The Universe of Peter Max

I have been a fan of Peter Max’s work for many years. I have been lucky to meet and speak with him twice. This book captures the many talents and art of Max!

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.

the best ~ exactly as described

"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.

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.

We have admired Peter Max's work for years. I ordered a "used-very good" copy of the book. It arrived on time. I would say it was actually "used-like new" once I removed the seller's stickers from the dust jacket and cleaned off the gummy residue. I found a bonus inside: my copy was inscribed and signed by the great man himself! The book is very informative and makes a great addition to our collection.

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!

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.

Full of life and colour

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

This is a great book

Nice book

Excellent autobiography