4 comments about Gordon Matta-Clark: Works and Collected Writings.

1. I am impressed with the amount of information about Matta-Clark that is crammed into this book. So much of his own writings, images of his work, and writings by Matta-Clark scholars. Compared to the catalog from the recent Whitney show, this book is impressive in it's written content, although the images are much smaller. One upside of that is if you are going to scan them for a slide lecture like I am!



2. It is incredibly unfair of the previous reviewer to penalize the book itself when their complaint is with the seller. This is an incredibly beautifully designed book, rich in content and context.



3. This book collects information about Matta-Clark from many sources and makes it all accessible to you, the reader. Matta-Clark died very young and had not yet received wide recognition, so contemporary information about his work is hard to come by. This collection of interviews, photos, criticism, and other relevant documents allows the artist to explain himself in his own words. It is also very nicely bound with a ribbon bookmark.



4. Dear Amazon,
   
   I never received the package although I paid for it , this is the only way of telling you my anger

1 comments about Swiss Carvings: The Art of the 'Black Forest' 1820-1940.

1. This book is the first serious study of this genre. The authors have put together a bonanza of information including not only serious academic research but the most amazing photos. Bears on skis, majestic eagles, faithful hounds, and amazing sculpture, leap out of the pages...The authors point out that this whole ouvre has long been ignored and needs to be re-classified for what it really is, a serious, 19th/early 20th century art form. The chapter on international exhibitions, for example, puts a completely different perspective on Black Forest. The book is thoroughly readable and also refreshingly unpretentious.

5 comments about Tom Friedman (Contemporary Artists).

1. I found the imagery as well as the associated interview with Tom Friedman to be a perfect portrait of his work.



2. I love Tom Friedman's work, its really conceptual even still. This book is really insightful and has a lot of his best known work. With these artist's books though, comes with poor binding. It will fall apart if you don't take care of it.



3. Tom Friedman is amazing. His work defines patience, creativity and a sense of humor. Highly recommended.



4. Tom Friedman is a conceptual artist whose work has the remarkable ability to intrigue almost anyone. This book is impossible to not examine: the works are wonders, the layout and photography are beautiful, and the text is as enlightening as it is thought provoking.
   I'm a High School English teacher and I sometimes leave this book out so that unsuspecting students can open it and marvel at Friedman's work: The bubblegum piece and the toothpicks never escape their attention. I've yet to meet anyone who can simply dismiss Friedman's work they way most installation art is written-off as unappealing to anyone without an art degree.
   While the interview with Friedman occasionally lapses into vacuous philosophizing, it is surprisingly lucid and often adds another dimension to the viewer/reader's engagement of a particular piece. Friedman is especially good at addressing (and dismissing) the common (and lazy) description of his work as "obsessive."
   This book's representation of Friedman's work has a popular appeal that is inextricably intertwined with its philosophical and artistic inquiry:
   "bubble gum": What is craft?
   "1,000 hours of staring "What is history?
   "Ball of feaces": What is the line between existing and not existing?
   In short: burn your art history books and replace them with this one.



5. Tom Friedman takes household objects and...well read the book jacket if you want a description of what Friedman does, the fact is this is a great book. The obsessive nature of Friedman's work really comes through in this collection, with descriptions of the painstaking process Friedman went through to create his works. One such work is a blank piece of paper that Tom Friedman literally stared at for a thousand hours, not consecutively of course. Friedman explains his thought process, how he conceptualizes his art. The "1000 hours of Staring" for example, are Friedman's attempts to "create" a history to an object (without knowing the "history" of the piece, you would simply be looking at a blank piece of paper)

   It would probably be more impressive to see these pieces in person, (especially in his pieces that are very very small or emphasize 'imagined' space such as the area that Friedman had a witch put a hex on). To anyone who hate art installations and the like this book may change your mind. But don't think that Friedman only does installations, his work covers many different areas, from photograhpy to sculpture and illustration. The one quality that links all these mediums is Friedman's intricate, detailed thought process. Even people who aren't into modern art will be forced to meditate on the nature of the objects Friendman employs. Can't say enough about this book. Pick it up even if you think you don't like post modernism, pick it up even if you hate art.

4 comments about Metalwork and Enamelling.

1. For the professional, amateur or hobbyist, Herbert Maryon's book remains one of the most important books in its field. Originally published in 1912, this book was written at an important time in our history. It is a text of twentieth century knowledge and understanding encompassing over 3000 years of metalworking processes. It picks up where the master Italian goldsmith Benvenuto Cellini leaves off in his Treatises, and yet it is the last thorough publication that predates the advent of the modern electric power tool.
   The importance of this is multifold. First it brings every process down to the directness of basic hand tools. It is the jeweler making every mark and every cut through the simplicity of the basic tools that have been used for centuries. Processes are not obscured through expensive specialized equipment that are limited in their application.
   The same is true of the materials themselves. Sheet and wire that are readily made by the jeweler are the basis for all forms of fabrication. Hinges for example start with sheet metal and do not rely on the limitations of commercially produced products, thus freeing one financially and aesthetically.Thirdly, the use of basic hand tools expands the realm of the small studio. A simple burin, scraper and burnisher can accomplish many of the same tasks that match hundreds of dollars worth of specialized tools while performing a greater range of uses. Many of these tools can also be made by the jeweler or adapted to their own personal applications.
   Herbert Maryon was a master metalsmith himself. His expertise is evident throughout the book. While no one book can cover everything, this book provides a foundation to develop any number of approaches. His sample of seventy-two kinds of twisted wire is one example of taking a basic technique and turning it into a full scope of possibilities of the highest caliber. From fabrication to casting, stone setting to enamel this book provides a wealth of information and insight.
   (Review by Robert Jackson, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia USA)



2. The first two reviews are dead on target. However,there is another aspect to Marion's book. It gives a fine perspective for judging newer texts and would-be teachers. During a novice's jewelry class, students were offered a chance to take an advanced course, given by one of the instructor's friends. It would show us a "special method" of soldering fine gold grain work. An excellent method is plainly laid out on pages ten and eleven of Metalwork & Enamelling. These two pages saved me over four hundred dollars; a nice return on the book's price.



3. I'm writing this review because I believe this book deserves another good review. My personal interest is working all sorts of metals. I have searched these sorts of sites extensively looking for books that give a clear explanation of the skills required to do this sort of work and this book by Herbert Maryon is one of the best.
   In the first 20 chapters, at 166 pages, Maryon concentrates on metalworking. The subjects include Soldering, Setting of stones, Filigree work, Raising and Shaping, Spinning, Repoussé work, Twisted Wires, Metal Inlaying and Overlaying to name just a few.
   I found the photos of twisted wires particularly good and have not found this sort of information in other books to date. The last chapter in this section on Japanese Alloys and Stratified Fabrics was excellent also as I have not encountered this information either.
   Chapters 21-27, at 31 pages, deal with Enamelling and once again we have good descriptions on the different topics of Cloisonné enamels, Plique-à-jour enamels, Encrusted enamels and Painted enamels to name a few.
   His next major section is Metal Casting at 33 pages, Chapters 28-31, and we again get good descriptions and techniques. Following on from this we have an assortment of chapters dealing with Construction, Design, The Making of Tools and Polishing and Colouring.
   Maryon rounds the book out with some tables and conversion charts dealing with areas, gauges, measurments, weights and temperatures.
   Overall I believe Maryon has done a very good job of explaining the skills and techniques required to do metalwork and enamelling at this level.
   One criticism that could be leveled at this book is that compared to other books on the same subject there are possibly too few photos and drawings which could have given an added dimension to the otherwise clear descriptions.
   When learning like myself from scratch it pays to draw on multiple sources. Other books I have consulted are; "A Silversmith's Manual" by Bernard Cuzner; "Silversmithing" by Finegold and Seitz; "Metal Techniques for Craftsmen" by Oppi Untracht. These books including Maryon's are the best out there and are all worth purchasing. Reasoning being that they all have invaluable infomation which often overlaps but have tips and tricks unique to each book. Which are invaluable to becoming proficient in this art.
   The book therefore gets 4.5 stars from me as it gives good advice which is most, and has been, helpful.
   Finally just to say another great book by Dover.



4. I have owned this book for 15 years and I think it is an excellent reference book for jewellers and metal smiths. It covers all types of metal work including gold and silversmithing, jewellery, stone setting and enamelling using traditional techniques. Written by Herbert Maryon O.B.E., who was one of London's best gold and silversmiths.

5 comments about Making Concrete Sculpture.

1. So little content, where are the checks and balances in the publishing industry? Does the publisher just request photo's to then send it all to China for printing and call it a book? "Making Concrete Sculpture" is a catalog of T.J. Neils work with a 2 page introduction of supplies you will need. He is not going to give anything away while trying to aggrandize himself. You can get the same information at your local Home Depot. This Schiffer book is a waste of time, money and paper.



2. This is the problem with buying books on line.The instructions amount to , "buy some concrete, get some rebar & tie wire and go for it"!!!



3. If you are looking for an instruction manual...this isn't it. Mainly a journal or record (photographic) of this craftsman's process. It was not helpful for me.



4. This highly anticipated work was mistitled and very disappointing. There is basically no information on making concrete sculptures, and consists of pictures of the author's various works. A more appropriate title would have been T.J.'s Concrete Sculptures.



5. If you're like me, and looking for instructional books on concrete sculpture, then go for something by Sherry Warner Hunter or someone like that. This book just showcases T.J.'s work. There are some images of his armatures for his sculptures, but if you're looking for step by step instructions to break into this fascinating craft, look elsewhere. Besides, you can see most of the stuff in his book on his web site and save yourself some money.

1 comments about Anasazi Pottery.

1. I live in Arizona and there are old indian dwellings on my property. There is a lot of pottery pieces everywhere. I bought this book in hope of identifying what they were but the book although good, is only from specific digs and it is in black and white which makes it very hard to match my pottery pieces to the book. It is a good book if you are interested in reading about Anasazi pottery in general but not good for reference purposes.

No comments about Calder: Gravity and Grace.

5 comments about Hands on Sculpting: From Your First Trip to the Art Store to a Fun and Relaxing Hobby in a Truly Satisfying Art.

1. I tell you if I were not in between jobs (gotta save my pennies for the rent) I would have ran out to the nearest art supply store and purchased some "sculpey" clay to begin my new hobby as a sculptor.

   That's how easy Dottie Erdmann, the author, makes sculpture look. Erdman, a self-taught sculptor, echoed my sentiments exactly when she explained she had an interest in sculpture but didn't know where to begin. Armed with a little information she had gathered about sculpting she headed to her art supply store to purchase some clay and tools. A sculptress was born.

   The book is an easy step-by-step guide complete with black and white photos and drawings. She starts off with super easy small objects: a lemon, followed by an apple, etc. She builds your skills and confidence with the smaller objects while advancing you to the more difficult projects in the book.

   The only disappointment I had with the book were the tools she used to put the lines and detail in the clay. I couldn't tell which ones were being used for which project. But, as I read through the book, I began to learn the sculptor developes a feeling (comes with experience - trial and error) for which tool to use to make certain impressions in the clay. Besides that, the book was EXCELLENT!!!!!!!!!!




2. As a provessional who works with patients who are recovering from physical and mental challenges I found Hands On Sculpting an enormously useful book. It doesn't "talk down" to the patients, but "talks with" them encouraging them to work with their hands and use their creativity while sculpting anything from very, very simple projects to projects of more complexity. The feeling of accomplishment, which builds self-esteem, is magnificent therapy during the recovery period.



3. I enjoy Mrs. Erdmann's sculpting techniques very much. She came to my school and taught our class a lot of really neat stuff! Thanks to Mrs. Erdmann I am really having fun with sculpting.

   Eric Martin




4. My son was fortunate to have the author, Dottie Erdmann visit and instruct his third grade class. The entire class was completely thrilled and amazed with what their hands can do. Hands on Sculpting is a must for every school.



5. My family found this book to be informative as well as creative and fun for all ages and skill levels. It's written in an easy to read format, just as if you were sitting in a private lesson. The pictures and drawings are very clear and helpful.

2 comments about Indian Silver Jewelry of the Southwest, 1868-1930.

1. Excellent reference on Southwest Indian Jewelry. A good read before going in search of old or modern day Native American jewelry teasures.
   
   Wilford
   Wilford's Trading Post
   Gallup, New Mexico



2. This book depicts the best from collections of early Native American Pueblo silverwork. The photographs allow the reader to identify key characteristic features of traditional Native American jewelry. The informative verbal descriptions do not insult the reader nor the makers. There are few books that portray the early Southwest jewelry as well as this one.

1 comments about Picasso's Collection of African & Oceanic Art: Master of Metamorphosis.

1. Hardback, 11.75 x 9.25 " , 152 Pages, 110 Objects which were at one time in the collection of Pablo Picasso. Of great historical influence in modern art, these tribal art pieces are generally well illustrated in full-page color photographs. Well-researched and informative text, with every object individually descibed.