1 comments about The Gargoyle Book: 572 Examples from Gothic Architecture.

1. BOOHOO...
   'The Gargoyle Book: 572 Examples from Gothic Architecture'
   A very misleading title!!!
   
   When I pre-ordered this book I was hoping for a brand new publication with 200+ pages on gargoyles and 572 illustrations of gargoyles in architecture.
   BOOHOO... This book isn't new, it isn't all about gargoyles and it isn't all about architecture. So what is it about?
   Well... it's about nothing really.
   It's just a collection of old black and white photographs of French gothic sculptures -in stone and wood-.
   
   QUOTE: This 2006 edition by Dover Publications is an unabridged republication of the work originally published in 1930 by the Architectural Book Publishing Co under the title 'Gargoyles,Chimeres and the Grotesque in French Gothic Sculpture'. END OF QUOTE.
   Now that's a better title.
   
   The book starts with eight and a half pages of introduction.
   Next are 204 pages with old black and white photographs, accompanied by VERY short descriptions which give us the name of the building, the name of the city and occasionally what it depicts or when the sculpture was made.
   At the end of the book there's a four and a half page bibliography.
   
   The photographs are divided into eight chapters:
   I: Symbolic Details (12 pages/38 photographs with descriptions such as: Bourges-(Cher) Sainte Marthe)
   II: Non-Symbolic Details (2 pages/8 photographs, example: Animals Drink Out of a Jar, Poitiers (Vienne) Oriental Motif)
   III: Tympanum Sculpture (8 pages/14 photographs, example: Reims (Marne) Devils - XIIIth Century)
   IV: Gargoyles(57 pages/153 photographs, unfortunately about a third of these are not gargoyles, but grotesques)
   V: Chimeres (36 pages/98 photographs, some of these show the same statues from a different angle)
   VI: Heads (25 pages/73 Photographs)
   VII: Capitals and Miscellaneous Compositions (18 pages/62 photographs)
   VIII: Woodwork (46 pages/125 photographs, the majority of these are misericordes)
   
   ---:
   On some of the pages the photographs are printed sideways, so you're constantly tilting your head or turning the book.
   There are up to four photographs on each page with fairly wide margins, so most photographs are rather small.
   The cameras and photographic materials available in 1930 didn't produce the quality of images that we are used to in modern times.
   
   +++:
   Loads of photographs (I've never seen so many misericordes in any other book).
   
   Who should NOT buy this book:
   .You like glossy colorful photographs that would look fab in a frame.
   .You want lots of info about how or why these sculptures are made.
   .You're looking for a coffee table book.
   .You want to know exactly where on/in the building the sculptures can be found.
   If this describes you: KEEP LOOKING. There are better books out there for you.
   
   Who might enjoy this book:
   .You don't mind old black and white photographs.
   .You're REALLY into misericordes, gargoyles, chimeres and anything else that the ancient French dreamed about.
   .You're not put off by the lack of information.
   If that is you: It's a cheap book with loads of pics, so why not GO FOR IT.
   
   Why three stars:
   I wanted to give only one star because the title is so misleading and the book is not really suitable for the average gargoyle fan.
   The second star is because the paperback quality is okay.
   I gave a third star because the book inspires me in my work as an animator.
   I nearly took the third star away because there are other books with better photographs.
   But I left the third star on because none of the other books have so many photographs.
   
   So why the big BOOHOO at the start of my review?
   Well... I already had the 1930 original edition.
   Am I going to throw this new paperback away?
   Hell no... It's good value for money.
   I can now look at the pics in this cheap reprint, fold corners over, splash ink and paint around while I'm working and still keep my original 1930 book in excellent condition.
   
   Now then... where's my paintbrush?

5 comments about Origami Omnibus: Paper Folding for Everybody.

1. This is essentially a reprint of the 1988 book with a new cover. That said, I have to admit that anyone who didn't purchase a copy of that volume at the time is indeed lucky to have the opportunity presented to them again in this book.
   
   Kasahara jumps the student right into some very elaborate models. Most are purely delightful. I am particularly impressed with the masks and plan on making some of them in large paper for wall decore for friends this Christmas. Many of the designs are presented in other books on the subject, but Kasahara frequently goes one better or beyond. The Persian cat is probably one of the nicest models of a cat I've found.
   
   One of the interesting things about this book is the author's marriage of origami to geometry and mathematics. The book has some of the most comprehensive discussions on the relationships of three dimensional geometric objects to one another that I've ever seen in an origami book. While I was more interested in the artist's rendering of new models and didn't get as deeply into the geometrics of the art, I have to admit, the discussions were very cogent and would be an asset to a math teacher.
   
   Probably the most magnificent of the book's presentations is one based precisely on the above topic. The author presents an ingenious box which opens out successively into smaller boxes that create a huge tableux of fall, winter, summer and spring, complete with animals, trees, boats, mountains and houses. How better to reveal the true volume of a cube than by this means!



2. This is a huge volume with a large variety of subjects presented. Going from memory, there are masks, dinosaurs, animals, boxes, modular polyhedrons, and more. It would be hard for one to leaf through this book and not find at least a few models that are "must-folds".

   This may not be the best book for beginners. I played around with origami a bit as a child and this is the first book I've ever bought. I've had a few problems following the more complex diagrams, but usually after a test fold (where I end up completely mangling the paper) I can re-do the project with little difficulty. There is little-to-no indication of the difficulty of models, e.g. they certainly aren't arranged by difficulty, but its simple enough to determine that a project with 30 steps will be much more difficult than a project with 8 steps.

   What I find especially inspiring in this volume is the author's scant text. He communicates the history and beauty of origami in a simple manner. His passion definitely shows through. I wouldn't have expected to develop such an appreciation from one volume. Folding has become a relaxing, meditative hobby for me, and I'd recommend this volume for anyone seeking the same.




3. Origami Omnibus has a wide spectrum of models, so everyone can enjoy this book. I like it because it has easy models, but also hard ones that I am still working on. It has a lot of modular origami, which is one category I enjoy. This book explains how geometry and origami are alike. I would recommend this book for anyone who enjoys origami.



4. Some of the folds are very difficult to understand, yes. However, with a little perseverence, many can be figured out. There's nothing quite like finishing an origami when you had to struggle through some difficult folds to do it. The few times a fold has me completely stymied, this book has such a wealth of material to choose from, it is always easy to set the paper aside and find another project, just as fascinating, hopefully more tractable. This book's greatest strength is its variety. In terms of subject matter, difficulty levels, and sheer number of fascinating forms, I have not yet seen a superior volume.



5. Near perfect. Nuff said. All idiots, please avoid. This is for high level folders only.

5 comments about Making Mosaics: Designs, Techniques & Projects.

1. A winner in all ways. This book is for the people who have done the little crafty bits and have not lost interest in favor of a new hobby of the month. It is for those who love the texture and reflectivity of this artform's materials and want to find out more.
   
   The introduction and history section compares well to some of the better books. There is not that much but it is a respectable amount for a book that deals with technique and design.
   
   Every book also has a tools and materials section and this one provides sufficient information for you to proceed without worrying if you are using the right adhesives or the right backing for your work. There is not much that one needs to add. This knowledge will provide a good foundation to build on. Explanations are clear and items pictured clearly.
   
   The more common techniques are covered from beginning to end with, in one case, 17 small pointed images showing you exactly how. There is also a section on sculptural forms which shows you how to mosaic onto things that are not flat. Many other artists' work is also beautifuly presented in this book showing the different applications for the techniques that are covered in that section of the book. Very inspiring! It makes you want to get up and get going!
   
   And when you do get going, there are 12 projects complete with templates and very concise intructions. They are all unique and there is something for everyone.
   
   The contributing artists section would be more useful if there email addresses or web sites. The glossery also contains all of 7 items and the index is only 2 columns on a half a page. This could have been more complete.
   
   This is a very good book for instruction, inspiration and beautiful pictures. An artist of any level would be happy with this purchase. 10 out of 10.



2. I bought 5 mosaic books while learning the technique and this is my favorite. Of the books I have read, this has the most comprehensive guide to the actual process of making a mosaic. There is an extensive section of tools, as well as the best explanation of the direct and especially indirect method that I have seen. Pictures are plentiful too for every step and offer some fabulous examples of what is possible with the art.

   Very well done!




3. So far, every mosaic book I have collected has something to offer. This one has a few notable characteristics. The section on tools and equipment is more complete and detailed than other mosaic books I have seen. Beginning mosaic books usually suggest some kind of spatula, a tile nipper, and glass cutter. Quite a few other tools are suggested and described here, as well as what they are for. Although I feel daunted about buying and using so many different tools, it is helpful to know what I can look for if a particular project requires something different.

   The projects are fairly simple, but unique. For example, there is a lamp base covered with broken plates and cups, including the cup handles which protrude from the lamp! There is an irregular-shaped plaque, formed by pouring concrete into a polystyrene foam that you design, and then covered with an ancient Roman-simulated design. There is a mirror frame which is jig-sawed into an interesting shape, and this project alone is for me worth the price of the book.
   There are projects with very clear instructions for using both the direct and indirect method of applying tesserae.
   
   What I particularly like is that the instructions include how to finish the projects, such as how to put the back on the mirror, what hardware to use, and how to apply it. The other mosaic books I have seen so far only tell how to make the mosaic part, and leave the finishing steps up to you.

   Finally, there are many photos of incredible projects (such as an entire facade of a house) made by professional mosaicists, which the beginner would not attempt, but from which beginners and experienced alike can find inspiration.




4. This has been the single most inspiring book I've read on mosaic. The instructions are not only clear in their description, but there are photos in the different stages of progress for those of us who are "show me" people. The many photos throughout the book are fabulous and offer a wide variety of ideas and techniques for creating. There are helpful artist's tips included throughout the book too, as well as tools and materials listed for each project.



5. Has all the basics, plus more. Great photos.

3 comments about Looking at Totem Poles.

1. This book is mainly an anthology of totem poles found in the world. As such, it is rather dry and starved for content. It describes various poles with accompanying photos but does not venture much into technology, artform, etc. I can't really recommend the book unless you are a traveller wishing to visit and view various totem poles found in the Pacific Northwest.



2. This is absolutely essential for anyone going to British Columbia or Alaska. It gives a brief description and explanation of almost all the important outdoor totem poles you'll come across, taking you through the poles figure by figure. I found it invaluable when in Victoria's Thunderbird Park and Vancouver's Stanley Park and Museum of Anthropology. A real gem you'll read over and glance through again once you're back home.



3. No frills, no gimmicks, just an excellent written and graphic profile of totem poles as a symbol of a North American people. Allows you to enter a community where beliefs in the earth, sky, oceans, mountains and animals continue to be spiritual.

5 comments about Woodcarving: Tools, Material & Equipment, Volume 1.

1. This book is well written and easy to read. A lot of books by woodworkers or contractors are hard to read but this one is an easy read. Its' very informative but its' not enough for a beginner to read and start carving. It only covers information about the materials needed to start carving. It is still good for a beginner to read as it has a lot of good material about the tools and materials. It really opened my eyes to a lot of possibilities.



2. This ought to be within reach if you love to carve in wood. Plenty of illustrations and easy to understand text. Having this book would keep you from having to own a lot of other related material. It covers it all, especially with vol.2.



3. Very comprehensive set about carving tools equipment etc.
   Both books tohether really gives you all you will need to know to get started and going the rest of your life...
   Chris Pye is very thorough in his writing with high attention to detail, as can be witnessed in his other books also.



4. i have both of chris pye's books, and i belong to his web page. his books are well written and illustrated, and are well worth the money. not only do you have the advantage of his writtings, but he is one of the few pros that you can send an email to and get a response. pro woodcarvers can be snobs. whether you are an experienced carver or a beginner his books are great and he is always very helpful.



5. THIS BOOK IS A TRUUE MUST HAVE. I DID NOT KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT THE CARVING PART OF WOODWORKING. BEING THIS MY FIRST BOOK I TRULY KNEW WHAT TO GO AFTER, WHAT I WANTED AND HOW TO GET THE BEST OF IT. WILL HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS READ BEFORE VENTURING.

3 comments about Mold Making, Casting and Patina.

1. If you are already a technical person who is looking for more information...skip this book. Unfortuneatly it is vague and unhelpful. I say this technically speaking...if you are curious about the process and just want to pick up a bit of vocabulary.. have a look. They could have done a great job with this book... but once again the process falls flat. Don't let the cover fool you.



2. While I was able to glean some marginal information from the book, I found it totally unsuitable for an intermediate approach to lost wax casting. This is a great book for a housewife who wants to show her kids how to make relief sculture or simple plaster casts. If you want to find out about the intricacies of casting for bronzes, save your money; you won't find it here. "Moldmaking" describes waste molds and latex, "Casting" is in plaster, and "Patina" is only for gypsum products. I expected more from the title, and I was disappointed.



3. Very clear and simple instructions. Takes you step-by-step through several different basic mold making procedures, using simple latex molds and plaster casts. There are a multitude of pictures and line drawings with clear repetitive step-by-step instructions as though the author were working with you in your own home. It is a basic book and not so advanced as to confuse you. Great beginner book.

1 comments about How-to Bamboo: Simple Instructions And Projects.

1. This book was first published in 1853. There are no real pictures only drawings of old style bamboo furniture. Uses old woodworking tools that don't even exist anymore. No newer techniques. Instructions only half there. They talk about trays to attach to the table, but don't say where the tray comes from. I wanted some simple instructions. These were large projects with a lot of detailed work. Big Disapointment.

1 comments about Ceramics: A Potter's Handbook.

1. A wealth of knowledge can be found in this timeless book that covers all the major aspects of ceramics.

   For the novice, it covers the the world's history of ceramics. Discusses clay and glaze compositions and gives step
   by step explanations of the various techniques from wheel throwing to hand building to making plaster molds for
   slip casting.

   For the advanced ceramist, there is good information of various kilns and their construction. It offers analysis of
   several major clays, frits, and feldspars as well as other useful reference tables including some recipes for
   glazes from low fire to high fire.

   I first bought the book in '82 as a college freshman and it has proven a valuable aid ever since. It is on the top of
   my "required reading" list for anyone interested in getting involved with studio ceramics.

1 comments about How to Carve Folk Figures and a Cigar-Store Indian (Dover Pictorial Archive Series).

1. I would have to say that this book is a good tool for the beggining sculptor. The book is informative as well as easy to follow. Most of the questions and doubts that I had were answered as I read from project to project. The book is not too overwhelming but rather simple and to the point. The book starts with a good section on selecting and caring for tools. Then briskly moves on to the wood needed and follows through to the projects in the book. Overall, I was pleased with the information gained from this book.

No comments about New Media Art (Taschen Basic Art Series).