Books |
Anthony Quinn’s Eye
By
Published: Jan 01, 2004
Category:
Art and Photography
If you are of a certain age you remember Anthony Quinn as a protean force, not just as an actor but as a collector and artist. (In much the same way, Yul Brynner is memorable for his photography.) It’s understandable. Born dirt-poor, he took refuge in art. In high school, he won a prize — and a meeting with Frank Lloyd Wright, who told him he was talented but needed to correct a speech problem. Quinn had an operation, and then, as part of his speech therapy, took up acting.
Quinn’s first important role was in Fellini’s "La Strada," in which he played a strongman unable to act on his need for love. For such a man, strength thus leads to failure. Quinn seemed to live the part, but in fact, he was haunted from his earliest years with the question of authenticity. Yes, he played roles that looked real enough — in "Zorba the Greek," he cries out, "Take off your belt and live" — but he always knew that was acting.
Art became his compulsion, and he kept at it. He was not a great artist — you can see his influences in almost every piece — but he was a prolific one, and it is that drive that makes this book special. He was organized. He worked at it. That kept him alive to the very end. It just might encourage a friend or relative who’s getting on to do the same.
To buy "Anthony Quinn’s Eye" from Amazon.com, click here.
