History of art Books

Book Synopsis''Endlessly intriguing . . . I was enchanted'' - DAILY TELEGRAPH''Illuminating in every sense of the word'' - John HiggsIn an illuminating blend of memoir and art history, The Other Side explores the lives and work of a group of extraordinary women artists. From the twelfth-century mystic Hildegard of Bingen and the nineteenth-century spiritualist Georgiana Houghton to the pioneering Hilma af Klint, these women all - in their own unique ways - shared the same goal: to communicate with, and learn from, other dimensions. Weaving in and out of their myriad lives, Jennifer Higgie considers the solace of ritual, the gender exclusions of art history, the contemporary relevance of myth, the boom in alternative ways of understanding the world and the impact of spiritualism on feminism and contemporary art.Trade ReviewIn effervescent and atmospheric prose, Jennifer Higgie explores some of history's most innovative artists and their spiritual investigations into this realm and the next. I was entranced from start to finish, as she takes us on both a personal and artistic journey across time and across the globe. The Other Side is an exhilarating read -- KATY HESSEL, author of THE STORY OF ART WITHOUT MENInvigorating . . . The Other Side [is] endlessly intriguing . . . I was enchanted * DAILY TELEGRAPH *The Other Side lit up my brain. A radical, fascinating exploration of art and the otherworldly, Higgie is an expert and erudite guide in this brilliant reclamation of female artists -- SINÉAD GLEESON, author of CONSTELLATIONSThe Other Side is a colourful, varied look at the many artists and thinkers who have touched worlds beyond our own - and a necessary reconsideration of why they have all too often been "brushed aside" * PROSPECT *Wonderful . . . Higgie guides us through overlooked stories from the history of art and reveals the insights into the nature of imagination which reside there. Illuminating in every sense of the word -- JOHN HIGGS, author of WILLIAM BLAKE VS THE WORLDA rewarding and invigorating read * SYDNEY MORNING HERALD *An entrancing look at formerly neglected artists who navigated thresholds between this world and the next, and a crucial exploration of realms formerly dismissed. Elegantly expanded my thinking on the eternal mystery of where art comes from -- JENNIFER LUCY ALLAN, author of THE FOGHORN'S LAMENTA majestic account of the ways in which women's art has developed in response to spiritual experience. Higgie traces a compelling route through an alternative history that attends to the astonishing work of female artists whose practice was deeply connected to spiritualism and the occult, and which was often far ahead of its time, anticipating practices and modes of modernist abstraction . . . endlessly surprising and ambitious -- Stephanie Bishop * THE MONTHLY *Ranging from 12th-century mystic Hildegard von Bingen to 20th-century painters such as Ithell Colquhoun and Hilma af Klint, Higgie teases out links between spiritualism, feminism and art history in this evocative study * APOLLO MAGAZINE *Jennifer Higgie is the most splendid of guides on this enthralling journey of a book. With tremendous intelligence, sensitivity and a receptivity nearly equal to that of her subjects, she leads us through a gallery of remarkable women artists whose dialogue with other realms became the font of their creativity as well as a sanctuary. Excellent, inspiring and transformative -- CHLOE ARIDJIS, author of SEA MONSTERSIntriguing . . . There is a vein of optimism and wonder running through the text -- Mary Gabriel * NEW YORK TIMES *

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Book SynopsisAs one of the people who defined punk’s protest art in the 1970s and 1980s, Gee Vaucher (b. 1945) deserves to be much better-known. She produced confrontational album covers for the legendary anarchist band Crass and later went on to do the same for Northern indie legends the Charlatans, among others. More recently, her work was recognised the day after Donald Trump's 2016 election victory, when the front page of the Daily Mirror ran her 1989 painting Oh America, which shows the Statue of Liberty, head in hands. This is the first book to critically assess an extensive range of Vaucher’s work. It examines her unique position connecting avant-garde art movements, counterculture, punk and even contemporary street art. While Vaucher rejects all ‘isms’, her work offers a unique take on the history of feminist art.Trade Review'Binns’s book is meticulously researched and well written, covering an area of punk history that deserves a full spotlight all of its own. Equal parts informing, accessible and compelling, this is the story of a woman whose talent and beliefs have made a huge contribution to conveying punk’s revolutionary message.'Molly Tie, Punktuation!‘A compelling documentation of an important figure in the postwar British counterculture: the stubbornly unpositionable Gee Vaucher. Binns traces the life and work of this uncompromising artist not only in the short high years of Crass and the anarcho-punk movement – dominated by Vaucher’s aesthetic – but also the decades before and after when she defined, refined and extended her powerful practice. Read this book for a brilliant and engaged creative life.’George McKay, Professor in Media Studies, University of East Anglia‘This is a long overdue contribution to an important history. Binns shines new light on Gee Vaucher's significance, showing how her method of photorealism-presented-as-montage can help us make sense of the “skewed reality” around us.’Lucy Robinson, Professor in Collaborative History, University of Sussex‘Gee Vaucher’s artwork was crucial to Crass: thought-provoking and confrontational always.’Adrian Sherwood, music producer'Gee’s indescribable artwork has been an inspiration for multiple generations of artists and art appreciators. Gee is proof that Art changes people's lives — and for the better!'Winston Smith, artist and illustrator (www.winstonsmith.com)‘Binns’s book is an expert feminist reading of the life and work of political graphic artist Gee Vaucher that adeptly writes this unsung heroine into a history of punk design. A must-read for these fractured times.’Teal Triggs, Professor of Graphic Design, Royal College of Art'An essential book, giving due attention to one of the most influential artists of the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. Gee Vaucher's artwork has been much copied but never bettered. Her influence is here captured expertly by Rebecca Binns's well-researched critical analysis.'Matt Worley, Professor of Modern History, University of Reading‘Finally! What those in the know have been waiting for: a comprehensive, revealing and long overdue analysis of the creative importance of Gee Vaucher. Set against the backdrop of recent socio-economic, political and cultural events, via (but not limited to) punk, this book confirms Vaucher as the trailblazing innovator that she is, and charts her artistic influence to-date. Rebecca Binns thoughtfully surveys over fifty years of Vaucher’s collage, photo-montage, painting, drawing, sculpture, film and installation, rightfully positioning her as a key player within art history, while refusing to restrict this uncategorisable artist to any particular movement. If you are familiar with Vaucher’s work, you have been vindicated. And if you are not, prepare to be amazed.’Marie-France Kittler, co-curator Gee Vaucher: Introspective (Firstsite, 2016) -- .Table of ContentsIntroduction1 The changing face of British arts, politics and culture during Vaucher’s art school years2 Radical art collectives and the free festivals movement 3 New York, political photomontage and the underground press 4 Towards the definition of a punk aesthetic 5 Crass art and the birth of anarcho-punk 6 Post-punk, hardcore, and the dissolution of the dream 7 Post Crass introspection: postmodernism and the anti-rationalist avant-garde 8 Beyond the art world: political agitation and public intervention in the new millennium Index

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Book SynopsisThis beautifully illustrated book is the first full-length critical study to focus on the watercolours of multitalented British artist and designer Eric Ravilious (1903–1942). Adopting the wide-ranging approach familiar to readers of his previous books on the artist, author James Russell explores the evolution of a remarkable talent. An introductory section offers an intimate portrait of Ravilious, an artist for whom personal relationships, particularly with women, were paramount. It goes on to describe the extraordinary achievements of an all-too-brief career, drawing on new research to seek out artistic influences and examine Ravilious’s relationships with fellow-artists, as well as the development of his mark making. There follows the most comprehensive display of Ravilious watercolours yet assembled. Some have never been published, while others are familiar and well loved. Many are explored in short accompanying essays, some with full-bleed images that show details of paintings at full size. These texts are designed to entertain and enlighten, looking at composition, technique, influence and inspiration, or discussing the significance of particular subjects and the people behind the scenes. This is the definitive guide to the luminous, evocative and timeless watercolours of Eric Ravilious, an artist now regarded as one of the finest of the twentieth century.Trade ReviewThe thematic sections consist of superb reproductions of the paintings in the exhibition, including some full-size detail views bled out to the edges of the page * The Eclectic Light Company *Table of ContentsForeword Preface Ravilious: A Portrait Relics & Curiosities Figures & Forms Interiors Place & Season Changing Perspectives Darkness & Light Exhibitions Timeline Notes Select Bibliography Acknowledgements Image Credits Index

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Book SynopsisShow your love of The Lord of the Rings with this beautiful collection of three 64-page notebooksone ruled, one dot grid, and one undated plannerfor all your writing and planning needs.

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Book Synopsis"You need this Millennial Loteria for your next game night." -Latina Magazine "Loteria cards got a genius millennial makeover." -The Chicago Tribune OMG, can you even? Millennial Loteria is a hilarious and insightful parody of the classic "Mexican Bingo" game called Loteria, but this time, it's like way more millennial. Born from the viral Instagram account @MillennialLoteria, this game reimagines La Dama as La Feminist, El Catrin as El Hipster, and Las Jaras as La Hashtag. Filled with nostalgia and ironic humor, it's guaranteed to make your next fiesta be lit AF. So grab your bitcoins, get a couple of your fave followers together, and prepare to yell "Yaaaaasssssssssss, Millennial Loteria!" Each set includes: - 46 cards - 10 boards - 80 bitcoin tokens - and a collectible Millennial Loteria pin!Trade Review"You need this Millennial Loteria for your next game night." -Latina Magazine "Millennial Loteria se ha vuelto un icono de la sociedad actual latina y un hit en Instagram" -Cosmopolitan Magazine Mexico "Loteria cards for Millennials exist and they are too perfect." -PopSugar.com "Someone made loteria for millennials and it's for sure gonna sell out fast." -Vivala.com "Perfect for the woke generation." -HipLatina.com "This guy gave Loteria the millennial makeover they deserve" -Huffington Post "All hail Millennial Loteria, the brilliant rendition of the game created by Mike Alfaro." - HelloGiggles.com "Loteria cards got a genius millennial makeover" -The Chicago Tribune "A witty, introspective, and at times, critical version of the game that many Latinos grew up loving." -Remezcla.com

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Book SynopsisGeorgia O’Keeffe (1887–1986) was a major figure in modern American art for some seven decades. Importantly, her fame was not associated with shifting art styles and trends, but rather with her own unique vision, based on finding essential and abstract forms in nature. O’Keeffe’s primary subjects were landscapes, flowers, and bones, each explored in successive series over several years. Certain works went on for decades, producing 12 or more variations of an original image. Among these, O’Keeffe’s magnified pictures of calla lilies and irises are her most famous. Enlarging the tiniest petals to fill an entire canvas, O’Keeffe created a proto-abstract vocabulary of shapes and lines, earning her the moniker “mother of American modernism.” In 1946, O’Keeffe became the first female artist to be given a solo show at the MoMA in New York. This introductory book from TASCHEN Basic Art 2.0 traces O’Keeffe’s long and luminous career through key paintings, contemporary photographs, and portraits taken by Alfred Stieglitz, to whom O’Keeffe was married. We follow the artist through her pioneering innovations, major breakthroughs, and her travels and inspirations in Southeast Asia, India, the Middle East, and, above all, New Mexico, where she was particularly inspired by the majestic landscapes, vivid colors and exotic vegetation.

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Book SynopsisAlexander Lee is a fellow in the Centre for the Study of the Renaissance at the University of Warwick. A specialist in the history of the Italian Renaissance, he completed his first two degrees at Trinity College, University of Cambridge, before proceeding to undertake his doctoral research at the University of Edinburgh. He has previously held positions at the Università degli studi di Bergamo and the Université du Luxembourg. He the author of numerous studies on the Italian Renaissance, including, most recently, Petrarch and St. Augustine: Classical Scholarship, Christian Theology, and the Origins of the Renaissance in Italy (2012), and is currently working on a study of humanistic concepts of empire in the fourteenth century.Trade ReviewFascinating … explores the dualities of creative brilliance and human baseness with a mastery of sources and a popular touch that vividly brings the whole period to life. * Spectator *Effortlessly combines scholarly depth with a highly accessible style. * New Humanist *In this lively decipherment, Alexander Lee explains what’s really going on [in Renaissance art]. * Independent *

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Book SynopsisThink Like an Artist by BBC Arts editor Will Gompertz - wisdom and smart thinking from Da Vinci to Ai WeiweiWhy do some people seem to find it easy to come up with fresh, brilliant ideas? And how do they turn them into something worthwhile?After spending years getting up close and personal with some of the world''s greatest creative thinkers, the BBC''s Arts Editor Will Gompertz has discovered a handful of traits that are common to them all. Basic practices and processes that allow their talents to flourish, and which we can adopt - no matter what we do - to help us achieve extraordinary things too. It''s time to Think Like An Artist and ...Become Seriously Curious(Caravaggio''s discovery of optical lenses changed art for ever.)Think Big Picture and Fine Detail(Turner transformed a masterpiece with a tiny dab of red paint.)And realize ... It''s Nearly Always Plan B(Mondrian spent years painTrade ReviewWill Gompertz is the best teacher you never had * Guardian *The Shock of the New redone a la Bill Bryson . . . richly detailed and highly entertaining * Daily Telegraph on What Are You Looking At? *Hugely accessible . . . writes about difficult things without letting on that they are difficult * Independent on Sunday on What Are You Looking At? *A romp through art history and the creative mind ... full of entertaining anecdote * Guardian *Gompertz doesn't have it in him to be boring. He clearly loves art too much and his book ... succeeds as a short love letter to art. The pictures are wonderful * The Times *

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Book SynopsisA celebration of Ukraineâs rich cultural heritage, drawing on over 100 of the countryâs most important works of art and architectural monuments from prehistory to the present. Showcasing more than one hundred objects and buildings â from Byzantine icons and wooden churches to gold-domed cathedrals, folk art, and avant-garde masterpieces â Treasures of Ukraine chronicles the rich arts and heritage of a country currently facing destruction and devastation. The significance of the pieces is explained by renowned artists, curators, and critics, revealing the nationâs complex history and its impact on the present. From the development of ancient cultures like Trypillia and Scythia to early states such as Kyivan Rus and the Cossack Hetmanate, to the dawn of Modernism and the striking contemporary paintings and political artworks being produced today, Treasures of Ukraine reminds us that art and monuments represent powerful sources of collective memory and identity. All proceeds will Trade Review'Timely and poignant … perfectly chronicles and captures the rich artistic and cultural heritage of a country facing destruction and devastation. A forceful reminder of the importance of art and monuments as powerful sources of collective memory and identity' - Luxury London'Impactful' - Citizen Femme'Current events have taught us a great deal about Ukraine. We have all become aware that it has an entirely distinct identity from Russia – historically, socially and also artistically, as TREASURES OF UKRAINE makes clear … This handsomely illustrated volume demonstrates that there is a great deal to see there, which one hopes will still exist when the war is over' - Martin Gayford, The Spectator'A timely reminder of how much is at stake in the ongoing war with Russia ... Features a broad range of Ukrainian art ... Much of Ukraine's art is tied to religion ... but as this book shows, Ukraine is no stranger to Modernism, Art Nouveau or the Avant-garde' - NPR'A corrective to Putin's version of history, in which Ukraine has been nothing more than a part of Russia... Introduced by the novelist Andrey Kurkov, the book features eight Ukrainian academics, curators and art critics writing about works of art created inhabitants of the region, from Scythian stone stelae of the 6th century B.C. to recent videos made by graduates of the National University of Cinema in Kyiv' - The Washington Post'This gorgeous book documents the history of Ukrainian art and culture through more than 220 photographs of the country’s religious buildings, masterpieces, architectural monuments, and more' - The Washingtonian'Timely and attractive … With this fairly compact book covering such a long sweep of history, the texts on each specific subject are brief, but offer enough information to give an easily comprehensible introduction to a period and a flavour of some of Ukraine’s diverse cultural riches, from Scythian stone figures and medieval castles to experimental theatre and New Brutalism, showcased by abundant illustrations' - Minerva'With chapters on Orthodox icons and Catholic cathedrals, Soviet avant-gardism and nationalist folk crafts, this book illustrates a culture whose very diversity now puts it in danger' - New York Times'Engaging and enlightening... Tells Ukraine’s broader history through a survey of its art' - New York Journal of Books'Stunning … a rich, rewarding and ultimately moving celebration of the country’s long history' - All About History'A corrective to the destruction of war … highly readable' - Studio international'An utterly exceptional edition that reveals a panoramic representation of Ukrainian art within the intricate fabric of European culture' - ChytomoTable of ContentsIntroduction: Andrey Kurkov Map of Ukraine 1. Pre-history to Early History Andriy Puchkov 2. Kyivan Rus Christian A. Raffensperger 3. The Lithuanian–Ruthenian State Diana Klochko 4. The Ukrainian Baroque Era Maksym Yaremenko 5. The Nineteenth Century and the Fin-de-Siecle Alisa Lozhkina 6. Avant-Garde Art and Theatre Myroslava M. Mudrak 7. Soviet Rule, the Ukrainian SSR and Non-conformist Art Oleksandr Soloviev 8. Postmodern and Contemporary Art Victoria Burlaka Appendix: Folk arts Alisa Lozhkina Timeline of Ukrainian History

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Book SynopsisSaeb Eigner is an Arabist with a deep knowledge of the Middle East and a committed advocate of the arts. For several decades he has been an avid collector of modern and contemporary Middle Eastern art, and much of his collection is on long-term loan to the London Business School (of which he has been a governor for many years). Saeb Eigner was a senior adviser on the British Museum's exhibition Word into Art: Artists of the Middle East (2006; touring internationally from 2008, with Saeb acting as co-curator), and is author of Art of the Middle East: Modern and Contemporary Art of the Arab World and Iran (foreword by Zaha Hadid; Merrell, 2010).

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisA major monograph available again in a new, compact format, published to coincide with this autumn's Anselm Kiefer exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts.Table of ContentsContents • Labyrinth • Venice, 1980 • Books I • Arts of Memory • Palettes • Acts of Mourning • Books II • Repositioning • Lead Threads of Time • ‘Something Raw’ • Notes • Bibliography • Index of Illustrations • Biography and Exhibitions • Selected Publications

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Book SynopsisWith a survey of African textiles on the market, this book illustrates over 570 spectacular colour photographs the traditional, hand crafted, indigenous textiles of the whole continent. It provides a wealth of information on the rich art of African textiles.Trade Review'Spectacular ... this book really does span a whole continent ... a wealth of detail in this book which would be useful and fascinating for makers of all disciplines' - Craftsman Magazine'This lovely book is a visual feast which enriches our knowledge of the textile crafts of Africa' - The Textile Directory OnlineTable of ContentsIntroduction: The Diversity of African Textiles • West Africa • North Africa • East Africa Central Africa • Southern Africa

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Book SynopsisThis sweeping overview of Rembrandt's extraordinary achievement as a draughtsman fills a gap in the otherwise enormous literature on the artist. Beautifully illustrated, mostly in colour, the more than 150 drawings culled from a corpus of some 800 are discussed in detail. The drawings span Rembrandt's entire productive life as an artist, from early self-portraits in the 1620s to late drawings from the 1660s of the victim of an execution, a state coach, and historical and mythological images. The scope of the book allows readers to delve into the very broad range of Rembrandt's oeuvre of drawings.Trade Review'Excellent … fills a real gap in the literature' - Sunday Times'An eloquent introduction to Rembrandt's genius as a draughtsman … here is virtuosity and humanity together, on every page' - Financial Times'Slive's commentary is subtle, erudite and sympathetic' - Sunday Telegraph'A very readable account by a distinguished scholar' - The Art Newspaper'Beautiful … the definitive study' - The Wall Street Journal

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Book SynopsisA concise, reader-friendly illustrated survey of Western art and architecture from prehistory to the present day. Acknowledging how architecture, painting, sculpture and the decorative arts reflect the culture and society of their time, this latest addition to the Art Essentials series invites the reader to experience and appreciate the entirety of Western art from prehistory to today. Focusing on the âhistoryâ in art history, each of the twelve chapters opens with a question to ponder, followed by a summary of the major historical developments of the period, touching on social structure, political organization, migration, race, religious beliefs, scientific advances and customs. An exploration of these themes in the visual arts reveals how architecture, sculpture and painting simultaneously shape, reflect, and document the culture of the time and place they were created. A secondary focus explores the constantly evolving aesthetic preferences that swing between naturalism Trade Review'As well as providing perceptive comments on key individual works of art and architecture, Janetta Rebold Benton gives us a very precise understanding of their historical contexts' - Richard CorkTable of ContentsIntroduction Part One Prehistoric through ancient Roman art Chapter 1. Antecedents of the Western Tradition: Prehistoric, Mesopotamian and Egyptian art Chapter 2. Aegean and Greek art Chapter 3. Etruscan and Roman art Part Two Early Christian through medieval art Chapter 4. Early Christian and Byzantine art Chapter 5. Early Medieval and Romanesque art Chapter 6. Gothic art Part Three Renaissance through Neoclassical art Chapter 7. Renaissance and Mannerist art Chapter 8. 17th-century Baroque art Chapter 9. 18th-century Rococo and Neoclassical art Part Four Romanticism to today Chapter 10. Romanticism, Realism, Impressionism and Post-Impressionism Chapter 11. Earlier 20th-century art Chapter 12. Later 20th- & early 21st-century art

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Book SynopsisA facsimile edition of the classic High Street, which pairs the timeless illustrations of Eric Ravilious with a fascinating text by architectural historian J. M. Richards. First published in 1938, this charming book introduces the British high street. Shops include the family butcher, the cheesemonger, the baker and confectioner and the oyster bar, as well as specialized establishments such as the plumassier, the clerical outfitter and the submarine engineer. Only 2,000 copies of the original book were printed before the lithographic plates were destroyed in the London Blitz. As a result, it has become one of the most collectible of all artistsâ books from this period. This beautiful facsimile edition features all 24 of Raviliousâs colour illustrations, and includes an essay by Gill Saunders, Senior Curator of Prints at the Victoria and Albert Museum, that sets the book in its historical context.Table of ContentsForeword Family Butcher Coach Builder Fire Engineer Letter Maker Hardware Naturalist : Furrier : Plumassier Theatrical Properties Wedding Cakes Restaurant and Grill Room Hams Saddler and Harness Maker Fireworks Baker and Confectioner Clerical Outfitter Public House Undertaker Submarine Engineer Second-hand Furniture and Effects Model Ships and Railways Oyster Bar Pharmaceutical Chemist Cheesemonger Amusement Arcade Knife Grinder

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisManuscripts from the British Library, Bibliotheque Nationale de France and the Getty Museum have been selected, and projects are illustrated with step-by-step photographs and beautiful images of the finished works.

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Book SynopsisAn impressive new reference book on the life and works of Renaissance man Michelangelo - sculptor, painter, architect, engineer and poet

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Book SynopsisA lively and expert account of Edouard Manet, one of the greatest French artists, whose striking realism has led to him being called the first modern painter. Vivid biography is combined with a superb gallery of his work, with 500 stunning reproductions and photographs.

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Book SynopsisFeatures the paintings and other artworks of an artist who is one of the most prolific and successful artists of the Golden Age Illustration, and captivated audiences throughout the first half of the twentieth century.

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Book SynopsisThe spry and devilishly creative pin-up elder-statesman Archie Dickens is back with a new compendium of cuties to delight an appreciative public. Each portrait features a delightful damsel doing something perfectly ordinary, but in such an extraordinary way. A real must-have for fans of the classic pin-up.

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Book SynopsisThe first critical study of writing without language In recent years, asemic writing—writing without language—has exploded in popularity, with anthologies, a large-scale art exhibition, and flourishing interest on sites like tumblr, YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram. Yet this burgeoning, fascinating field has never received a dedicated critical study. Asemic fills that gap, proposing new ways of rethinking the nature of writing.Pioneered in the work of creators such as Henri Michaux, Roland Barthes, and Cy Twombly, asemic writing consolidated as a movement in the 1990s. Author Peter Schwenger first covers these “asemic ancestors” before moving to current practitioners such as Michael Jacobson, Rosaire Appel, and Christopher Skinner, exploring how asemic writing has evolved and gained importance in the contemporary era.Asemic includes intriguing revelations about the relation of asemic writing to Chinese characters, the possibility of asemic writing in nature, and explanations of how we can read without language. Written in a lively style, this book will engage scholars of contemporary art and literary theory, as well as anyone interested in what writing was and what it is now in the process of becoming.Trade Review"How does the noncommunicative communicate? This is the seemingly innocent question Peter Schwenger unpacks. At once storehouse and treatise, Asemic has the clarity of a dictionary entry, its sagacity delivered with deceptive ease, revealing a domain vaster than anyone would have thought: a Copernican marvel."—Jed Rasula, author of History of a Shiver: The Sublime Impudence of Modernism"Asemic is a long-overdue study of poetries that occupy liminal spaces between art, like Twombly's paintings, and recognizable words, like Michaux's poetry. Peter Schwenger offers an extended theory and an introductory survey of contemporary asemic writing by Michael Jacobson, Rosaire Appel, Christopher Skinner, and others. From this book one can learn to read and, by extension, teach a-semiological texts."—Craig Saper, co-editor of Readies for Bob Brown's Machine"This is the first full-length exploration of the history and meaning of asemic writing. Important figures such as Michaux, Twombly, Barthes, Jim Leftwich, and Rosaire Appel are included, as well as examples from Chinese culture. Well-chosen illustrations accompany Peter Schwenger's insightful text. This book is a solid first map of a territory previously unknown to academic study."—Tim Gaze, publisher of Asemic magazine"What emerges in Schwenger’s book is an aesthetics of language, and of reading in par- ticular, that draws attention to how asemic writing lets us dive into the untapped possibilities of incomprehension."—Literary Review of Canada"The Art of Writing,Peter Schwenger’s engaging and groundbreaking book focused on the asemic as a cultural phenomenon and ratified genre of modern and contemporary art."—Art in America"Peter Schwenger offers a history of the practice, linking modern era pioneers like Barthes, Henri Michaux, and Cy Twombly to lesser-known contemporary practitioners Michael Jacobson, Rosaire Appel, and Christopher Skinner. Pulling examples of asemic writing from a diversity of fields—across contemporary art, comics, notation, and even nature—he demonstrates poet Michael Jacobson’s fitting definition of his field: “Without words, asemic writing is able to relate to all words, colors, and even music, irrespective of the author or the reader’s original language.”"—The Brooklyn Rail"Peter Schwenger offers the first book-length academic study of this vibrant field; it is an important and valuable start to the formal study of asemic writing."—Rain Taxi Review of Books"Vital and fateful . . . engagingly international."—CAA Reviews"In a clear and in-depth way, Asemic: the Art of Writing can be seen as a first official notation of that dance, excelling in the ability to bring to a wider audience the intricacies of a subject often seen as a niche of encrypted doodles legible only to a few."—Electric Book Review

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Book SynopsisFROM THE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING AUTHOR'A beautifully written, literary tour-de-force' John Ironmonger, author of Not Forgetting the Whale'A wonderfully written story of art, but also of obsession, friendship and love - I absolutely adored this novel' Jillian CantorThe Mona Lisa has hung in the Louvre for over two-hundred years. She has watched alone in silence as millions of people have admired her behind the glass.Now, she is finally ready to tell her own story.Over five centuries, from da Vinci's bustling Florentine studio to the opulent French court, Mona will be desired, stolen, heartbroken, curious, furious, and above all, she will be heard.'Solomons' prose is lyrical and her detail immense. No longer can I look at the Mona Lisa without hearing her. But more, now I know her' PRESS ASSOCIATIONTrade Review[A] lively, tender tale . . . In her zingy new novel [Solomons] gives the Mona Lisa . . . power, casting her as the fanciful narrator of her own story * The Times *Solomons' prose is lyrical and her detail immense. No longer can I look at the Mona Lisa without hearing her. But more, now I know her * Press Association *A wonderfully written story of art, but also of obsession, friendship and love - I absolutely adored this novel -- Jillian Cantor, author of The Lost Letter and In Another TimeOh, my god, I love this book! Extraordinarily inventive, a beautifully written, literary tour-de-force - a delicious historical and artistic feast -- John Ironmonger, author of Not Forgetting the WhaleA vividly beautiful tribute * Woman's Own Magazine *

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Book SynopsisOriginally published in 1930 in an edition of 100 copies, Gertrude Stein’s Dix Portraits pairs her singular literary style with original lithographs by Pablo Picasso and other artists in Stein’s circle to create an exceptional artist’s book exploring written and visual portraiture. Written between 1913 and 1929, revolutionary years in art history, Dix Portraits conveys the deep human engagement between an artist and her subject. The artist’s book unites Stein’s ten portraits in prose with sketches by five artists: Pablo Picasso, Christian Bérard, Eugene Berman, Pavel Tchelitchew, and Kristians Tonny. Utilizing the interplay between word and image, Stein’s writing and the artists’ images provide nuance and depth, balancing humor and sincerity. With a new introduction by Lynne Tillman, Dix Portraits is an unforgettable artistic collaboration. The subjects represented include Pablo Picasso, Guillaume Apollinaire, Erik Satie, Pavel Tchelitchew, Virgil Thomson, Christian Bérard, Bernard Faÿ, Kristians Tonny, Georges Hugnet, and Eugene Berman. Originally printed in an edition of 100 copies with the lithography, and now widely accessible for the first time, Dix Portraits captures Stein’s legacy as a champion of artists and a pioneer of creativity.

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Book SynopsisOver the past two decades contemporary African art has taken its rightful place on the world stage. Today, African artists work outside the confines of limiting categories and outdated perceptions; they produce art that is as much a reflection of Africa's tumultuous past as it is a vision of its boundless future. Far-reaching in its scope, African Art Now celebrates the diversity and dynamism of the contemporary African art scene across the continent today.Featuring the work of Njideka Akunyili Crosby, Michael Armitage, Amoako Boafo, Cassi Namoda, Cinga Samson, Zina Saro-Wiwa and many more.Trade ReviewPublished in collaboration with the Tate, this expansive and far-reaching overview features some of the most interesting and innovative artists working today * Artmag *

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Book Synopsis'A marvel of storytelling and a masterclass in the history of the book' WALL STREET JOURNALThe Renaissance in Florence conjures images of beautiful frescoes and elegant buildings - the dazzling handiwork of the city's artists and architects. But equally important were geniuses of another kind: Florence's manuscript hunters, scribes, scholars and booksellers. At a time where all books were made by hand, these people helped imagine a new and enlightened world. At the heart of this activity was a remarkable bookseller: Vespasiano da Bisticci. His books were works of art in their own right, copied by talented scribes and illuminated by the finest miniaturists. With a client list that included popes and royalty, Vespasiano became the 'king of the world's booksellers'. But by 1480 a new invention had appeared: the printed book, and Europe's most prolific merchant of knowledge faced a formidable new challenge.'A spectacular life of the book trade's Renaissance man' JOHN CAREY, SUNDAY TIMESTrade ReviewIf you want to celebrate the place that bookmaking and bookselling still have in our lives . . . immerse yourself in Ross King's rich history of Vespasiano da Bisticci, "the king of the world's booksellers," in 15th-century Florence . . . wonderful -- Simon Schama * New York Times *Excellent . . . a fascinating read . . . Though ostensibly a biography of Vespasiano, he is less the book's subject than its method: a window on to the intellectual, political and technological developments of a time in radical ferment . . . entertaining, witty and expert -- Tim Smith-Laing * Daily Telegraph *A brilliant narrative that seamlessly weaves together intellectual debate, technological exploration and the excitement of new ways of thinking about ethics, politics and human capability -- Rowan WilliamsA terrific and utterly absorbing read, full of narrative pace and remarkable breadth and depth of scholarship. It deserves to make the bestseller lists . . . I haven't enjoyed a history book as much for years -- John GuyThe Bookseller of Florence is a way of entering the world of Renaissance humanism and its fascination with the writings of the past at a time when these were still - but not for much longer - handwritten -- Charles Saumarez Smith * Oldie *

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Book SynopsisNo one captures the graces and idiosyncrasies of cats quite like the painters, printmakers, and haiku masters of Japan. From the Edo to the Showa period, many artists turned their gaze toward an unlikely subject: their small feline companions. Closely observed portraits in words and ink elevate the everyday adventures of cats: taking a nap on a Buddha statue's lap, daintily eating a rice ball, courting the neighbor's cat. This curated collection of poems, prints, and paintings will leave you inspired to cultivate the serenity and wonder embodied by these creators - and by the cats themselves. Presented as a sweet, jacketed paperback with thoughtful design touches, this volume includes each poem in both English and Japanese.

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Book SynopsisThe Story of Aston Martin is a compact and beautifully designed celebration of the iconic car manufacturer.With their stunning looks and powerful engineering, Aston Martin''s cars have been synonymous with speed and luxury for more than 110 years. In The Story of Aston Martin, every aspect of the legendary brand''s success is celebrated, from its pre-WWI beginnings to its current position at the summit of design and construction.Mixing heritage and creativity, Aston Martin has produced some of the most sought-after cars ever made. From the DB4 GT Zagato and James Bond''s DB5 to the DBR1 Le Mans winner and the extraordinary Valkyrie hypercar, this famous marque is a by-word for sophistication and performance. And with its sports car and F1 racing teams, Aston Martin has also proven itself on the racetrack.Filled with stunning imagery and insightful commentary, The Story of Aston Martin charts the history of this legendary marque in

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Book SynopsisWhy should an artist's way of looking at the world have any meaning for us? Any artwork reflects the artist's intentions, but also its times: therefore all art is political

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Book Synopsis <h3>'Rolfe explores the fascinating link between heels and both physical and psychological power. Divided into four shoe categories and accompanied by archival images from the pages of British Vogue, the book provides a charming documentation of what is arguably fashion's most powerful accessory - from sleek Chanel sling-backs to brazen creations by Balenciaga.' - British Vogue 'You can never take too much care over the choice of your shoes. Too many women think that they are unimportant, but the but the real proof of an elegant woman is what is on her feet.' - Christian DiorThere is an indefinable magic, mystique and fascination about high-heeled shoes that passes all understanding or logic. How can you explain that the simple act of pointing your toes and gently slipping them into a pair of towering heels can be such a powerful experience physically, psychologically and emotionally? As British Vogue has charted over the last hundred years, by stepping into a pair of heels, a woman's personality is instantly transformed. Divided into the categories of Fancy Footwork, Enduring Classics, Step Up and Rainbow Heels, British Vogue's archive of fashion photos has been plundered to showcase the most beautiful, memorable, rule-breaking and trend-setting heels to be photographed in its 100-year history.Trade ReviewThis captivating new series from Conran Octopus and British Vogue explores the key pieces in a stylish woman's wardrobe. - Vogue

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Book SynopsisThe first major survey of the occult collection of artworks, letters, objects and ephemera in the Tate Archive and collection. Revealing over 150 esoteric and mystical pieces, some never before seen, this book gives a new understanding to the artists in the Tate collection and the history and practice of the occult. A lavishly illustrated magical volume acts a potent talisman connecting the two worlds of Tate – the seen public collection and the unseen secrets lurking in the archive. The pages of this book explore the hidden artworks and ephemera left behind by artists, and shed new light on our understanding of the art historical canon. It offers an in-depth exploration of the occult and its relationship to art and culture including witchcraft, alchemy, secret societies, folklore and pagan rituals, demonology, spells and magic, psychic energies, astrology and tarot. Expect to find the unexpected in the works and lives of artists such as Ithell Colquhoun, Paul Nash, Barbara Hepworth, Cecil Collins, John William Waterhouse, Alan Davie, Joe Tilson, Henry Moore, Eileen Agar, William Blake, Leonora Carrington and Pamela Colman Smith. For the first time, the clandestine, magical works of the Tate archive are revealed with archivist Victoria Jenkins exploring relationships between art and the occult, and how both can act as a form of resistance to challenging environments. This book challenges perceptions and illuminates the surprising breadth and extraordinary ways in which artists interpret not just the physical world around them but also the supernatural, to make the unseen, seen. If you think you know Tate artists, it’s time to think again.

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Book SynopsisSpanning 300 years of art history and weaving art styles including Cubism, Surrealism, and the Baroque into his prose, Jake Kendall tells the stories of those with an obsession for creationartists who sacrifice friendships, careers, romance, and even their own happiness in pursuit of a vision.

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Book SynopsisJean-Louis Haguenauer is the founder of the Montresso Art Foundation. Estelle Guillié is the artistic director of the Montresso Art Foundation.

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Book SynopsisThe rebel hero of Abstract Expressionism, Jackson Pollock (1912–1956) careened through his life like a firework across the American art landscape. Channeling ideas from sources as diverse as Picasso and Mexican surrealism, he rejected convention to develop his own way of seeing, interpreting, and expressing. Pollock’s most famous works are his drip paintings, where he dripped and poured household enamel paint over the canvas with a variety of instruments, from sticks to syringes, hardened brushes to broken bits of glass. The splattered results pulsate with energy, replacing the refinement of easel and brush with something altogether more immediate, vivid, and physical. To evade the viewer’s search for figurative elements in his paintings, Pollock abandoned titles and identified each work with a neutral number only. Notoriously reclusive and volatile, struggling with alcoholism, married to fellow Abstract Expressionist Lee Krasner, and killed in a car crash aged just 44, Pollock is as much a compelling celebrity icon as an artistic pioneer. This essential artist introduction explores both his work and his fame to shed light on masterpieces of the modernist story, and the making of a cultural icon.

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