5 comments about The Best of Brochure Design .07.

1. I bought this book to keep for myself, after borrowing a copy from my local library and exhausting my renewal opportunties. It is basically a gallery of highly professional brochure designs, beautifully presented with a strong emphasis on layout. Of particular value, from my perspective, was the inclusion of software used in producing most of the brochure designs. It is an excellent resource for any one interested in graphic art and digital design and a great book to keep for inspiration and frequent reference.



2. This is an extremely useful design reference for art directors/graphic designers. Although I do have to admit that it isn't as well rounded as I thought it would be. I have to agree with one of the other reviewers about designs that are more organic or traditional being omitted. However, for all those who are need reference for modern and contemporary design for brochures, you need look no further.



3. very good book about graphic design and in particulary about brochure.
   You can find very good and inspiring ideas.



4. This book features virtually no organic styles or traditional layouts. I felt the designs were very corporate, cold and modern Euro-looking, which I find has limited application for inspiring the type of design work I do (luxury goods branding and design). I did go through the book very thoroughly.
   
   If you're looking for a broad range of styles (traditional and organic styles included) this isn't the book for you.
   
   In general, Wilson Harvey books are great, but usually follow the above pattern.



5. If you're expecting the equivalent of a text book telling you how to be a graphic designer, you bought the wrong book. And truthfully, I doubt that book exists. This book is the gorgeous and features the best informative graphic design (brochures) in the world. A must-have for every graphic designer.

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 200 Projects to Strengthen Your Art Skills: For Aspiring Art Students (Aspire).

1. I purchased this book a month ago looking for inspiration to fuel my painting need and that is exactly what I found.
   
   I wanted to dive into the book before I gave any feedback on it, so right now I've finished over 20 projects and I have to admit, without the recommendations from this book I wouldn't have gotten as far as I have in my portfolio for this upcoming school year. Even just getting started on this book I can see my art has take on a new, modern, poppy form while still holding onto the fundamentals that I've learned over the years.
   
   "200 Projects..." wasn't intended to show you in detail exactly how to accomplish a project with each brush stroke laid out for you. It gives you a colorful yet challenging idea with practical tips and techniques and lets you just tackle the project in your own way to help you develop your own style. This is very helpful in the modern art world since fresh new perspectives are always needed.
   
   The book covers a incredible range of mediums to use from conventional watercolor, acrylic and oil paints to fabrics, mosaic materials, and even touches on photography; letting pallet blossom with new flavors to enjoy.
   
   If your and aspiring artist working on building a portfolio, looking for new inspirations, experimenting with different mediums and techniques, or just want to take your work to the next level I would suggest this getting this book right now! I wish i had this book years ago.

5 comments about Japanese Tattooing Now!: Memory And Transition, Classic Horimono To The New One Point Style.

1. If your looking at getting a Japanese style tattoo but want to do research on the culture first this book is a must have! I bought several Asian history/tattoo books to learn the history first and this was one of the most helpful book! It goes from the tradtional japanese tattoos to the new Western style Japanese tattoos



2. Great book. I was surprised by the depth of the content. It turned out to be more than just a picture book of Japanese tattoos, which was really all I'd expected. It's full of terrific photos, but also provides a lot of information on the tattoo artists and the tattooing sub-culture in modern Japan. Anyone into tattooing, Asian art, or Japanese culture would love this book.



3. Beautiful tattoos in both eastern and western styles, done by Japanese artists. If Mike puts his name on a book, you can pretty much trust that its going to be a winner.



4. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN JAPANESE TATTOOS THIS IS THE BOOK FOR YOU. GREAT PICTURES AND VERY INTERESTING TEXT.



5. This is a terrific book full of great Japanese tattoos. There are tons and tons of photos and cool ideas. If you are thinking about getting a tattoo and like classic images, this is well worth it.

5 comments about Silversmithing (Jewelry Crafts).

1. The book is great. It explains alot of techniques and details most of the other books on the subject don't give.



2. you dont find these books any more. Old traditional silversmithing is in extinction and moreso are books being written on this subject in a fully descriptive manner. This silversmithing compendium rigorously explains each process involved from botttom to top taking full notice of every detail and possible situation. This means that you dont need to take things for granted or fill blanks by using your imagination or common sense, since all processes are outlined extensively. This is a technical book in the most full extention of its meaning. For any experienced silversmith it will bring to light concepts and facts that are not always fully understood nowadays, such as the crystaline behaviour of metals being raised or formed, the extense variety of stakes and the possible uses for them, etc. Even thogh some of the traditional processes are too time consuming or obsolete given the technology involved in metalsmithing nowadays, the information contained in this fabulously written book is of essential importance for any silversmith or aspiring metalsmith.



3. Some great information in here... Not a lot about jewelry, however. Great for learning use of tools, polishing, etc. More geared towards large items like silver bowls and utensils. All black and white, maybe not as appealing as full color photos. Nice reference book.



4. The 3 stars represent disappointment on applicabiity, not the quality of the book. I did find some useful instruction which will apply to my size scale, like bending flat strips, raising, tensioning and a few other things, but if you are looking for something on the wear scale, this ain't it unless you want to do really tiny teapots and bowls.



5. Good book, good photos and explanations. Nothing takes the place of a good teacher but this is worth the read.

1 comments about Women Impressionists.

1. When it comes to research into art history it is lamentable that the accomplishments of male artists are over-represented in scholarly publications and that those of women artists are by and large glossed over or just plain ignored. This failing of traditionally conservative male art historians to address this imbalance is slowly being reevaluated and corrected. A fascinating task, it is being carried out by a new generation of scholars and authors (mainly female) who are giving a revealing and inclusive perspective on the history of Western art. The story of the French Impressionist movement is no different, the names of male artists like Renoir, Degas, Sisely, Manet, Monet and Pissaro are well known around the world and their vividly painted canvases are represented in significant international art galleries. But when it comes to the women Impressionists who painted alongside their male peers, history is surprisingly silent and there is a lack of awareness of their unique place in early modern art. There is an unspoken consensus amongst some academics that these women artists were not quite as talented as their male colleagues, and that there certainly were no creative geniuses amongst their number. Based on a travelling exhibition, this well researched volume aims to improve the art loving publics knowledge and understanding of these pioneering women artists who struggled against restrictive social conventions and entrenched misogyny to achieve their painterly visions of the world around them.
   
   In the 19th century and well into the 20th century women were solely expected to fulfill the complimentary roles of motherhood and obedient housewife. The limited work available to them was primarily of the menial or nurturing kind: as governess, nannies, teachers, maids, nurses or midwives. When the prospect of marriage loomed women were dutifully expected to give up their jobs, and so their fragile sense of independence. Thus when a woman wished to pursue a career (such as painting) they invariably had to forgo almost any prospect of starting a family and having a "respectable" life as a devoted wife and mother. Throughout Western art history up until the Impressionist era women were barred from attending most art schools for some absurdly prudish and moralistic reasons. When women were allowed the privilege of studying alongside men, there was a hidebound social etiquette in place to "protect" them from anything that may have affronted their delicate sensibilities. This stiflingly Victorian attitude discouraged many women from pursuing art in a professional manner; sadly relegating them to the margins of the art scene... as amateurs. Still, there was a small yet noteworthy number of women who chose to become professional (and successful) artists in this oppressive environment. Undaunted they resolutely studied and practiced their craft against almost all odds, and eventually won the begrudging respect of their male peers.
   
   This timely book focuses on the handful of female artists who belonged in the French Impressionist art circle and includes beautiful examples of their oil paintings, pastels, watercolors, sketches and etchings, many in full and vibrant colour. The likes of Bertha Morisot, Eva Gonzales, Marie Bracquemond and the American Mary Cassatt are all included and due attention is given to each artist. The contribution of these four women to this revolutionary movement has been largely (but not entirely) omitted from the annals of art history, and is indicative of a wider cultural bias against the accomplishments of women in all walks of life. It is a shame that this wonderful book does not have more of an international scope, for I'm sure that in the 19th century there were many women Impressionists around the developed world whose names and creative oeuvres have been painted out of official histories of art. This engaging book with its lucid essays will open your eyes to the artistic legacy of these gifted yet undervalued women artists, and its publication will be most welcome by those interested in women's issues. If like me you admire and appreciate the Impressionists with their fresh and progressive approach to painting, Women Impressionists will be a fine addition to your library.

1 comments about Colour Etching (Printmaking Handbooks (PH)).

1. This modest-sized handbook is packed with useful tips for intaglio color printing. You will find detailed information about paper, inks, wiping, and edition handling beyond most general printmaking books. I have an extensive collection of printmaking guide books, yet found myself underlining and starring numerous technical tidbits unique to this book. Particularly useful is the treatment of photopolymer methods in addition to the expected coverage of traditional acid etching approaches. Finally, one gets the occasional "bon mot" such as this:
   "..there is no mystery to etching but plenty of magic."

3 comments about Bernini (Penguin Art and Architecture).

1. The content i.e details of Bernini's sculpture is very interesting to know.
   The author makes us look at the sculptures in an expert way by mentioning things like - one sculpture having an inaccurate centre of gravity. The concept of one medium used to look like the other being immoral was new to me.
   And just one sentence that I needed to know, about how Bernini viewed his work -' he considered most of his works far inferior to the Beauty that he knew and conceived in his mind'. Bernini's work and his interest in it seems like 'progressive improvement'. So It was interesting to know that he was inspired in a way that didnt stop at one work or with the greater beauty that he saw, he never seems to have been at loss for inspiration.
   My favourite is Cornaro Chapel.



2. Hibbard is one of the world's most respected and informed historians of sculpture. And he's a good writer too. That sums up my review. Enjoy the reading and the wonderful photographs!!!



3. I love this book! I've never explored any art history books before, but this was a great first experience. Hibbard has a gift for explaining all of the details of Bernini's works, without bombarding you with unknown lingo or being long-winded. I would highly recommend this book, especially if you plan on going to Italy someday.

5 comments about How to Keep a Sketchbook Journal.

1. I like both the layout and the pictures in the book. I found it very inspiring and a good addition to my sketch library.



2. This book not only has great ideas for sketchbook journals, but wonderful detailed lessons on pen & ink work and watercolor techniques. I wouldn't say it was directed at beginning artists, thought. This is more geared to drawing & painting than actual journaling.



3. I got this book for Christmas and it was a rather nice gift. The copy that was sent to me was a bit imperfect on the cover but I was much pleased with the content. The author presents good tips on how to choose a journal type, the right medium for you and adequate tools, type of drawing, how to draw basic forms and more sophisticated images, what details you should write on your journal, etc.
   
   The images in the book are very nice and they vary in sophistication so they are not intimidating. Even if you really don't know how to draw, there are very nice ideas on how to start, for example use plant leaves to make prints and add details with pencils, paints, etc. Another great thing is that the author advises you to research the subjects of your drawings further, instead of just drawing them.
   
   Overall, I was rather pleased. Now, if only this book would come alive and send me out the door...



4. Really, this book is good. But to tell you the truth, there's not
   much of a 'journal' enthusiasm than I wanted. If you're looking
   for how to draw, what you need type of book, than this will be
   a good book for you. I recommend Pencil Dancing or Making Pearls.



5. This is more of a "how to draw and paint" book than about keeping a journal. It is packed with plenty of drawings in mixed media from pencil to pen to watercolor and a blend of all of them.

   I must say the book is attractive. The format is like a wider-than-long sketchbook, bound attractively with a wide hessian cloth band. But the drawings didn't do anything for me most of the time, though the butterflies were nicely done. There is a very handy schematic for sewing a field drawing and painting carryall to carry your book and implements with you in the field. That was a nice touch.

   I already have a library of art instruction books, and that wasn't what I expected from the title. This book just doesn't have enough "journal" content for me, nor do I like the style of drawings so this isn't my cup of tea. However, you might like the style and the art lessons, so your opinion may differ completely from mine.

1 comments about Material Journeys: Collecting African And Oceanic Art, 1945-2000.

1. MATERIAL JOURNEYS is a strong pick for any college-level art library serious about African or Oceanic art representations. This catalogue of holdings comes from the Genevieve McMillan Collection and supplements a study of how African and oceanic arts were brought to Europe with the items in the McMillan Collection, using the collection as a foundation for examining collection strategies as a whole. Any interested in museum holdings, the arts, and African and Oceanic arts in particular will find it a powerful survey embracing many modern art debates, from issues of authenticity to the social, political and commercial forces underlying holding choices.
   
   Diane C. Donovan
   California Bookwatch