4 comments about The Metropolitan Museum of Art Guide Revised Edition.

1. Like the Louvre in Paris, the Metropolitan Museum is a fabulously wealthy storehouse of incalculable value, "a living encyclopedia of world art. Every culture from every part of the world - from Florence to Thebes to Papua New Guinea - from the earliest times to the present and in every medium", "frequently at the highest levels of quality and invention", is represented. Also like the Louvre, its holdings are immense - "more than three million works of art, of which several hundred thousand are on view."
   
   The guide, organized in the same fashion as the museum, suffers only by its inability to represent the museum completely. Choices had to be made. How incredible is it that the museum holds thirty paintings by Monet and the editors of the guide were forced to choose only four? How many museums in the world could lay claim to having five paintings by an artist as illustrious as Vermeer and yet be limited to including only three in their guide?
   
   Having been fortunate enough to indulge in a recent visit to the museum, I can tell you that all five works by Vermeer and all thirty by Monet were as magnificent as one might imagine. The guide (a wonderful way to prepare in advance for any upcoming visit) will serve as a memorable souvenir and the descriptive text written by the curatorial staff of the museum will serve to elucidate the history and context of the individual pieces of art that were chosen to best represent the museum as a whole.
   
   Highly recommended as a way of enjoying the world's art even if you think you will never be in a position to enjoy the visit in person.
   
   Paul Weiss



2. This guide to the Metropolitan Museum of Art helped me to plan what I wanted to see in that museum, and to learn beforehand about many of the works of art I was going to find there (for example European paintings, Egyptian, Greek and Roman Art, etc...). What is more, this book allowed me to read about some paintings and sculptures I didn't have time to see, even though I would have loved to be able to do so (too many beautiful things to see, to little time). Well, I suppose next time I will just have to start by the 2nd floor!.
   
   I think you will appreciate the beautiful color illustrations, and the opportunity to plan ahead of your trip and not in a hurry what you want to see first. This is not only the kind of book that helps you to prepare for a visit and to enjoy it, but also a souvenir you will treasure after returning from your holidays. Recommended!
   
   Belen Alcat



3. Phillipe de Montebello is one of the top museum directors in the world, thus he runs America's greatest museum. This guide is perfect, it allows you to get a feel for this singular museum and its extensive, to say the least, collection. So much is packed into this guide, every area of this vast collection is hit upon, and most importantly it helps you navigate this HUGE building, if you are going to tackle this emmense museum then you MUST have his guide, it really helps you make the most of your visit. It is well worth the investment, I advise getting it well before you go to the museum and read it thoroughly, it will make your trip so much more enjoyable and worthwhile I assure you..it's like taking the museum director with you..in your back pocket...though at five hundred pages you may need a uh, large back pocket...at anyrate it's easier that putting Phillipe in there, verdad?



4. Before committing a couple of days to museum hopping while in New York City, a word to the wise: this book is a must for understanding the scope of the collection of the paintings, drawings, sculpture, architectural renderings, relics - everything that makes the Metropolitan Museum one of the most 'compleat' collections in the world.
   
   Yes, the book does show outlines of the museum's layout to facilitate the enjoyment of the various sections. But more important than that, this is a compendium of examples of some of the finest art in collection. The reproductions are excellent with all of the data needed to give a brisk brush up on not only the work illustrated but the timeframe incidentals that make the Metropolitan such a user friendly museum.
   
   Whether for the personal library or for the perfect gift for art lovers, 'The Metropolitan Museum of Art Guide' in this revised form is highly recommended. Grady Harp, November 05

2 comments about Salons and Spas: The Architechure of Beauty.

1. This beautiful book is written by an architect. This is important when looking for more than just nice SPA photos. Not only she (the writer) very carefully chooses modern SPA environments, she also presents them in a whole-space manner, attaching simple but effective professional drawings.
   Besides, she verbally offers a brief, deeper look in the transition of city-SPAs: from indifferent beauty and relax centers to the focus of modern Architecture.
   This professional background does not however deprive the book of a rather introductory character, combining modern Architecture with simple description.
   As a member of a now in-design city-SPA in South-East Europe, I and the designing architect found in the book precious modern inspirations.
   The writer (she lives in New York) provided a modern work going enough beyond the surface, and counting among the few really helpful on the subject.



2. I'm in the process of building a second location (salonspa) and this book had the most amazing pictures and the visual of the blueprints gave me such a different perspective of things that I had not even thought about. I love this book it was well worth the price.

3 comments about Bernini.

1. sculptor. architect. child prodigy... Bernini's real name was Michaelangelo, but he hid the fact so that his own work would stand apart from that of the greatest sculptor of all time. Here is a tribute to a man who fufilled a great potential to create beauty in this world. The Galleria Borghese in Rome will attest to this. A wonderful volume about a truly incredible talent.



2. Wittkower has created a book that is easily enjoyable for those familiar of Bernini, or those starting to learn about art/archetecture of the Baroque. I highly reccommend this book to anyone remotely interested in this period, as the photos are clear and the explanations are not filled with jargon a lay person could not understand. bravo.



3. Wittkower's work is simply stated an artistic anthology of the achievements and life of the chief architect of the Roman Baroque. His perseptive commentary and pertinent factual information are extremely useful to all who attempt to comprehend the complex messages behind all of Bernini's work. While the author stays committed to rendering the artist as a sculptor and architect, one wishes that Wittkower would delve more into the environment, particularly political and religious movements, that continually serve as an impetus and background to Bernini's chef d'oeuvres. Regardless, Wittkower's inclusion of both color and detailed black and white plates allow the viewer to observe the Baroque master's works in their appropriate light.

5 comments about Silversmithing (Jewelry Crafts).

1. 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.



2. 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.



3. 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.



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



5. There is little that can be added to what the other reviewers have already said in terms of the quality of the information and material in this very good book. The high point for me is the large amount of black and white photos, all of perfect lighting and quality, that accompany the text. If, like me, you are a novice but are learning the hard way without someone to personally guide you then these will be a god send compared with the other high quality books out there that lack them.
   As to the book itself the authors have broken it into six main sections:
   1. Introduction to Silversmithing
   2. Basic Treatments
   3. Basic Tools and their uses
   4. General Procedures
   5. Special Procedures
   6. Projects
   From my own point of view the Projects section is the best because we get to see these very able men firstly "Sink a Bowl" then they "Sink a Plate and Tray". Next they "Raise a Bowl without crimping" and then one with crimping. They then raise a "Creamer with Self-Spout". "Construct a Box", "Forge some Flatware", "Forge a Punchbowl Ladle" and finish with "Stretching a Gravy Boat". The accompanying photos show the tools for each item and we get almost a complete set of photos showing the stages from start to finish.
   The items they manufacture have little decoration which is not required due to their design. So whilst there is a section on Chasing and Repoussé work it is not as extensive as in some of the other books out there. However it gives the basics to start from. If someone is looking for a more exhaustive treatment of that subject then they would be better to consult "Metal Techniques for Craftsmen" by Oppi Untracht. Anyway that is really a side issue and does not detract from what is a brilliantly clear exposition of a skill and art form which is disappearing in the age of mass production. Indeed they state their desire in the preface to the book to pass on to an interested new generation that which is fast being forgotten. Luckily for us they have helped us by doing such an outstanding job.
   Finegold and Seitz round the book out with some conversion charts and add some charts relating to gauges, weights and tempering temperatures.
   I highly recommend as others have that you do not go without a copy.

4 comments about Affirmations for Artists.

1. I believe that making affirmations really help us to achieve our creative goals. Eric Maisel's book is full of affirmations that really work if we work them! I make this book part of my daily reading, and it makes every day start on a positive note.



2. Maisel is one of my favorite authors writing for artists. As in his other books, he shows here great sensitivity to artists' challenges. In his typical style, he doesn't pull punches with these affirmations -- it's clear an artist will never be fulfilled unless s/he gets up and WORKS. These affirmations support that process, without gluing up the works with the mystical overtones (mumbo-jumbo?) often associated with affirmations.

   Arranged alphabetically by subject (Failure, Success, Fear, Anxiety, Inspiration, Day Jobs, Depression, Joy, etc.), each page is devoted to one subject. The page includes quotes from famous artists, a short paragraph to consider, and an affirmation to overcome the challenges and reinforce the positives.

   One thing I stumble on each time I use this book is the wordiness of the affirmations. These aren't pithy sayings to be glanced at and remembered all day. Most are fairly involved paragraphs in their own right (On Inspiration: "I believe I create for myself when I honor my artist's nature and diligently practice my craft. I will work whether I feel inspired or not: I know that if I labor with an open heart and an open mind, inspiration will come. I am ready to create it, receive it, and be swept away by it."). I tend to shorten them, pulling out just those points that resonate with me ("I honor my artist's nature and embrace inspiration"). This can be an advantage, though, since it means there can be different affirmations for each person or each situation. It also involves the artist in the creation of the affirmation, making each one uniquely that person's.

   Highly recommended for living more fully with your artistic self, or as a gift for the artist in your life.




3. This book is crammed with affirmations related to the fears and horrors every artist ends up going through at some point. Whereas I am not too keen in affirmations, I found Mr Maisel's words extremely conforting and intelligent. Although the affirmations are inspiring, this is a book with practical advice as well, unlike so many others that adress similar questions. It also contains a lot of quotations from famous artists who apparently went through similar ordeals. "Affirmations for artists" adresses many different kinds of disciplines and is definitely a great gift for an artistically inclined person. If it ever gets translated into Spanish I'm definitely giving it out to my friends.



4. Don't be fooled by the deceptively simple title. Affirmations for Artists is a smart, practical and irreverent toolkit for deepening your creativity and enhancing your life. Unlike most of the annoyingly ethereal affirmation books I've read, this one yanks affirmations down to earth, tackles misconceptions and pitfalls, and demonstrates how to use affirmations effectively.

   The author cuts straight to the heart of the problems artists of all stripes wrestle with and serves up realistic strategies for problem solving. Crafted with wit, grace and no-nonsense compassion, Affirmations for Artists is a generous and elegant book.

5 comments about The Critique Handbook.

1. Way Cool! Proud to boast about this great project! Kendall Buster and Paula Crawford have tackled a very difficult and taboo subject with wit and wisdon, keen insight and thoughtfulness that transforms the culture of studio art education into a clear discussion of the artistry of creative presentation and all of the thinking, doing, and planning that support it. The authors unravel a mystery for art students to ingest that can only have positive impact on their the work. Artists who are eager for depth, breadth, and better ability to plan and present their ideas to others - this is a must read! The content is completely applicable to all art discipline areas. From painting to sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, design, photography - it cuts across all areas of the visual arts and binds the conceptual with the end product in an engaging discussion of the ways and means of creative evidence, philosophy, and discussion. An excellent required and affordable text for studio classes across the board! Harold Linton, Chair Art & Visual Technology, George Mason University.



2. I am an adjunct photography professor at a private college. This book was used as a text for a joint workshop on The Critique for the art department of our school and another local college. Given the complexity of the subject matter, this book does a good job of covering the basics of an art school critique. I particularly appreciated the discussion regarding the role of faculty and the personal baggage we sometimes forget we can bring to the party. It's impossible to cover all the possible permutations of The Critique, but this book does a fine job of highlighting the peculiarities of several art disciplines and the details that should be addressed. It gives you a springboard to make the conversion even if your discipline isn't specifically covered.
   
   If you teach art or hold critiques in your class, I believe you will find this book very helpful.
   
   My only quibble is the type size for my aging eyes. Don't be fooled by the physical size of this book. It may be compact but it makes up for it with density.



3. This is a well-written, insightful and important manual that every professor, teacher, curator, gallery owner, student and professional artist should have on their bookshelf. It IS extremely expensive, but worth every single dime. There is a million bucks worth of info between its covers! Run and place your order...I'm glad I did!



4. This book is very specific about how to conduct a critique and how to survive one without becoming emotionally involved. Although it only discusses the traditional fine arts,i.e. painting and sculpture, the techniques involved can be easily adapted to othere less trasditional forms of art, i.e. fiber art or photography. A very good book.



5. What a fantastic idea! How is it that something as essential and ubiquitous as the studio critique had not been examined in this way before? This book takes on the task brilliantly. "The Critique Handbook" is a wonderful mixture of how-to manual, theoretical analysis, irreverent debunker and basic gameplan. The authors' analysis of how to make the best use of the critique applies both to those giving the critique as well as to those receiving them. While students will find the book quite useful in learning how to negotiate the critique and find the best uses for the information presented to them there, professors and other professionals will also find much to think about in the authors' analysis of what makes a critique helpful and harmful. And, delightfully, the authors are not afraid to take on the sacred cows of the profession. Any art professor will appreciate the witty and deadly portraits of their colleagues sketched by Buster and Crawford in their analysis of the types that can be found in the artist's studio.

No comments about Smart About Art: Pierre-Auguste Renoir: Paintings That Smile (Smart About Art).

5 comments about Ed Emberley's Big Green Drawing Book (Ed Emberley's Big...).

1. I have bought several Ed Emberley books for my 4 kids. They are all good. People are always amazed at how well my kids can draw. You can learn to draw, too! Like most activities, drawing is only part natural talent, part practice and part taking lessons. These books provide those lessons.



2. Way back in the 80's I used to grab this book from our small, quaint library at Steeple Valley Middle School. I renewed the book frequently and would have a mild heart attack when it wasn't available in the library for me to check out.
   
   Edward Emberley, among other artists, put me on the course to my semi-successful cartooning career. In hopes of passing on the cartooning torch, I'm purchasing these books for my two nieces so they can continue to create vast worlds and numerous creatures on a simple notebook.



3. I spent hours creating entire worlds based on these books. They are a wonderful introduction to basic drawing skills and are FUN!!!



4. These books are the greatest. I own all of the Emberly books. They are fun for adults and kids alike. You are never too old or young to learn to draw. This book will make you the most hip doodler in school or at work. Ed makes it really easy!
   This book is from a series of 4 books from Emberly are the easiest books on drawing there are, period. Anyone young or old can learn to draw some great critters and vehicles from these books. ANYONE! All of his Big Color books are great, (They are a series, each named after a color). This one is famous for the easy way it shows you how to draw step by step a great big green dragon, but it is simple when you do it his way. This book includes a number of fun ideas including Frankenstein, sailboat and trees. He even shows you how to make yours unique rather than a copy of his drawings. You can be the doodle hero of your classroom or office after using this book. He does it simply using very simple steps, lines, and basic shapes to start you off. My favorite in the series would be the Purple Book, but they are all good.
   If you want to move up from here and learn the terminology of what you are doing, and really become an accomplished artist, the next step after these are the terrific books by "Jack Hamm". If you just want to have some fun, get this book!



5. My students love these books. The drawings are simple and easy to follow. Teachers will find it easy to use this book for short directed drawing lessons.

5 comments about The Complete Color Harmony: Expert Color Information for Professional Color Results (Color Harmony).

1. If you are not a designer, and have little background in color theory then I would highly recommend this book.
   
   I needed to design a book cover and was getting my CMYK's confused with my Pantone's and RGB's.
   
   It is an easy read with many full color examples, plus the CMYK values.
   
   You can use the color patterns as a template for your own projects (work smarter not harder).
   
   A worthwhile addition to my marketing collection.
   
   Cheers!



2. I am designing a website and wanted a solid grounding in color theory, having found that books in the computer genre do not cover this topic well.
   
   This book hit the mark, it provided me with 1) a basic grounding in color theory and the color wheel, 2) a no-nonsense, practical and thorough overview on the psychology of color, 3) a large range of categorized sample color combinations.
   
   This book only provides the CMYK formula for its color swatches, and not the RGB formula. The book's theoretical sections also do not go into sufficient detail to explain the differences between the two formulations. This is not too-big-a problem as there are color formula conversion sites available on the web. This is the only reason why I have deducted one star. Perhaps a little unfair as computer nerds are not the book's target audience. I would give 4.5 stars in an ideal world.
   
   I highly recommend this book if you are after a solid, practical and not too academic approach to color theory



3. Great book! Lot's of beautiful colors with CMYK values so that you can replicate them yourself.



4. I have enjoyed the book. Although I thought it would be more useful in terms of designing graphics arts, not my house. This book provides insight to color theory based on emotions and feelings when walking into a room; therefore, I would suggest this book for those looking to do some interior decorating and designing; not necessarily for graphic arts.



5. I buy this book because the title is "The COMPLETE Color Harmony". There are so many other books about color on the shelf, but the word 'COMPLETE' really hit me. Altough i'm working in the design field but i found myself need more resources to this main subject, color harmony.
   
   This book is great, it gives me new ideas of color harmony. I often use it for my projects. What i liked about this book is that they put 'Moods & Color' section in it. Powerful, rich, romantic, vital, earthy, friendly, soft, welcoming, etc....with other colours combinations too. 'The Psychology of color' also a great one too along with the 'Process color convertions chart'. This book is absolutely complete!

4 comments about Ed Emberley's Big Orange Drawing Book (Ed Emberley's Big...).

1. All of Emberley's books are wonderful. The Big Orange Drawing book specializes in things that are orange so a lot of it is Halloween themed. I loved working through these books as a child and still have some of the Halloween decorations I made from this book.



2. This book is from a series of 4 books from Emberly are the easiest books on drawing there are, period. Anyone young or old can learn to draw some great critters and vehicles from these books. ANYONE! These are a great first step. All of his Big Color books are great, (They are a series, each named after a color). Famous for the easy way it shows you how to draw step by step, what appears to be a complex Haunted House, but it is simple when you do it his way. This book includes a number of fun ideas including robots, tiger, military ships, Halloween holiday drawings, and more. He even shows you how to make yours unique rather than a copy of his drawings. You can be the doodle hero of your classroom or office after using this book. He does it simply using very simple steps, lines, and basic shapes to start you off. My favorite in the series would be the Purple Book, because I am partial to the pirate ship instructions.

   If you want to move up from here and learn the terminology of what you are doing, and really become an accomplished artist, the next step after these are the terrific books by "Jack Hamm".

   If you just want to have some fun, get this book!




3. I am a 21 year-old artist. I forgot all about Ed Emberley until a couple of weeks ago. Emberley was my first artistic inspiration and I developed an interest in art through the direction of his variety of juvenile instructional books. I highly recommend these books to any children who express an interest in art. His series of books are EXTREMELY simply to understand and children at any age can grasp his artistic expertise.



4. Believe it or not children's drawings end up looking much like Ed Emberley's. Line by line and shape by shape the Halloween related objects take form. Our other family favorite was Emberley's "Big Red Drawing Book". Absolutely love these books!