilber.

If you are not familiar with Ken Wilber's work, either Kosmic Consciousness or A Brief History of Everything would be a great place to get started. Either of these resources will help you to appreciate Grey's art in more depth and understand what he is trying to achieve.