LustList >> For the library >> "Lists"

I am dying to get a look at manuscript archivist Liza Kirwin's new book Lists.  The book collects various lists of famous artists, from to-dos to address books, with the premise that such lists both augment an artist's personal history and add insight to bits of history that were happening at the time.

(Can't make out much of Kline's tab, but the one at top looks like possibly a Chateauneuf du Pape?)

The book includes ephemera like Picasso's list of his favorite artists at the first Armory show in 1913, most of whom went on to dominate the art scene in the coming years, proving that he not only had personal talent, but also an eye for quality in others' work.  (Also interesting that he left off Braque, his contemporary in the Cubist movement... I am personally gratified by this because I never liked Braque's work haha.)

(Pretty awesome cover, no?? I love the retro illustration and the mix of typography!)

Another "list" is Alexander Calder's address book, which reads like a summary of the "who's-who" of avant-garde Paris in the early 1900s. Other lists are more personal, like Janice Lowry's list of "50 people I need to forgive" and Eero Saarinen's list of reasons he loves his soon-to-be second wife.  

 Little seemingly insignificant lists, in retrospect, can actually take on major significance as snapshots into the making of a decision, the evidence of priorities, etc.  As a compulsive list-maker myself (I literally have lists for everything-- running lists of gifts to give people, equipment I want for the kitchen, etc.), I am totally intrigued by the chance to look at other peoples' lists, espcially hand-written ones!

Available here from Princeton Architectural Press.

Via The Morning News.

PS -- Speaking of lists, if you're looking for something to make, here's what's on my list of things to cook this week: Grapefruit, Celery, and Parmesan Salad, Cilantro-Marinated Grilled Tofu and Soba Noodles, Grilled Guacamole, and Double Chocolate Layer Cake.