Frank Malina - Light Art and Scientific Abstraction

Frank Malina - Light Art and Scientific Abstraction / 252-page hardback,  9.25 x 10.75 inches, published in 2025 by Les Presses du Reel / English edition / ISBN 9782378965587

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The first comprehensive book on the art of Frank Malina, the American rocket scientist turned Paris-based artist, co-founder of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, founder of the visionary art/science revue Leonardo, and one of the fathers of light art. The book traces Malina's singular transition from aerospace engineering to a leading figure in scientific abstraction while navigating the political, security and multimedia creative landscape of the Cold War. It examines how Malina blended his American cultural heritage with the ambitions of the European avant-garde and how he engaged in interdisciplinary and inter-community exchanges. The book situates Malina as one of the forefathers for many contemporary currents and reflections.