A History Of Greek Art
A history of Greek art examines the evolution and essence of artistic expression in ancient Greece while situating it within the broader development of world civilization. The work opens with an exploration of early artistic traditions in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, presenting them as precursors that influenced the later emergence of Greek creativity. Through careful analysis, it traces the transformation of visual representation from symbolic and rigid forms to the lifelike balance and harmony that define Greek sculpture, architecture, and decorative art. The study emphasizes how Greek artists drew inspiration from earlier civilizations yet transcended them by cultivating ideals of proportion, realism, and spiritual beauty that reflected the intellectual and philosophical spirit of their age. Rather than offering a mere chronology, the book provides insight into the principles underlying artistic evolution, exploring how beauty and meaning merged in the Greek pursuit of perfection. In doing so, it captures the enduring legacy of Greek art as both a reflection of human thought and a foundation for Western aesthetics.
Famous Affinities Of History The Romance of Devotion - Complete
Famous affinities of history - Complete explores some of the most captivating love stories of notable historical figures, intertwining romance with the forces that shaped their lives and legacies. The book delves deeply into the famous relationship between Antony and Cleopatra, presenting it as an extraordinary tale of passion, sacrifice, and the complex interplay between love and ambition. It portrays Antony as a vigorous soldier and leader whose personal desires often clashed with his public duties, while Cleopatra emerges as a powerful and charismatic queen whose influence extended beyond her realm. Through detailed narrative and psychological insight, the work examines how these figures risked fortune, power, and reputation in the name of love. More than a mere recounting of events, the book reflects on themes of devotion, human frailty, and the enduring impact of personal relationships on historical outcomes. This richly textured portrayal reveals how love can both inspire greatness and precipitate downfall, offering readers a timeless meditation on the bonds that link human hearts across eras.
Kamei Miraku
Being born into a traditional Japanese artistic family means inheriting more than just a craft--it includes a family name, artistic style, tools, property, clientele, and a deep-rooted legacy. The Takatori lineage dates back over 400 years and began when Korean potter Hachizo was brought to Japan by warlord Kuroda Nagamasa to produce ceramics for the powerful Kuroda domain. Through generations, the Takatori potters weathered political turmoil and shifts in patronage, evolving to meet the aesthetic demands of the tea ceremony elite. Today, Miraku Kamei XV balances the Takatori tradition with modernization amid economic and urban change. Andrew Maske's book explores fifteen generations of this family of master potters, honoring their history, identity, and innovative expression.
Michelangelo and Titian
From the acclaimed author of Michelangelo, God's Architect, a dual biography of two towering artists of the Renaissance, whose decades-long rivalry spurred both to greater heights In 1529, Michelangelo was in Venice when he first met Titian, Venice's famed painter of princes, gods, and goddesses. Coming face-to-face with Titian's drama-infused, richly colored works, the creator of David and the Sistine Chapel ceiling realized he had met a worthy opponent. Twenty-five years later, Titian came to Rome to paint the pope, and the two met again. Painting in the Vatican, Titian experienced the full power of Michelangelo's work and vowed to surpass the achievements of his older contemporary. Michelangelo and Titian is the untold story of history's greatest artistic rivalry, a competition between two monumental figures more admiring of one another than either would ever admit. William Wallace brings the world of the sixteenth century to life, and in particular its culture of gossip and intrigue. Wallace challenges the established narrative of this relationship as mostly one-sided, with the younger artist in competition with the reigning master. He shows how the artists moved in overlapping courtly and papal circles, sharing the patronage, power, and sometimes friendship of the most important people of their era, including members of the Medici, Este, and Farnese families. Wallace traces how, over the span of some forty years, this unspoken rivalry was reciprocal and mutually beneficial, with each learning from the other's brilliance, quietly seeking to best the other's work and secure his own legacy. An extraordinary achievement, Michelangelo and Titian is a compelling account of two supremely gifted rivals who inspired each other to test the limits of their creative genius, and in doing so created some of the most astonishing works of art the world has ever known.
The Court Of Louis Xv
Step into the opulent yet tumultuous world of 18th century France, where the splendour of the Versailles Palace masks the intricate dynamics of a royal court on the brink of transformation. This historical biography offers a vivid courtly life narrative, capturing the essence of the Louis XV era with an intimacy that resonates through time. As whispers of revolution stir outside gilded walls, the French monarchy's grandeur and fragility are laid bare, inviting history enthusiasts to explore the complexities of power and influence that shaped a nation. Republished by Alpha Editions after being out of print for decades, this non-fiction book has been meticulously restored for today's and future generations. With a narrative style reminiscent of Alexander Dumas' influence, it weaves together the personal and the political, offering readers a profound understanding of the royal court dynamics that preluded the French Revolution. This edition is not just a reprint-it's a collector's item and a cultural treasure, poised to enrich both casual readers and those engaged in academic research. Immerse yourself in the pages that echo with the footsteps of kings and courtiers, where the past is brought to life with precision and passion. Whether you're drawn to the historical significance or the literary artistry, this work stands as a testament to an era that continues to captivate and inform.
Illustrations Of The Birds Of Jamaica
In the lush, verdant heart of 19th century Jamaica, a world of vibrant feathers and melodious calls awaits discovery. This newly republished edition, a cultural treasure that was out of print for decades, offers a breathtaking glimpse into the avian biodiversity of the Caribbean. Restored for today's and future generations by Alpha Editions, this illustrated bird guide is not merely a reprint but a collector's item that captures the essence of Victorian naturalism. Ornithological illustrations within its pages reveal the intricate beauty of Jamaican bird species, inviting birdwatching enthusiasts and nature researchers alike to explore the island's rich tapestry of life. As you turn each page, you'll find yourself drawn into a meticulous Caribbean wildlife study, reminiscent of the works of John James Audubon and echoing the spirit of Charles Darwin's studies. The vivid depictions and detailed observations serve as a bridge between past and present, offering insights into the natural history that continues to shape our understanding of the world. Whether you are a casual reader intrigued by the mysteries of nature or a dedicated collector seeking a piece of literary history, this edition stands as a testament to the enduring allure of the natural world and the timeless beauty of its feathered inhabitants.
Los Ingenios
Step into the vivid world of 19th century Cuba, where the lush landscapes and formidable architecture of Cuban sugar mills are brought to life through exquisite illustrations. This historical illustrations collection offers a rare glimpse into the industrial heritage and cultural tapestry of colonial Cuba, capturing the essence of an era where sugar was not just a commodity, but the lifeblood of an entire society. Rediscovered after being out of print for decades, this remarkable work has been lovingly restored for today's and future generations by Alpha Editions. More than a mere visual documentation, this edition stands as a collector's item and a cultural treasure, offering art historians and cultural researchers an invaluable resource for exploring the evolution of the sugar industry and Cuban agriculture history. The intricate illustrations serve as a portal to a bygone era of travel and exploration narratives, inviting casual readers and classic-collection buyers alike to delve into the complexities of Cuba's past. As you turn each page, you will find yourself immersed in the beauty and brutality of an industry that shaped a nation. This is not just a reprint; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Cuban art collections and a celebration of historical significance.
Military And Religious Life In The Middle Ages And At The Period Of The Renaissance
In the midst of clashing swords and whispered prayers, a world unfolds where the sacred and the martial intertwine, shaping the very fabric of medieval and Renaissance life. This long-lost masterpiece, now lovingly republished by Alpha Editions, offers a rare glimpse into the intricate tapestry of military history themes and religious practices medieval societies held dear. For decades, this book was out of print, but it has been meticulously restored for today's and future generations, inviting history enthusiasts and academic researchers alike to explore the vibrant pulse of middle ages Europe. Delve into the fascinating exploration of medieval lifestyles, where the echoes of chivalry resonate alongside the solemn chants of monastic devotion. This historical reference guide captures the essence of a time when cultural shifts of the Renaissance began to redefine the boundaries of thought and belief. As you journey through its pages, you will encounter the profound influence of religious and military life on the societal structures that laid the foundation for modern Europe. This edition is not just a reprint-it's a collector's item and a cultural treasure, preserving the legacy of Jacob's historical works for those who cherish the past. Whether you're captivated by renaissance studies or drawn to the nuanced dynamics of the renaissance period, this book stands as a testament to the enduring allure of history, inviting readers to rediscover the past with fresh eyes and a renewed sense of wonder.
El Teatro Por Dentro; Autores, Comediantes, Escenas De La Vida De Bastidores, Etc.
Step into the dim glow of the footlights and the hushed whispers of backstage, where the true stories of Spanish theatrical culture come alive. In an era when the curtain rarely parted for the public eye, this theatre history book offers a rare glimpse into the lives of playwrights and actors who shaped early 20th century Spain. With vivid backstage life stories, it reveals the intricate dance between creativity and chaos, where every scene is a testament to the passion and resilience of those who lived for the stage. Rediscovered after decades out of print and republished by Alpha Editions, this volume has been lovingly restored for today's and future generations, ensuring its place as a cultural treasure. More than just a reprint, this edition is a collector's item, offering theatre enthusiasts and drama students alike a window into the Spanish theatre scene of yesteryear. The pages resonate with the voices of luminaries like Jacinto Benavente and Ram籀n del Valle-Incl獺n, whose contributions to theatre production insights are as relevant now as they were then. Whether you're a casual reader drawn to the allure of behind-the-scenes revelations or a classic-collection buyer seeking to enrich your library, this book promises a captivating journey into the heart of theatre. Its historical significance and timeless narratives make it an indispensable addition to any literary collection.
The Printers, Stationers And Bookbinders Of Westminster And London From 1476 To 1535
In the bustling heart of Tudor England, a revolution quietly unfolded, inked onto parchment and bound in leather. The early printing history of Westminster and London was not just a technological marvel but a cultural awakening that shaped the world. This meticulously restored edition, out of print for decades and now republished by Alpha Editions, invites you into the vibrant book trade history of a bygone era. Discover the lives of early English printers and the intricate bookbinding techniques that crafted the very first pages of England's literary heritage. This edition is not just a reprint-it's a collector's item and a cultural treasure. It serves as an invaluable academic research resource, shedding light on the influence of pioneers like William Caxton, whose work in Westminster printing houses left an indelible mark on incunabula studies. The book offers a vivid exploration of the printing in London during a time when each printed word was a step towards modernity, making it essential for historians of printing and casual readers alike. Restored for today's and future generations, this work is a testament to the enduring power of the written word, bridging centuries and connecting us to the rich tapestry of Tudor England publishing.
Little Windows
In a world where the nuances of human nature often remain obscured, this rediscovered gem offers a window into the intricate tapestry of early 20th century England. Capturing the essence of British literature, this short story collection delves into the depths of social commentary and psychological insights, laying bare the complexities of human interactions. Once out of print for decades, this remarkable work has been lovingly restored for today's and future generations by Alpha Editions. With its England setting, the collection invites literary enthusiasts to explore timeless narratives that resonate with the same intensity today as when they were first penned. The stories echo the sharp wit and keen observations reminiscent of Somerset Maugham and H.G. Wells, making it a must-have for classic fiction aficionados and book clubs alike. This edition is not just a reprint - it's a collector's item and a cultural treasure, offering both casual readers and dedicated collectors an opportunity to own a piece of literary history. As you turn each page, you'll find yourself immersed in tales that reflect on the human condition with unparalleled precision. This newly republished edition stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling, bridging the past and present in a celebration of literary brilliance.
The Art of Manga
Celebrate artistic expression and innovation in this illuminating exploration of the history and cultural impact of manga. The Art of Manga spotlights--and celebrates--the Japanese comics and graphic novels that are sought after and beloved by millions of readers around the globe. Manga, which refers to comics and cartooning originating in Japan, utilizes a style first developed in the late nineteenth century that draws from Western comics and satire, as well as from Japanese printing and art historical precedents. With its dexterous line drawings, dynamic compositions, intriguing characters, and compelling storytelling, manga is an incredibly accessible and highly enjoyable form of art. Published to coincide with a groundbreaking exhibition at the de Young in San Francisco, The Art of Manga highlights ten key manga artists with rich sections devoted to their work and texts about their aesthetic themes and working methods. This prismatic volume also features essays and interviews on manga history, creation, and culture by artists, scholars, and industry professionals; manga timelines of its Japanese foundations and its relationship to the United States; and more than two hundred full-color illustrations to give readers a deeper understanding of manga's cultural development and social impact--and a greater appreciation for its highly creative and mesmeric power.
Sexual Dissidences
Travesti writers, voices, performers, artists, and historians present a collective narrative of survival. Despite its long history, the unique Latin American phenomenon of sexual identity, travesti, has been largely overlooked in Western European discourse. Travesti brings to life systems of knowledge and the attitude of autonomy that occupies a distinct position within the clash of class, gender, and race. The development of long-term forms of ephemerality sheds light on processes of travesti anti-capitalist revolt, as well as the capacity of travesti to exploit and/or migrate themselves in order to make life possible and worth living, and the dynamics of practices and reflections to emerge anew. Despite the necropolitical grip on their lives, the swaying of travesti bodies is both witty and powerful. They themselves have taken detailed steps to find a way to exist and build communities. Drawing together numerous writers, voices, performers, artists, and historians, this book is not merely about travesti, it is travesti. ContributorsP礙dra Costa, Johan Mijail, R. Marcos Mota, Marina Grzinic and Jovita Pristovsek, Claudia Rodr穩guez, Juan Pablo Sutherland, Marlene Wayar, Gabriela Wiener, Sergio Zevallos Interviews With Frau Diamanda and P礙dra Costa, Diego Marchante, Diego Falcon穩 Tr獺vez, Iki Yos Pi簽a Narv獺ez And Francisco Godoy Vega The second part of the book is a translation of Frau Diamanda/H矇ctor Acu簽a's book Escenas Catalana. With Forewords by Diego Falcon穩 Tr獺vez and Hern獺n Migoya, and illustrations by Juan Carlos Cajigas "Juka", C矇sar "Chechi" Ch獺vez, Jes繳s Garc穩a, and Rapha Hu. Copublished by Academy of Fine Arts Vienna
The Diver of Paestum
Since its discovery in 1968, the painting of a diver on a tomb in Paestum, originally the Greek colony of Poseidonia in southern Italy, has left viewers spellbound. It depicts a beautiful and enigmatic scene: a young man dives headfirst into the water from a cliff or tower. The image is joined by others from the same tomb depicting a banquet of young people drinking wine, playing games and enjoying music. Understanding this painting is often seen as a key to unlocking some of the mysteries of ancient Greek culture - and therein lies the puzzle. What is the meaning of the diver? Is it, as many have argued, a metaphorical representation of the passage from life to a world beyond? The eminent art historian Tonio H繹lscher rejects this view, arguing that there is nothing symbolic or metaphorical about the painting: the scenes celebrate the real lives of the Greek colonists of the early 5th century BC. The painting captures a young man's spirited personality and pursuits during a life which may have been short, but was lived to the full. In a groundbreaking reversal of how the painting is typically interpreted, this book opens a window onto the world of Ancient Greece and its culture of athleticism, eroticism, love for nature and enjoyment of the sea. A joyful ode to youth, it is above all a unique portrait of the zest for life in Antiquity.
Transcontinental
Art produced in the so-called Third World, or by non-European or North American artists, is usually seen as either traditional and folkloric, or a poor imitation of modernism. In art history, the avant-garde has always been associated with the Western metropolis, forgetting that every country has had its own particular relationship with modernity. This book describes a contemporary flourishing of radical artistic experiment in Argentine, Brazil and Chile (or by artists originating from there). The focus and priorities have been different to those of Europe and North America; at the same time, the work intensifies many of the issues which face us all. The nine artists whose work is described and analysed here use a wide range of materials: from paint, silkscreen, and photography to potatoes, money, magnets, wire, bone, feathers. Each artist has a particular strategy; in fact the variety and sophistication of the devices they use makes this a dazzling anthology of a modern visual poetics. Each artist invents new and many-levelled metaphors which link the 'Latin American' with the 'global'. This lucidly written, beautifully illustrated book is published to accompany an exhibition of the same title held at the Ikon Gallery, Birmingham and Cornerhouse, Manchester in 1990.
Clyde Singer's America
A richly illustrated study of the work of a beloved Ohio artist Clyde Singer was born in the small town of Malvern in 1908 and grew up in the rural hills of Ohio. Educated in the local public schools, he had an early interest in art and, after high school, attended the school at the Columbus Gallery of Fine Arts. In 1933 he received a scholarship to the Arts Students' League in New York City where his mentors were "American Scene" painters John Steuart Curry and Thomas Hart Benton. During his seven years in New York City, Singer developed a friendship with artist John Sloan, one of "The Eight" of the Ashcan School, a group of artists who painted gritty urban scenes and preceded the American Scene. Primarily oils and watercolors, Singer's early work focused on rural and small-town life in Ohio. Later in his career his art shifted to scenes of contemporary urban life. In 1940 Singer became the assistant director at the Butler Institute of American Art in Youngstown, Ohio, and, except for military service during World War II, remained there until his death in 1999. Singer completed more than 3,000 paintings during his career and is best known for his American Scene paintings. Singer's paintings are part of the permanent collections of many museums throughout the United States, and his work has been exhibited at the Whitney Museum, the Corcoran Gallery, the Chicago Art Institute, the National Academy of Design, the Massillon Museum, the Canton Museum of Art, and the Butler Institute of American Art. With 120 full-color reproductions of his paintings, as well as photographs of the artist at work and with his friends and family, Clyde Singer's America places the artist in the context of his time and makes his work available to a new and appreciative audience. Published in cooperation with the Canton Museum of Art.
Dreamworld
A lively history of Surrealism, from its beginnings in Paris to its expansion into an international artistic movement Dreamworld: Surrealism at 100 celebrates the centennial of Andr矇 Breton's Manifesto of Surrealism (1924), which launched one of the essential currents of twentieth-century thought and culture. Matthew Affron investigates how artists made good on Surrealism's promise of a revolution in consciousness by means of the unbridled imagination. This book highlights the key motivations, principles, themes, and techniques of Surrealist art from the early 1920s to the late 1960s. It also underscores Surrealism's spread beyond its birthplace in Paris, with a focus on the migration of artists to hubs in North America--especially New York City and Mexico City--during the Second World War. This lively, richly illustrated publication features works in a wide range of media by a diverse group of artists, including Jean Arp, Leonora Carrington, Joseph Cornell, Max Ernst, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dal穩, Marcel Duchamp, Wifredo Lam, Man Ray, Andr矇 Masson, Joan Mir籀, Pablo Picasso, Dorothea Tanning, Remedios Varo, and many others. Distributed for the Philadelphia Art Museum Exhibition Schedule: Philadelphia Art Museum(November 8, 2025-February 16, 2026)
Jordan Casteel
'[Casteel] captures everyday encounters with people and places in works that invite recognition of our shared humanity.' - MacArthur FoundationThe first monograph on Jordan Casteel, one of the most critically acclaimed artists working todayJordan Casteel (b.1989 in Denver) is a New York-based artist known for her large-scale, figurative portraits and landscapes made with gestural brushwork and bold swaths of color.From the New York City subway and the streets of Harlem to the woodlands of Upstate New York, Casteel has established a collaborative practice where individuals she has encountered over the course of her daily life are represented in their element, generating an experience that is at once intimate and collective.Casteel's debut monograph features nearly 150 beautifully reproduced images, with sections specially conceived and designed by the artist herself.
Korean National Treasures
An epic journey through the world of Korean art, ranging from the first century BCE to the mid-twentieth century The 150 artworks showcased in this elegant book represent the vast and varied traditions and the extraordinary range of media encompassed in the Korean art world. The objects--which include paintings, sculptures, ceramics, books, and scrolls--have, with one exception, never been published or exhibited outside Korea, and over twenty of them have been designated as National Treasures under the Korean Cultural Heritage Administration. Serving as a comprehensive introduction to Korean art, the book includes essays by renowned experts in the United States and in Korea that explore key subjects, from secular Joseon-period paintings to Buddhist art, ceramics, and modern painting. The featured works are all part of the diverse Lee Kun-Hee Collection, one of the largest and most impressive private art collections ever assembled in Korea, which was donated to the state in 2021 in order to share with the public the depth and diversity of Korean artistic traditions. Distributed for the Art Institute of Chicago Exhibition schedule: National Museum of Asian Art, Washington DC (November 8, 2025-February 1, 2026) The Art Institute of Chicago (March 7-July 5, 2026)
Ethiopian Devotions
Admire stunning Christian imagery of Ethiopian Orthodox Church art in this lavishly illustrated volume with informative essays and more than 100 images Ethiopia is one of the world's oldest Christian civilizations, and its rich artistic history often centers on religious themes and practices. Ranging from the fourteenth to the twentieth centuries, Ethiopian Devotions celebrates an incredible collection of work, from a free-standing basilica carved from living rock, to the tradition of Ethiopic hagiography describing the lives of saints, to diptych and triptych icons of veneration -- miniature paintings distinctive for their vibrant colors and soulful eyes. Insightful essays present Ethiopia's devotional arts, and place in context the images of illustrated manuscripts, panel paintings, inscribed portraits, murals, crosses, garments, devotional images, prayer staffs, church and monastery architecture, and more, while exploring their connection to liturgical music and literature. Written by distinguished scholars in the field, the book's exploration of Ethiopia's cultural, artistic, and religious traditions is authoritative, and its more than 100 images reveal the depth, beauty and detail embodied in the artwork. Ethiopian Devotions offers readers the opportunity to understand and admire radiant art and learn about its long and remarkable history.
Reframing Blackness
'Thorough, accessible, essential' Katy Hessel, author of The Story of Art without Men 'A sparkling debut. Bold, eloquent, personal and clear-eyed, Alayo Akinkugbe is a major new voice in writing about art, museums and culture. This book will shift your frames of reference, expand your canvas, and give you hope for the future ― changing how you look at art while also making you look again at your ways of seeing' - Dan Hicks, author of The Brutish Museums 'To explore a history of Black communities across centuries of art is a love letter to the practice, a gift of knowledge and an ode to those who's creative expressions give us much to be inspired by today' - Sofia Akel, cultural historian and founder Since the inception of mainstream art history, Blackness has been distinctly ignored. In Reframing Blackness, art historian and founder of @ABlackHistoryOfArt, Alayo Akinkugbe challenges this void. Exploring the presentation of Black figures in Western art, as well as Blackness in museums, in feminist art movements and in the curriculum, Alayo unveils an overlooked but integral part of our collective art history. Refreshing and accessible, this promises to start a much-needed conversation in culture and education.
Divine Anarchy
Divine Anarchy: A Collection of Art & Writing​Through a collection of more than a hundred paintings and twenty-one pieces of writing, CJ Story builds a world alive with heat, humor and heartbreak. From lost mentors and burning cities to lovers, dreamers and drunks, Divine Anarchy captures a wild mix of stories, memories and moments that blur the line between truth and myth. Part memoir, part fiction, Divine Anarchy: A Collection of Art & Writing follows Sirius, Halo, Scoot, Magdalena and the narrator as they drift through the neon nights and hazy mornings of Los Angeles, London and beyond - a world of art shows, parties, hotel rooms, and heartbreak. Between laughter and loss, drugs and daylight, they chase meaning and beauty in the anarchy of the modern world.Story writes with cinematic precision and raw intimacy. His paintings erupt with color and motion, blurring the line between chaos and beauty. ​Funny, wild, political and tender, Divine Anarchy is a collection of work from a writer and artist whose voice defines a generation searching for meaning - and finding it in the act of creation itself.​Available separately as Divine Anarchy: The Writings - a standalone paperback edition featuring all the written works from the full art collection. Coming January 8th.
All-American Ads of the 30s (Multilingual Edition)
Step (or jitterbug) into the dazzling world of 1930s American advertising, where bold promises, slick design, and more than a touch of wishful thinking kept the country dreaming through the Great Depression. While wallets tightened, creativity soared--glossy magazine pages teemed with cheerful, colorful ads selling everything from beauty creams to Hawaiian vacations, all wrapped in an air of optimism that defied the hard times.At the dawn of the decade, the sleek, modernist aesthetics of European avant-garde design shook up the industry, introducing stylized, symbolic, and even abstract ads that emphasized visuals over words. But as reality set in, admen pivoted to a more hard-sell approach, favoring bold headlines, big promises, and down-to-earth pitches that resonated with a nation struggling to get by. Irony and subtlety had no place when people needed practical solutions--and so began the golden age of persuasive, no-nonsense marketing.This treasure trove reveals the relentless optimism of 1930s campaigns that painted pictures of affluent, carefree American life, where a better future was just one purchase away and Lucky Strikes helped Hollywood stars find their focus on set. Whether it was for a Shaeffer pen, a Buick sedan, or the Frigidaire '35, these endorsements reassured hard-working folk that prosperity was just around the corner.A vivid time capsule of Depression-era consumerism, with more than 800 vintage ads, it reveals how Madison Avenue didn't just sell products--it sold hope, glamor, and the great American dream.
Slow Looking: The Art of Nature
Slow Looking: The Art of Nature is a unique celebration of the relationship between art and nature across millennia. Eschewing a linear narrative of art, this inspirational collection of artworks allows readers to make connections between the nature that surrounds them and the vision of a dazzling wide range of artists. Art historian Olivia Meehan has mixed paintings, drawings, sculpture, textiles, and decorative arts from across the globe in thought-provoking juxtapositions, inviting us to find something new in a familiar landscape and experiment in observing nature's wonders.Exploring the various intersections between artistic techniques and thematical elements across land, water, and sky, the pages reveal the deep--rooted connections between human beings and our natural world: the form and colors of a Georgia O'Keeffe painting of a shell echo a carved fossil from 500,000-300,000 BCE; Van Gogh's olive trees (1889) are juxtaposed with ancient Egyptian carved limestone dated between 1353-1323 BCE; and while water lilies captivated Claude Monet, their allure also traveled to mid--18th century India in Hunhar II's watercolor work.Following nature's patterns, Slow Looking: The Art of Nature takes readers on a journey from fields, mountains, forests, and glaciers to lakes, ponds, waterfalls, and rivers, and on to sunrises, rainbows, comets, clouds, constellations, and so much more. This guided observation of nature offers a whole new way of contemplating the world.
Artepano
Artepa簽o: Chicano Prisoner Kerchief Art features fifty artworks by Latinx artists working in the context of the American penal system. A pa簽o is a standard fifteen by fifteen-inch cotton handkerchief transformed into a work of art by prisoners that alternatively self-identify as Chicano, Mexican-American, Latino, and/or Hispanic. The artists also self-identify alternately as inmate. The Artepa簽o: Chicano Prisoner Kerchief Art exhibition presents a thorough sampling of the distinctive styles found in pa簽o art. The majority of works come from the private collection of Mr. Leplat-Torti, who has one of the largest collections of pa簽o art in the world. Additionally works of art come from the collection of the National Hispanic Cultural Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico and the Nora Eccles Harrison Museum of Art, Utah State University. The Artepa簽o: Chicano Prisoner Kerchief Art exhibition will be accompanied by a catalog with illustrations of every pa簽o featured in the exhibition with annotations by curator Dr. ?lvaro Ibarra. The publication will also feature an essay by renowned scholar Ben V. Olguin. Dr. Olguin's essay explores the complex social and economic factors surrounding the development of the artepa簽o tradition. Additionally, the catalog will include an interview with Mr. Leplat-Torti concerning his journey as a pa簽o collector and as an advocate for prison rehabilitation programs and prisoner rights.
Etching In England
A rediscovered classic that puts the glitter back into British printmaking Etching in England by Sir Frederick Wedmore returns, restored and reborn for a new generation. Step into the smoky studios and sunlit streets of 19th-century Britain as Wedmore, one of the era s most perceptive critics, guides readers through the art of etching with vivid commentary and warm authority. This book unfolds the story of English etching history: its technical revolutions, its passionate practitioners, and the cultural forces that made etching a defining medium of its age. Practical etching techniques sit alongside rich historical etchings and biographical sketches, giving both novices and connoisseurs a lucid etching guide wrapped in literary charm. Historically significant and brilliantly written, Wedmore s analysis remains a cornerstone of English art history and a must-read for anyone interested in British printmaking. His observations illuminate why certain 19th-century etchings still captivate collectors and scholars alike, making this edition essential for etching collectors, students, and casual readers who love artful storytelling. This volume was out of print for decades and is now republished by Alpha Editions carefully restored for today s and future generations. More than a reprint, this edition is a collector s item and a cultural treasure: annotated, faithfully reproduced, and presented to reconnect modern audiences with the enduring craft and critique of etching in England. Keywords: Etching techniques, Sir Frederick Wedmore, historical etchings, etching art analysis.
Etruscan Tomb Paintings, Their Subjects And Significance
A hidden world of color and ritual awaits step into the painted tombs of a vanished civilization and rediscover the stories written on stone. Etruscan Tomb Paintings, Their Subjects and Significance by Frederik Poulsen is a masterful exploration of Etruscan art and ritual life as revealed through ancient tomb paintings. Poulsen guides readers through vivid frescoes, decoding scenes of banquets, processions, and mythic moments to reveal what these images tell us about Etruscan culture, beliefs, and social practice. Blending meticulous archaeological studies with lively interpretation, the book illuminates how tomb art functioned in funerary ritual and civic identity across ancient Italy. This edition out of print for decades and now republished by Alpha Editions has been carefully restored for today s and future generations. More than a reprint, this volume is presented as a collector s item and cultural treasure: an essential reference for students of archaeological studies and Italian archaeology, and a beautifully preserved work for classic literature collectors and curious readers alike. Featuring rigorous historical art analysis and accessible commentary on Mediterranean archaeology, Poulsen s Etruscan painting interpretation remains a foundational text in Etruscan history and ancient civilizations scholarship. Whether you re new to Etruscan art or deep into tomb art significance, this revived edition brings the past vividly to life an indispensable addition to any library of historical discovery.
The Grip Cartoons
A wickedly witty mirror of a young nation laugh, learn, and linger over the sharp lines that shaped Canadian public opinion. The Grip Cartoons: Vols. I & II, May 1873 to May 1874 collects J. W. Bengough s biting Victorian political cartoons and periodical cartoons originally printed in The Grip, bringing together 19th-century satire that skewers politicians, social mores, and the headlines of a turbulent decade. These pages deliver classic caricatures and vintage comic art that trace the contours of early Canadian journalism and political commentary 1870s from elections and scandals to everyday life rendered with the crisp draughtsmanship and fearless humor that made Bengough a national voice. This edition s historical significance is profound: these satirical art collection pieces are primary witnesses to Canadian history through art, revealing how humor shaped opinion in Victorian era publications. Casual readers will enjoy rollicking humor and pointed visuals; collectors and scholars will treasure the authentic ink, timing, and cultural context of each plate. Key selling points: This book was out of print for decades and is now republished by Alpha Editions. It has been restored for today s and future generations. This edition is not just a reprint it s a collector s item and a cultural treasure. Perfect for fans of historical Canadian humor, classic caricatures, and anyone fascinated by the power of satire, this volume revives a landmark of satirical art and early Canadian journalism for modern shelves.
Caravaggio
One of the most influential painters of the Baroque era, Caravaggio transformed art history with his dramatic use of light and shadow and his raw, emotional realism. This beautifully produced, affordably priced book offers rich insights into his life and work in a compact, convenient format. From the striking intensity of The Calling of Saint Matthew to the poignant vulnerability of David with the Head of Goliath, Caravaggio's masterpieces are brought to life in vivid reproductions that allow readers to appreciate every detail of his artistry. Accompanying these images are insightful explorations of his works, uncovering the groundbreaking techniques and personal turmoil that defined his style. A comprehensive biography traces Caravaggio's meteoric rise in Rome, his volatile temperament, and the dramatic twists of his short life, offering a compelling portrait of an artist who was as passionate and unpredictable as the works he created. Perfect for both seasoned art connoisseurs and those newly discovering the wonders of early Baroque painting, this book invites readers to experience the genius of an artist whose bold vision continues to captivate audiences centuries later.
Manet and Morisot
An intimate exploration of an artistic friendship at the heart of the Impressionist movement ?douard Manet (1832-1883) was a pioneer of modern painting, and Berthe Morisot (1841-1895) was the sole female founding member of the Impressionist group. To each other, they were colleagues, friends, and--following Morisot's marriage to Manet's brother--family. Unfolding over a period of fifteen years, theirs was arguably the closest relationship between any two members of the Impressionist circle. Through collaboration, competition, and mutual collecting, each influenced the other's work and, in the process, changed the course of modern art. The story of this relationship has most often been told through Manet's magnificent portraits of Morisot, but the two artists' connection was more than one between painter and muse. Exploring pairs and groups of related works, Manet and Morisot reveals that, while Morisot looked to Manet for inspiration during her early career, as Morisot's work became more daring and garnered widespread acclaim, Manet began to follow her example, emulating her choice of subjects, her high-keyed colors, even her rapid, fluttering brushstrokes. Illustrated essays and entries challenge gendered perspectives in the Manet literature, while correspondence and a technical study invite readers into the two artists' shared social circle and contrasting studio practices. Published in association with the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco Exhibition Schedule: Legion of Honor, Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco (October 11, 2025-March 1, 2026) Cleveland Museum of Art (March 29-July 5, 2026)
The American Art Book
The groundbreaking survey, showcasing 500 of the greatest American artists, now updated in an essential new edition'A lavish glimpse not only into American Art, but into the history of the century as well.' - The TimesFully revised and updated, this new edition of Phaidon's seminal volume The American Art Book provides an unparalleled look into the richness and diversity of American art. Covering more than three centuries, this stunning survey tells the history of a country through its most vital artists, each of whom has been thoughtfully selected for inclusion by an advisory team of leading curators, historians, and institutional directors.From the earliest colonial portraitists, Impressionist luminaries, the giants of Modernism, earthwork innovators, and Pop Art icons to today's contemporary visionaries, each artist is represented by a key work, an introductory text written by an expert in the field, and cross-references to other artists, inspiring new connections through art history.Featured artists include: Ansel Adams, Josef Albers, Diane Arbus, Ruth Asawa, Richard Avedon, Matthew Barney, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Romare Bearden, Alexander Calder, Vija Celmins, Frederic Edwin Church, John Singleton Copley, Gregory Crewdson, Helen Frankenthaler, Jared French, Felix Gonzalez-Torres, Robert Gwathmey, Keith Haring, Barkley L. Hendricks, Jenny Holzer, Arthur Jafa, Joshua Johnson, Henrietta Johnston, Alex Katz, Gaston Lachaise, Jacob Lawrence, Edmonia Lewis, Maya Lin, Man Ray, Ana Mendieta, Senga Nengudi, Nam June Paik, Jackson Pollock, Robert Rauschenberg, Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, Andy Warhol, and Carrie Mae WeemsAdvisors include: Aleesa Pitchamarn Alexander, Kathleen Ash-Milby, Horace D. Ballard, David Breslin, Mel Buchanan, JR Henneman, Rujeko Hockley, Jonathan D. Katz, Franklin Kelly, Harper Montgomery, Lowery Stokes Sims, Juliet Sperling, Bradley Sumrall, and Leslie Umberger
Supernatural
From the bestselling author of The Fantastic Gustave Dor矇. Featuring 300 exquisite paintings and engravings that reveal the mysterious beauty of nineteenth century Dark Romanticism, Symbolism, and Pre-Raphaelitism, this lavish volume highlights the era's fascination with the spiritual, the macabre, and the sublime. Supernatural invites readers to experience the otherworldly imagination of celebrated and lesser-known artists who sought to capture the liminal spaces between reality and fantasy. Divided into 7 thematic chapters Luna (moon), Carmina (charms), Maleficia (witchcraft), Genii (fairies), Phantasmata (ghosts), Angeli (angels), and Daemones (demons)--it pairs breathtaking artwork with insightful commentary that illuminates the themes, symbols, and esoteric traditions woven into these haunting works. A glossary of 40 terms further clarifies the arcane concepts and spiritual influences at play. The sumptuous package includes gold-embossed cover and spine, decorative belly band, and sprayed edges inscribed with the title. Ideal for art lovers, mystics, and anyone captivated by the uncanny, it offers an unprecedented journey into the supernatural visions of the nineteenth century.
Art & Court of James VI & I
A dazzling selection of art, jewellery, clothing and objects that reflects the dynamic court of James VI & I. James VI & I, the only child of Mary, Queen of Scots, has often been overshadowed by the dramatic lives of his mother and son, Charles I. This book seeks to redress the balance by centering the first monarch to reign over both Scotland and England and uncovering the artistic treasures created during his extraordinary reign. The cultural riches of James's court are showcased, revealing his diverse roles as ruler, scholar, politician, father and patron of the arts. His court's passion for jewelry and fine clothes is illustrated in the vivid portraits and miniatures by John de Critz and Nicholas Hilliard - just two of many artists and craftspeople who thrived in its artistic and intellectual climate. Five richly illustrated chapters demonstrate James's impact on early modern Britain, while reconsidering the reputation of a king traditionally presented as preferring hunting and drinking to the duties of daily governance. Packed with exquisite art works and sumptuous objects, this book brings James's court vividly to life.
Impressions in Watercolour: Turner and His Contemporaries
Rarely seen watercolors by the greatest English artists of the 19th century, beautifully reproduced. Curated and introduced by Ian Warrell, the leading expert on Turner, this selection from the fabled Hickman Bacon collection is one of the finest groups of British watercolors in existence, and hardly ever seen or reproduced. Centered around 32 watercolors by Turner, including some of his breathtaking views of the Alps, early views, and late cloud and sea studies, the collection also encompasses some of the greatest works by Turner's contemporaries: John Sell Cotman, Alexander Cozen, Thomas Girtin, Peter de Wint, John Crome, David Cox and others. Beautifully printed on heavy uncoated paper, with some reproductions life size, this book conveys the intensity and freshness and stupendous virtuosity of these artists whose work in watercolor has never been rivaled. An extended essay by the leading expert and former Tate curator Ian Warrell examines the paintings and gives a vivid picture of the artists who made them.
Miami's Art Boom
Discover how Miami's local art community transformed the city into a hub of global artistic exchangeStep into the vibrant heartbeat of Miami's art scene during a transformative period in Miami's Art Boom. Award-winning art critic Elisa Turner presents over 100 of her best profiles, reviews, and stories to capture the evolution of Miami's visual arts community before and after the inaugural Art Basel Miami Beach in 2002. This book reveals how a constellation of visionary artists, curators, galleries, and museums ignited a cultural revolution that propelled the region onto the international stage.Through four chronological sections and a richly contextualizing introduction, readers are invited to witness a pivotal era when creative pioneers like Jos矇 Bedia, Carlos Betancourt, Mar穩a Brito, Gary L. Moore, Eugenia Vargas-Pereira, Edouard Duval-Carri矇, Mar穩a Mart穩nez-Ca簽as, and many others redefined artistic boundaries. Their individual stories are artfully interwoven with the broader narrative of a community energized by cross-cultural exchange. As Miami transformed into a flourishing hub of global artistry amid burgeoning support from state and private funders, the groundwork was laid for Art Basel Miami Beach, a landmark event whose explosive impact continues to reverberate.Miami's Art Boom is more than a history--it is a vibrant cultural artifact that not only defies myths about Miami's artistic roots but also celebrates the spirit of innovation and diversity. This detailed, lively collection is an essential read for art students and scholars, professionals, and anyone passionate about the power of creativity. Embrace the story of Miami's rise from the foundational work of local visionaries to the exhilarating exchange of the international art world and experience an inspirational journey.
The Art and Industry of Stucco Decoration in Europe
An interdisciplinary perspective no the spread and development of the stucco technique between the 16th and 18th centuries, and the different forms it took throughout Europe. Text in English and Italian. Stucco decorations have traditionally been studied considering their formal and artistic qualities. Although much research and numerous publications have explored the works of stucco artists and their cultural context, little attention has been paid to their professional role in relation to the other actors involved in the decorative process (architects, painters, sculptors, patrons), the technical skills of these artists, and how their know-how contributed to the great professional success they enjoyed. From the 16th to the 18th century, many of the stucco decorations in churches and palaces throughout Europe were made by masters from the border area between what is now Canton Ticino and Lombardy. This collection of essays aims to examine how these artists worked from Spain to Poland, from Denmark to Italy, via the Netherlands, France, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovenia and Austria, adapting to the realities of the different contexts. The authors examine these issues with an interdisciplinary approach, considering art history and social history, the history of artistic techniques, and the science of materials. Text in English and Italian.
Leonardo
This accessible and beautifully produced volume honors the extraordinary legacy of Leonardo da Vinci, whose genius shaped the Renaissance and continues to inspire the modern world. Through stunning reproductions of his most iconic works, including The Last Supper, Mona Lisa, and The Virgin and Child with St. Anne, readers can experience the depth and brilliance of Leonardo's artistry. These masterpieces, alongside his intricate sketches and studies, are paired with commentary that illuminates the innovative techniques, symbolism, and groundbreaking ideas that define his legacy. A concise and engaging biography traces Leonardo's journey from his early years in Vinci to his influential career in Florence, Milan, and beyond, exploring the boundless curiosity and intellect that fueled his pursuits in art, science, and engineering. Rich contextual details highlight the cultural and historical influences on his work, offering readers a deeper understanding of his enduring impact. Compact, elegantly designed, and affordably priced, this book is ideal for both devoted admirers of Renaissance creativity and those discovering Leonardo da Vinci for the first time. Offering a compelling exploration of his life and achievements, it is an essential addition to any art lover's collection.
Derrick Adams
The highly anticipated first monograph on one of the most celebrated American contemporary artistsThrough portraits, social scenes, photographs, sculptures, and immersive installations, Derrick Adams has developed an artistic practice that jocundly visualizes modern Black American life. Equally informed by popular culture as he is by the history of modern art, Adams's work brings the everyday experiences of Black Americans to the forefront, capturing fashionable moments of joy, resilience, and celebration. His artworks are filled with color, energy, and complexity, whether they depict intimate, everyday moments or grand, sweeping statements.Adams's first-ever monograph includes 150 of the most significant works from his thirty-year career, along with four newly commissioned texts from cultural luminaries. Filled with beautifully reproduced images and presented in a cloth case with a painting tipped onto the front cover, this stunning book establishes Derrick Adams as one of the most important figurative artists working today.
Banksy: Completed
There's more to Banksy than the painting on the wall: the first in-depth investigation into the mysteries of the world's most famous living artist. Banksy is the world's most famous living artist, yet no one knows who he is. For more than twenty years, his wryly political and darkly humorous spray paintings have appeared mysteriously on urban walls around the globe, generating headlines and controversy. Art critics disdain him, but the public (and the art market) love him. With this generously illustrated book, artist and critic Carol Diehl is the first author to probe the depths of the Banksy mystery. Through her exploration of his paintings, installations, writings, and Academy Award-nominated film, Exit through the Gift Shop, Diehl proves unequivocally that there's more to Banksy than the painting on the wall. Seeing Banksy as the ultimate provocateur, Diehl investigates the dramas that unfold after his works are discovered, with all of their social, economic, and political implications. She reveals how this trickster rattles the system, whether during his month-long 2013 self-styled New York "residency" or his notorious Dismaland of 2015, a full-scale dystopian "family theme park unsuitable for children" dedicated to the failure of capitalism. Banksy's work, Diehl shows, is a synthesis of conceptual art, social commentary, and political protest, played out not in museums but where it can have the most effect--on the street, in the real world. The questions Banksy raises about the uses of public and private property, the role of the global corporatocracy, the never-ending wars, and the gap between artworks as luxury goods and as vehicles of social expression, have never been more relevant.
Common People
A stunning book by photographer Leah Gordon and bestselling art author Stephen Ellcock, illustrated with 100 incredible colour images from a diverse range of artists of different eras, exploring the enclosure of common land in England and the struggle over the centuries to regain access. IN 1600, 50% OF ENGLAND WAS COMMON LAND.IT'S NOW 3%.THIS IS THE STORY OF HOW THAT HAPPENED. This is a visual journey through the history of the enclosure of common land in England and the stories of those who have attempted to resist. Richly illustrated with Leah Gordon's photography alongside fine art and folk customs past and present, discover: - A timeline of this centuries-long struggle for access to the land.- The stories of rural resistance such as the Levellers, the Diggers, the Luddites and Captain Swing.- The links between the struggles of the industrial working-class and the peasants.- Contemporary conflicts around land rights, such as the New Age travellers and rave scene, the anti-road campaign and the Right to Roam movement. Common People offers a reimagining of English history told by the people themselves, giving voice to the silenced history of the enclosures and the incredible visual creativity inspired by rural resistance and protest.
Why Surrealism Matters
An elegant consideration of the Surrealist movement as a global phenomenon and why it continues to resonate "Mr. Polizzotti carefully balances the movement's aspirations and attainments against its flaws and contradictions, hoping to recuperate Surrealism's 'critical and imaginative essence' for the present. . . . The best concise account of the movement available."--Michael Saler, Wall Street Journal Selected by Art in America as an "Essential Book About Surrealism" Why does Surrealism continue to fascinate us a century after Andr矇 Breton's Manifesto of Surrealism? How do we encounter Surrealism today? Mark Polizzotti vibrantly reframes the Surrealist movement in contemporary terms and offers insight into why it continues to inspire makers and consumers of art, literature, and culture. Polizzotti shows how many forms of popular media can thank Surrealism for their existence, including Monty Python, Theatre of the Absurd, and trends in fashion, film, and literature. While discussing the movement's iconic figures--including Andr矇 Breton, Leonora Carrington, Salvador Dal穩, Ren矇 Magritte, Man Ray, and Dorothea Tanning--he also broadens the traditionally French and male-focused narrative, constructing a more diverse and global representation. And he addresses how the Surrealists grappled with ideas that mirror current concerns, including racial and economic injustice, sexual politics, issues of identity, labor unrest, and political activism. Why Surrealism Matters provides a concise, engaging exploration of how, a century later, the "Surrealist revolution" remains as dynamic as ever.
Art and Revolution
A wrenching portrait of the Russian sculptor and a tribute to the potential of political art John Berger explores the life and work of Ernst Neizvestny, who, after clashing with Khrushchev, was excluded from the ranks of officially approved Soviet artists. Abandoned to obscurity, Neizvestny laboured to realize a monumental and very public vision of art. Exiled to the United States, he finally found recognition, returning to his homeland with the fall of the Berlin Wall. Berger's account illuminates the very meaning of revolutionary art. In his struggle against official orthodoxy - which brought him into face-to-face conflict with Khrushchev himself - Neizvestny was fight-ing not for a merely personal or aesthetic vision, but for recognition of the social role of art. His sculptures earn a place in the world by reflecting the courage of a whole people, commemorating, in an age of mass suffering, the resistance and endurance of millions.
Michelangelo and the Viewer in His Time
Now in paperback, an invitation to re-experience the works of the Italian master as they would have been encountered in his time. Today most of us enjoy the work of famed Renaissance artist Michelangelo by perusing art books or strolling along the galleries of a museum--and the luckier of us have had a chance to see his extraordinary frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. But as Bernadine Barnes shows in this book, even a visit to a well-preserved historical site doesn't quite afford the experience the artist intended us to have. Bringing together the latest historical research, she offers us an accurate account of how Michelangelo's art would have been seen in its own time. As Barnes shows, Michelangelo's works were made to be viewed in churches, homes, and political settings, by people who brought their own specific needs and expectations to them. Rarely were his paintings and sculptures viewed in quiet isolation--as we might today in the stark halls of a museum. Instead, they were an integral part of ritual and ceremonies, and viewers would have experienced them under specific lighting conditions and from particular vantages; they would have moved through spaces in particular ways and been compelled to relate various works with others nearby. Reconstructing some of the settings in which Michelangelo's works appeared, Barnes reassembles these experiences for the modern viewer. Moving throughout his career, she considers how his audience changed, and how this led him to produce works for different purposes, sometimes for conventional religious settings, but sometimes for more open-minded patrons. She also shows how the development of print and art criticism changed the nature of the viewing public, further altering the dynamics between artist and audience. Historically attuned, this book encourages today's viewers to take a fresh look at this iconic artist, seeing his work as they were truly meant to be seen.
Hew Locke
An in-depth look at the innovative career of an artist renowned for his multimedia explorations of colonial and postcolonial power For the past thirty years, Guyanese British artist Hew Locke (b. 1959) has used strategies of appropriation to reveal and upend the visual codes of imperialism. Incorporating sculpture, photography, drawing, and found objects, Locke's oeuvre has been described as a "postcolonial baroque" that deconstructs and reimagines deeply entrenched iconographies of British sovereignty. This richly illustrated catalogue showcases the full spectrum of Locke's practice, bringing together distinct bodies of work that scrutinize the visual language of empire and colonialism's present-day legacies of global market capitalism, migration, and diaspora. Essays from leading curators, critics, and scholars of contemporary art situate Locke's work within the context of colonial and postcolonial history and theory, reveal how his use of nontraditional materials--including cardboard, fabric, beads, sequins, and readymade toys--enables the artist to reflect on his Guyanese-British heritage, and consider how the artist's dense, highly textured, and multilayered works fuse vernacular and formal traditions. Published by the Yale Center for British Art/Distributed by Yale University Press Exhibition Schedule: Yale Center for British Art(October 2, 2025-January 11, 2026) Wexner Center for the Arts, Columbus, OH(February 13-May 24, 2026) Museum of Fine Arts, Houston(June 21-September 13, 2026)
Family Romance
Jean Strouse captures the dramas, mysteries, intrigues, and tragedies surrounding John Singer Sargent's portraits of the Wertheimer family. Jean Strouse's Family Romance: John Singer Sargent and the Wertheimers looks at twelve portraits of one English family painted by the expatriate American artist at the height of his career--and at the intersections of all these lives with the sparkle and strife of the Edwardian age. In commissioning this grand series of paintings, Asher Wertheimer, an eminent London art dealer of German-Jewish descent, became Sargent's greatest private patron and close friend. The Wertheimers worked with Rothschilds and royals, plutocrats and dukes--as did Sargent. Asher left most of his Sargent portraits to the National Gallery in London, a gift that elicited censure as well as praise: it was a new thing for a family of Jews to appear alongside the Anglo-Saxon aristocrats and dignitaries painted by earlier masters. Strouse's account, set primarily in England around the turn of the twentieth century, takes in the declining fortunes of the British aristocracy and the dramatic rise of new power and wealth on both sides of the Atlantic. It travels back through hundreds of years to the Habsburg court in Vienna and forward to fascist Italy in the 1930s. Its depictions of Sargent, his sitters, their friendships and circles, and the portraits themselves light up a period that saw tumultuous social change and the birth of the modern art market. Sargent brilliantly portrayed these transformations, in which the Wertheimers were key players. Family Romance brings their interwoven stories fully to life for the first time.
Nina Chanel Abney
The highly anticipated debut monograph from trailblazing artist Nina Chanel AbneyCombining representation and abstraction, Nina Chanel Abney's paintings capture the frenetic pace of contemporary culture. Broaching subjects as diverse as race, celebrity, religion, politics, sex, and art history, her works eschew linear storytelling in lieu of disjointed narratives. Through a bracing use of color and unapologetic scale, Abney's canvases propose a new type of history painting. The first definitive monograph on this contemporary American artist presents a collection of more than 300 works, including large-scale paintings, works on paper, sculptures, installations, murals, and commercial collaborations, along with a behind-the-scenes look at the artist's process. Insightful texts from influential art-world figures and writers underscore Abney's artistic impact.Strikingly designed, with an eye-catching acetate jacket, vibrant pages, double gatefolds, and curated inserts, Nina Chanel Abney is a celebration of the artist's distinctively bold style and innovative approach.
One Week With Mona
What happens when you spend an entire week standing in front of the world's most famous painting?During the strange days of the COVID lockdown, writer James Graeme Dove set himself a simple but radical challenge: to stand in front of the Mona Lisa in the Louvre Museum for one week. No phone. No camera. Just time, stillness, and a painting seen by millions every year.This short, vivid book is part art history, part personal experiment, and part cultural story. Along the way, it explores the myths of Leonardo da Vinci, the strange magnetism of the Renaissance masterpiece, and the way a single work of art can draw us back again and again.But this isn't a dry academic account. Written in an engaging, accessible style for new readers of art, the book opens up the mystery of why the Mona Lisa matters-not just to art lovers, but to anyone asking questions about time, beauty, and attention in the modern world.Perfect for: Students and young adults looking for an entry point into art historyReaders curious about Paris, museums, and the enduring power of cultural iconsAnyone who has ever stood in front of a painting and wondered what they were really looking atOne Week with Mona is an invitation to slow down, look closer, and see the familiar with new eyes.
