Cy Twombly (b.1928) is one of the leading figures from the generation of American artists that also included Andy Warhol and Jasper Johns. Unlike them, he left America early in his career to live and work in Italy where he drew inspiration from European literature and classical culture. He swiftly built an international reputation with his uniquely expressive abstract paintings and works on paper.Accompanying a major, touring retrospective of Twombly's work, to be held in his 80th year, this book will provide a long-needed critical overview of the artist's career, focusing on his paintings, drawings and sculpture.Nicholas Serota, Director of Tate, Richard Shiff, Nicholas Cullinan and the artist Tacita Dean will all contribute to the catalogue, which will also include a rare interview with the artist, an illustrated chronology, an exhibition history and extensive bibliography.Combining the latest scholarship with numerous colour illustrations, this will be the most thorough examination of the life and work of this extraordinary artist for years to come.