Barry Moser -- Reading 0 comments

Saying that Barry Moser is an illustrator is like saying that Bach wrote ditties or that Shakespeare scribbled verse. Yes, the core achievement of Moser’s career is the production of world-class illustrations to some of the greatest literary works ever produced, including the Bible, The Divine Comedy, Moby Dick, even Alice in Wonderland. But Moser’s art is not merely secondary; it enters into a serious and occasionally playful dialogue with the text. It’s not that Moser sets himself up as an equal partner with the authors he illustrates. But he’s pretty darn close to being the ideal reader. His response is both an act of interpretation and an extension of the author’s own vision—and that’s a rare talent indeed.

Barry Moser was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee in 1940. He was educated at Auburn University, the University of Chattanooga, and the University of Massachusetts. The books Moser has illustrated and/or designed forms a list of over 300 titles. Moser's edition of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland won a National Book Award in 1983. His work on the monumental Pennyroyal Caxton Bible was the only one-man exhibit ever to be mounted at the Library of National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C. by a living artist. In addition to being an illustrator, he is also a printer, painter, printmaker, designer, author, essayist, and teacher. He is currently Professor in Residence and Printer to the College at Smith College.

This recording is from the 2008 Glen Workshop.

Visit Barry Moser as Artist of the Month for December 2008.