Gabrielle Selz

Gabrielle Selz has made contributions to the literary world through her exploration of art history and personal memoirs.

Selz's literary debut, Unstill Life (W.W. Norton, 2014), delves into her unique upbringing among some of the 20th century's most prominent artists and intellectuals. This memoir explores the complexities of her family life, set against the backdrop of the Age of Abstraction. The narrative interweaves personal anecdotes with significant art historical events, offering readers a rare glimpse into the intimate dynamics of a family deeply embedded in the art world. The book was critically acclaimed, earning the title of Best Memoir of the Year from the American Society of Journalists and Authors and recognized as one of the best books of 2014 by the San Francisco Chronicle.^[8][9]

In 2021, Selz published Light on Fire: The Art and Life of Sam Francis (University of California Press), the first comprehensive biography of the abstract expressionist Sam Francis. Drawing from a wealth of primary sources, including personal interviews and Francis's own writings, Selz presents a meticulously researched account of Francis's life and work. The book illuminates Francis's pivotal role in the development of post-war American art and his profound impact on the global art scene. It was awarded the silver medal in Nonfiction at the California Book Awards in 2022, highlighting its significant contribution to art historical scholarship.^[10][11]

In addition to her writing, Selz founded Selz Fine Art in 2019. Selz is accredited by the American Society of Appraisers.^[12]

Selz has been married and divorced twice, first to painter David Geiser, followed by a second marriage to Bogdan Mync, with whom she shares a son.^[13]