Contrapposto

My google internet search of the word Contrapposto told me, "Contrapposto was developed by the ancient Greeks and is an Italian word meaning counterpoise. Contrapposto is used in the visual arts to describe a human figure standing with the majority of their weight on one foot. The other leg is relaxed and bent which causes the hips to tilt and the spine to curve. Famous examples of this pose are Michelangelo's "David" or the Venus D'Milo."  Now that you too have been educated on a facet of visual art information, you can learn more about the world of art in Dave Eggers newest novel, Contrapposto, to be published June 9, 2026 by Penguin Random House. 

Trained as a painter, Eggers brings his knowledge of the industry and unique climate of the art world through his characters. Contrapposto follows the lives of two individuals, Cricket (Robert Dib) and Olympia Argyros from the time they met as children through their 70's.  Fraught with life's complexities, Cricket and Olympia pursue art as a driving force in their lives.  Cricket learns young that he has a penchant for drawing, and he pursues this talent throughout his entire lifespan. as he trains as a painter. Olympia is a complex and often times troubled soul who uses her vast knowledge of art, artists, and business to propel herself through the tumultuous and often chaotic art scene, worldwide.  

While Olympia tends to thrive on the drama and rollercoaster ride of her career, often ending in personal addiction manifesting in various forms; Cricket gravitates toward the  quiet, creating his art through his love of line drawing and painting. Cricket is satisfied to work on the fringe of the art scene in order to create his paintings for himself. 

Olympia and Crickets' lives are ever interconnected. They share a love as friends and more but never a sustained life together.  

Eggers did a masterful job of intertwining the lives and personalities of his two characters so that the reader is continually drawn into their joys and struggles.  Eggers also educates the reader on the art world, the artists realm as well as the business side.  I learned so much about a topic I have never delved into, which is a mark of a great writer, to educate while entertaining.

I enjoyed Egger's newest book, Contrapposto. Eggers has another literary success!

Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Random House for the Advanced Reader's Copy of Contrapposto in exchange for an honest review.

#NetGalley. #Contrapposto