2 comments about Music Business Handbook and Career Guide.

1. As hard as it is to put artist and business person in the same body, anyone who wants to succeed as a musician must at least try. This book is a comprehensive and practical resource to use. I would use it, however, in conjunction with other resources that can provide complementary information and updates on how the music business is changing today.



2. I had this as a textbook in my Intro to Music Industry Studies at college. It gives you all the basic aspects of the music industry, including jobs, marketing and a bunch of other stuff. It doesn't go into great depth so if you're wanting a more detailed view of how the music industry works I suggest that you try to find another book to buy separately or go along with this. It includes all of the basic terms necessary for the business of recording, marketing, merchandising, etc.

1 comments about Jim Dine (Modern Masters Series, Vol. 18).

1. As an art student, I am fascinated by the way artists put media to paper, in the most basic way, and draw. In this book, 'Jim Dine: Drawings from the Glyptotech' we are shown the true art of drawing. By taking a pretty straightforward model, e.g. a statue, Dine renders something quite unique. How can one artist lay open the heart and soul of something so static as a statue? But, surprisingly, he does this with economy of line and media. The drawings show strength and depth and you are left with a knowledge of real people and their lives, in a two-dimensional sense. The text is concise and you immediately understand the points Dine is making in relation to his drawings. The reproductions of his drawings are exceptional. This book should be in every art students' (and artists, for that matter) bookcase as an essential reference point from where to start drawing. I have learnt so much from Jim Dine in this book that I just want to spend years exploring the art of putting down good lines on paper.

5 comments about Complete Letters of Vincent Van Gogh.

1. The value of Van Gogh's letters is not disputed. More the pity that the publisher of THIS edition chose to put these three volumes together the same as a mass market paperback, pages just glued in. There are no longer any color illustrations. All the many drawings are reproduced in poor quality, worse than a Xerox machine. Buy a used 1st edition instead.



2. I first read this set back in the late 1980s while in college, and I've long wanted to own a set for myself. With the recent discovery of a possible actual portrait photograph of him, I happily purchased a set to refresh my knowledge of van Gogh, who has long been my favorite artist. This collection is unique in the art world, starting when he was about 17 -- well before he started on his career as a painter -- and continues on until his death. It offers an infinitely fascinating peek into his motivations and his thought process.
   
   It is also infinitely heartbreaking to read, since, as all personal letters, van Gogh never conceived of having such fame that all his personal thoughts to his beloved brother would be seen and read by people all over the world. Reading such things as Vincent asking Theo for some money so he can buy some new underwear, because his current set is falling apart, makes me feel like an eavesdropper -- how hard it must have been for him to write it, and how embarassed he would feel to know others can read it so easily. Such inimate things happen over and over again in this collection.
   
   If you are fascinated by the creative process, by van Gogh, or are a student of art history, this collection is for you. It is a testament to Theo's belief in his brother that he saved all these letters, and that he helped fund his brother's passion for painting for ten years. This collection is beautiful, and well worth the price.



3. These are "THE" books to read by anyone who truly wants to know Vincent. He writes about his life and the people in it in great detail, and writes about his thoughts and desires on almost every imaginable subject. These books are a treasure to own.



4. Other Amazon reviewers have related to the three volume complete letters, with introduction and memoir. I will relate only to the letters of Van Gogh themselves , and that portion of them which I have read. They are surely one of the great documents for anyone interested in the connection between literary and artistic creation. They certainly too are a moving and frightening document of the inner life of a tremendously tormented soul and great artist. There is aside from this focus on Vincent the feeling given in the correspondance of what a considerate, helpful, wonderful brother he had . Just to listen to the rantings of a madman genius which often tend to repeat themselves and which however brilliant must often upset and throw one off one's equilibrium, is a great act of kindness. The friendship of the brothers is a great theme of this work. As for Van Gogh how tormented his soul how rich his creation.Those wavy lines those deeply clear eyes seem to express a kind of horror and fear no other artist can match.



5. This beautiful set of Van Gogh's letters starts with an introduction by his nephew (Theo's son) and a biography of Vincent Van Gogh by his sister-in-law , Theo's widow. It is a special set of books. The boxed set is very beautiful and I have it on display in my living room. I was fortunate enough to have seen the Van Gogh exhibit in Amsterdam ..., (and to have seen the Van Gogh exhibit when it came to the U.S. over 30 years ago. ...). I feel the artist's extraordinary family did so much to bring his art and writing to us, including this lovely book set. I thought the ... price was most reasonable considering what I got, and it made my trip to Holland even more special!

1 comments about Son of Man, Volume II: Miracles of Jesus (Son of Man).

1. Susan Easton Black and Liz Lemon Swindle have teamed up again to produce a quality, moving account in art and text. A wonderful gift item for all Christians, especially nice when combined with the first volume.

1 comments about Joseph Beuys: The Reader.

1. This book is a much appreciated addition to the available writings on Joseph Beuys. Mesch and Michely have succeeded in providing a context for studying the work of Beuys. This has been an elusive task for any student of Beuys, due to the wide variety of projects that he pursued and the manipulations of his media persona. 'Joseph Beuys: The Reader' is beautifully organized to be very helpful in undertaking the vast difference of opinion of a vast and sometimes seemingly disconnected art practice. The six sections that divide the book each address a central issue concerning Beuys art practice and his relationship to art history. These topical sections, rather than a chronological or biographical organization (which is the norm according to the introduction), allow the reader to much more easily make comparisons and contrasts between the individual essays. As well, each essay offers some of the best writing on Beuys, focusing on his artwork rather than his legend.
   
   This book is a fundamental for any person who is interested in understanding the work (and myth) of Joseph Beuys.

No comments about Is Art History Global? (Art Seminar).

3 comments about Art of Tibet (World of Art).

1. The beautiful and complex art of Tibet accepts many stylistic influences from other countries, including India (Pala, and later even the Mughal Empire), Nepal, Kashmir, and of course, China. Iconographically, it draws on the incredibly complicated Tibetan (Vajrayana) Buddhist pantheon, in which innumerable gods, originally from Hindu India, are first recycled through the esoteric doctrines of Mahayana Buddhism, then redoubled to add their Tibet-specific divine consorts and guardians, and finally redoubled again to add all the monks, lamas, arhats, founders, and followers of each of four major monastic (teaching) orders and their many sub-lineages.

   Fortunately, we have Fisher's book to help guide us and start to make sense of it all. The author begins with an overview of the Tibetan pantheon - Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, Protectors, revered humans - and goes on to review the major forms of expression in architecture, painting, and sculpture. These are followed by a chronological survey of the art of Tibet, from the 11th to the 19th centuries. The book contains 180 illustrations, half of which are in color. Many of the black-and-white photographs depict wonderful objects which, sadly, have not survived into the present day.

   Because there is so much detail in Tibetan painting, the small format of the illustrations (page size 6" x 8") can be a disadvantage. Another caution is that a book this size (200 pages) can't possibly answer all the questions that even a beginner might have. Within its size limitations, however, the author has done a good job of illustrating and discussing the essentials of this art; the book is a real bargain at the price. I used it as a quick "refresher" before seeing the "Himalayas" exhibit (2003, Sackler Gallery, Washington, DC), and in general I think the book would be helpful and enjoyable to just about anyone who is looking for an introduction or review of the art of Tibet.




2. This book abounds with solid, logically presented information, free of art-speak and subjective judgments. Every place referenced in the text is shown on the comprehensive map which is undistorted by page joinery, lying flat when the book is opened. Discussions of materials and techniques are understandable. Every artistic expression of the Tibetan culture available to collections is covered. Tibetan history is integrated easily into the text as is Buddhist thought. Buddhism is placed historically and culturally in relation to indigenous influences and neighboring cultures, past and present. Traditions and schools are presented clearly and thoughtfully. For an introduction to Tibetan art, this is THE book. It is a supporting text, a springboard to better understanding the exhibition books.



3. My main disappointment with this book is that "Art of Tibet" really turns out to mean "Buddhist Art of Tibet". Perhaps one page is spent addressing the art and culture of Tibet prior to the introduction of Buddhism. This is a very brief survey book good to have as a reference for the most well-known pieces but not able to stand alone if you need more detail. I would recommend it as an introductory book, and advise seeking others if the topic interests you.

3 comments about Chagall Cards: 24 Ready-to-Mail Cards (Card Books).

1. I realize that they are postcards, but I don't think I am going to be able to send them to anyone. I love the artwork too much. The colors aren't quite true to the actual pieces, but I am sure it was mass-produced. Other than that, these are beautiful miniatures of the real thing.



2. I realize that they are postcards, but I don't think I am going to be able to send them to anyone. I lvoe the artwork too much. The colors aren't quite true to the actual pieces, but I am sure it was mass-produced. Other than that, these are beautiful miniatures of the real thing.



3. I bought these cards so that I could have 'tiny works of art' to hang in my cubicle at work. I have people passing by all the time and asking about them. I studied art history in college, so any chance I get to teach someone a bit about art thrills me. Because these cards come in a book of 24, I also have a few cards left over to send.

   A good buy!

5 comments about Saul Steinberg: Illuminations.

1. I confess - up to now, I had written off Saul Steinberg as "that New York poster guy." Then I got this book at the library, and what an eye-opener! This is an artist with an amazingly strong vision and message, often bitingly satirical, with incredible figures and dazzling compositions, working in a surprising range of materials (pencil, ink, watercolor, crayon, and rubber-stamping - often on the same piece).
   I particularly delight in his wide-ranging "cartoon" people - playing style against style, turning expectations inside out, displaying a strong commentary on modern America with his demented cowboys, high-fashion women, and multiple little stamped inspectors offering a silent commentary to the various goings-on.



2. this is the biggest ilustrator of the world,you'l never been disappointing with this book, a great gift for desing artist!



3. This book sums up most of the best work of Saul Steinberg, and for those who like his graphics, an absolute "must have"



4. The marvelous Saul Steinberg exhibition at the Morgan Library in NYC is almost too much to take in even if one devotes an entire afternoon. Unlike some art exhibitions, Saul Steinberg's work is full of references and verbal ques that make ones brain fire on all cylinders simlutaneously. That can be exhilarating, but also exhausting. Saul Steinberg, the book, allows one to take in the artists's work in smaller bites: indeed, you can dip into the book at any page and be well fed. Don't miss the exhibition. But then, make sure you get the book.



5. First, I must confess that I am predisposed to enjoying this book. I love everything about the man and his work. Over the past several years I've acquired fourteen volumes of Steinberg's art as well as other printed pieces. Before the internet this would have been almost impossible and very costly. My earliest recollection of art I had strong feelings about goes back to the late 1940's when I saw a series of drawings by Saul Steinberg in The New Yorker.
   
   That being said, this catalog is one of the finest volumes of his work to date. It is a generously sized book at 10 x 12 inches, hardcover and 288 pages. It is printed on a matte coated paper which means the reproductions are excellent. The book is very well thought out. It begins with two illustrated essays. They are followed by the catalogue of the exhibition. This is followed by notes, chronologies and other information which illuminates Mr. Steinberg's career.
   
   It is a very well designed book. The type choices and page formats make it quite easy to actually read. This is not always the case since the advent of computer composition. The catalogue section gives each work of art a two-page spread. The title, pictorial information and a brief commentary are on the left facing page and a reproduction is on the right facing page. The illustrations are large and accurate to the originals. For some art works there are extra illustrations below the commentary on the left facing page.
   
   If you are intrigued about this artist, Saul Steinberg ILLUMINATIONS, is a must for your library. To round out your collection, consider purchasing STEINBERG AT THE NEW YORKER which was recently published and should still be available. If you are interested in seeing the actual exhibition, you should be able to find information online at the Saul Steinberg Foundation website.

5 comments about Organon of the Medical Art.

1. As a graduate of a four year homeopathic post graduate school I can tell you no other book is more often reread by the well trained homeopath than the Organon of Medicine by homeopathy's founder and furturistic thinker: Dr. Samuel Hahnemann. MANY are the translations I have struggled through. Organon of the Medical Arts is THE translation to place between your hands in order to practice classical homeopathy as it was intended. This book is so well translated from German, so thorough, so DIGESTABLE that there is much to apply with much less struggle to Understand.
   Every serious student of homeopathy and every practioner will come to own this translation. Every mind, healthy enough to be Open will too!



2. Like many, I've read The Organon before, but usually came away from each aphorism with some befuddlement. The Decker translation, with Dr. O'Reilly's editing and annotations, really opens the door for me to a deeper understanding of Hahnemann and homeopathy itself. The introduction, notes, glosses, and other aids make this the best English version, in my opinion. As Dr. Hahnemann was reported to have said, this book should be read twice a year for the first fifty years, and then once annually thereafter!



3. I've had numerous health problems over the years that are somewhat off the beaten track, and as a result I ran across a practitioner of Heilkunst. This is their clinical bible. When I found this practitioner unwilling to reveal exactly what it was they were supplying in the way of a remedy, unlike other practitioners of natural medicine who will tell you what supplements to take and what you are doing wrong, I got this book and decided to see what was going on. After going through it, I am glad I decided not to pursue this form of treatment.
   
   The book is interesting from a historical perspective. The real author of the contents of the Organon, Samuel Hahnemann, had some real points of contention with traditional (allopathic) medicine as it was practiced in 1800, and rightly so. Medicine was more likely to harm you than help you as the germ theory of infectious disease had not even yet developed. Hospitals were a place of supervised death rather than a place where scientifically proven diagnostic methods were used to determine treatments and actually cure people. Hahnemann's resulting methods look very odd today in the face of much improved scientific knowledge, but in 1800 they made as much sense as what traditional doctors were doing. Probably the most interesting of Hahnemann's theories is that on the miasm. Hahnemann believed, and taught in this book that there are three "miasms" that are the cause of disease in all people and thus must be rooted out to make an ill person well.
   
   In the last one hundred years, science has caused great strides in modern medicine, and doctors can now adequately explain and treat diseases in ways that were impossible with the crude information and techniques available before. Thus, there was a oorresponding decline in th popularity of the homeopathic method. Homeopathy still exists, though, and probably always will in some form, because Hahnemann's approach requires the practitioner to get close to the patient, to listen to him/her, and to design custom mysterious "remedies". This warm friendly approach to healing seems appealing, especially if you have an oddball combination of symptoms that can't be solved in 10 minutes by an HMO physician who pretends to listen to you as he/she scribbles out a prescription and hastily goes on to the next patient. Even if the homeopathic practitioner can't fix you, at least they listen! Thus, I enjoyed reading this book to see what state medical science was in 200 years ago, but I see no scientific method worthy of giving the methods described in this book a try if you want reliable, real results.



4. After years of struggling with other translations of the Organon finally one that is a pleasure to read! The ability of Mr Decker to illuminate Hahnemann's brilliance is genius in and of itself! Thank you Wenda Brewster O'Reilly....Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!



5. The Organon is essentially the "bible" of homeopathy. Although it was written nearly 200 years ago, it still defines what homeopathy is and what homeopathic practice is all about. That's why the Organon is required reading for all serious students of homeopathy, and most practitioners refer to it on a regular basis as well.
   
   O'Reilly's translation of the Organon is the best and most accessible of them all. It brings the book to life! All of the older translations have pretty much been relegated to the backburner since this one came out. If you are seriously interested in homeopathy, this book is a must-have. I refer to it on a regular basis in my own work.