The Muralist
The Muralist by B. A. Shapiro, published by Algonquin Books in January 2015, is a historical fiction novel that intertwines the lives of both historical and fictional characters. Set against the backdrop of New York City in 1940, the story follows Alizée Benoit, a young American painter working for the Works Progress Administration, who mysteriously disappears. The narrative also features her great-niece, Danielle Abrams, who discovers enigmatic paintings hidden behind works by renowned Abstract Expressionist artists, raising questions about Alizée’s fate and the impact of prewar politics on the art world.
Readers will find a rich exploration of the divisiveness of the era, alongside the struggles of European refugees seeking refuge in the United States. The Muralist delves into the inner workings of New York’s art scene and the emergence of Abstract Expressionism, while also addressing themes of artistic talent and historical forces. With 337 pages, this first edition presents a compelling narrative that invites reflection on the power of art amidst societal challenges.
Official synopsis Publisher
When Aliz�e Benoit, a young American painter working for the Works Progress Administration (WPA), vanishes in New York City in 1940, no one knows what happened to her. Not her Jewish family living in German-occupied France. Not her arts patron and political compatriot, Eleanor Roosevelt. Not her close-knit group of friends and fellow WPA painters, including Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock, and Lee Krasner. And, some seventy years later, not her great-niece, Danielle Abrams, who, while working at Christie’s auction house, uncovers enigmatic paintings hidden behind works by those now famous Abstract Expressionist artists. Do they hold answers to the questions surrounding her missing aunt?
Entwining the lives of both historical and fictional characters, and moving between the past and the present, The Muralist plunges readers into the divisiveness of prewar politics and the largely forgotten plight of European refugees refused entrance to the United States. It captures both the inner workings of New York’s art scene and the beginnings of the vibrant and quintessentially American school of Abstract Expressionism.
As she did in her bestselling novel The Art Forger, B. A. Shapiro tells a gripping story while exploring provocative themes. In Aliz�e and Danielle she has created two unforgettable women, artists both, who compel us to ask: What happens when luminous talent collides with unstoppable historical forces? Does great art have the power to change the world?
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “The Muralist” about?
Who is the author of “The Muralist”?
When was “The Muralist” published?
What is the ISBN for “The Muralist”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
