Sims Reed Rare Books×

to be with art is all we ask

Gilbert & George

London. Art For All. (Self-published). 1970
An excellent copy of Gilbert & George's so-called 'Second Booklet' with the original signed letter of presentation.

From the edition limited to 300 numbered copies, numbered in ink to the rear cover and with the 'GG' stamp in red to the final page of text.

The artists' preface reads: 'This booklet illustrates with words and one plate our feelings as sculptors on the subject of Art / When we did it we felt very light and we hope that you read it in the same light'.

This copy also includes, loosely inserted, the typewritten presentation letter from the artists signed in pink ink, printed on their 'Art for All' headed paper (252 x 202 mm) recto only and dated 16th November 1970: 'Dear Axxx Pxxxx[in sepia ink], / We have taken the liberty of sending / to you this, our new booklet entitled 'To be with / Art is all we ask'. / As this work contains certain elements of news and / need we felt a great obligation to present it dir- / ectly to you in this way. / Please accept it in the spirit in which it is in- / tended together with our compliments and best wishes. / Yours Sincerely / Gilbert and George [in pink ink] / London. 1970.'

[Die Sammlung Marzona in der Kunstbibliothek pg.120; Gilbert & George 1968 to 1980, pg. 81].
[4 leaves; pp. 8]. 8vo. (204 x 122 mm). Printed text with single monochrome photographic plate entitled 'Frozen into a gazing for you, Art.' as frontispiece. Original publisher's printed wrappers with titles in black to front cover and justification to rear cover.
#47529

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