Description
Book SynopsisThis inviting book explores how small-town Marfa, Texas, has become a landmark arts destination and tourist attraction, despiteand because ofits remote location in the immense Chihuahuan desert.
Trade ReviewThe most memorable parts of Ms. Shafer’s book are her beautiful evocations of Marfa’s high desert landscape, its delicate colors, the big sky and dry air; and of Judd’s art. * Wall Street Journal *
The town that emerges in [Shafer's] book is one beset by social, historical, and even moral contradictions. * D Magazine *
I'll re-read
Marfa. . . before I return to Marfa for the third time. My copy of Shafer's book will go with me when I do. When you make your next trip to Marfa, you'll want to take your own copy. You'll be glad you did. * Concho River Review *
Shafer walks a fine line in her discussion of Marfa. On the one hand, she emphasizes the uniqueness and appeal of this small West Texas town that has become an art center, a destination for travelers from around the United States and Beyond. On the other, she notes that much of Marfa's appeal results from an imagined place, one that is probably more illusion than real—real, yes, in passing moments that appear and disappear like the Marfa lights. * Pacific Historical Review *
This book is an easy, enjoyable, and informative read. It appeals to both the casual and academic reader, and those familiar and otherwise with the Big Bend area of Texas. It will be a valuable addition to the collections of many cultural geographers, especially those with an interest in sense of place, art, and tourism. * Journal of Cultural Geography *
Table of ContentsChapter 1. Introduction
Chapter 2. The History of Marfa
Chapter 3. Encountering the Landscape of Marfa
Chapter 4. Donald Judd in Marfa
Chapter 5. Marfa after Judd
Chapter 6. Conclusion
Acknowledgments
Notes
Index
