Book Club: Retna & El Mac's 'Alianza'
I had the good fortune of meeting El Mac this summer in Barcelona and that fortune continued when his and Retna's new book 'Alianza' (Alliance) arrived at the doorstep. Both Individually and as a duo Retna and El Mac have gained a lot of notoriety and respect over the years and this book serves as a great visual report of just what these two are capable of. Let's crack it open and see what's inside.
In 96 pages 'Alianza' does a great job showing a lot of work from both of these artists individually and collaboratively, with a number of previously unseen works (unseen by me at least) that were amazing. Retna's canvases and embossed metal pieces that worked heavily with texture and material as well as his signature calligraphy style really stood out and are a part of his work that I hadn't seen much of before. El Mac also showed a range of styles with his figures and portraits, with works in spraypaint, oil, acrylic, ink and prints.
The book is simply organized with one third dedicated to Retna's work, one third to El Mac's solo work, and one third with their collabs. Some people might be slightly disappointed by the lack of text discussing more of their backgrounds or their unique processes, but as a visual catalog this book does what it came to do. It's full of gorgeous images and does a beautiful job at showing what they've accomplished and how their work comes together so strongly.
Alianza
96 pages, Hardcover, 6 ¼'' x 8 ½'' (159 x 210 mm)
85 Illustrations, English
It is published by Gingko Press and Upper Playground and is available for $19.95 direct from Upper Playground.
