Author: Thomas

Lasting Impressions: new art & design books

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This month’s art and design picks aim to inspire and educate, with books that provide masterclasses in everything from drawing to photography or even how to forage your own paint!

The drawings of Vincent van Gogh / Lloyd, Christopher
“A compelling and authoritative overview of the drawings of Vincent van Gogh, one of the most celebrated and intriguing figures in the history of art. Vincent van Gogh believed that drawing was the ‘root of everything’. This was reflected in the remarkable number of more than a thousand graphic works produced by the artist during his short, dramatic life – many of them personal, often lonely explorations of the emerging modern world, anxieties that still speak to us today” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Breathing space : Iranian women photographers
“A remarkable look at Iran through the lenses of 23 women photographers, at a moment in history when Iranian women are fighting for their rights with courage and determination. Exploring a range of photographic styles and genres, they record the past and present upheavals of their homeland as well as tackling subjects such as the nature of memory, the tension between tradition and modernity, and the scars of conflict and loss. Whether documentary or conceptual, their images have global resonance and speak of the hunger for freedom and the power of women to shape the world”(Adapted from Catalogue)

Botany for the artist / Simblet, Sarah
“This beautifully illustrated guide to botany in art explores the extraordinary world of plants and inspires you to try drawing them yourself. Masterclasses by famous artists – from Renaissance masters to contemporary illustrators – showcase different approaches to drawing and painting plants over the centuries. Botany for the Artist is a visual feast, not just for anyone wishing to create fresh, vibrant, drawings, but for gardeners, photographers, and everyone who is passionate about plants and how they are portrayed in art.” (Adapted from Catalogue) Continue reading “Lasting Impressions: new art & design books” →

What was made: New books on ceramics and upcycling

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Are you looking to get into ceramics? This list features a lot of pottery as we look at what gets made, remade and how what we make matters. Some books provide historical examples, while some provide expertise that might inspire your next creation.

Ceramics : an atlas of forms / Barkley, Glen
“What can we learn about the Roman empire from an amphora made in 200 BC? How can a simple, unadorned cup made in 1945 tell us so much about history? And what will an artwork comprising a vast collection of clay spheres tell our descendants about the act of making? Once fired, clay has the strength to last for millennia. This collection shares the stories of over 100 objects, honouring the artists who have left their mark on this timeless practice”–Publisher’s description.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

The art of upcycling : creative ways to make something beautiful out of trash, thrifted finds and everyday recyclables / Foss, Emma
“Discover a trove of upcycling ideas and inspiration, with this collection of projects from upcycling influencer Emma Foss. She shares detailed, step-by-step tutorials to teach you essential upcycling techniques so you can create something out of nothing. Through these creative projects, you’ll develop skills in basic woodworking, reupholstery, painting, papier-mâché and so much more.” ( Adapted fromCatalogue)

By my hands : a potter’s apprenticeship / Gadsby, Florian
“In By My Hands, Florian tells the story of his artistic awakening, his education in England, Ireland and Japan, and of the sheer discipline which has led him to become the cultural sensation he is today. Arguing for the value in dedicating yourself to a craft, Florian weaves anecdotes about particular pots and processes into the narrative of his life, exploring what he has learnt from specific pieces he was taught to throw during his apprenticeships and how they have informed his philosophy and approach to his work.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Continue reading “What was made: New books on ceramics and upcycling” →

Looking back on things: New art books

Thomas

A selection of books for your new year reading, these books reflect on the role of art; in its classical halls and chapels, in our reflections upon childhood and on the very streets we walk. Also included are some practical books for those ready to make a mark or stich that should help point you in the right direction.

Picturing joy : stories of connection / Lange, George
“Whether he was shooting a movie star or a family member, he saw his own search for joy reflected in the images. While growing up in Pittsburgh, Lange cherished his happy childhood, and he found himself unconsciously yearning for that feeling in his adult life. Through intimate stories and more than eighty photos, Picturing Joy invites readers to appreciate life with all their senses and to change their perspective by being open to new things.”– Provided by publisher.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

All things move : learning to look in the Sistine Chapel / Marshall, Jeannie
“A writer studies a famous work of art and finds herself and her own cultural moment revealed at its heart. Jeannie Marshall lived in Rome for ten years without visiting the Sistine Chapel: she didn’t want to have a superficial experience of the frescos, but she wasn’t sure how, amidst the crowds of tour groups and the noise of pop culture allusions, she could have anything but. All Things Move is a quietly sublime meditation on how art, once invested with the power to save our souls, can enlarge our lives if only we learn how to look.”– Provided by publisher.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Street art’s rising stars : 24 artists you should know / Mattanza, Alessandra
“Making their statements on the walls of the world’s major cities, these emerging artists are also making their way to the forefront of an increasingly crowded genre. As street artists move from the fringe to the mainstream, it’s hard to know who is a true talent and who’s just a flash in the pan. Whether rebelling against the establishment or bringing communities together; highlighting important issues or expressing a unique creative vision; these artists are living proof of street art’s lasting influence, infinite adaptability, and remarkable diversity” — Provided by publisher.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

The printmaking bible : the complete guide to materials and techniques / D’Arcy Hughes, Ann
“With its stunning array of full-color images, The Printmaking Bible is the ultimate guide to the ins and outs of every variety of printmaking practiced today-from intaglio to monotype.  Originally published in 2008, this comprehensive handbook has been revised and updated for this edition, which incorporates new artists, methods, and technologies from all over the world”– Provided by publisher.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Seeing it all women photographers expose our planet / Rubinstein, Rhonda
“Eleven visionary photographers–who happen to be women–focus upon moments of profound beauty and peril on our planet. These intrepid individuals use photography to expose how we–humans, animals, nature–are living together in these precipitous times. Each photographer provides a concise manifesto arising from their commitment to life on the planet, which is accompanied by a short profile and behind-the scenes insights into their activities.”–Publisher.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

The untamed thread : slow stitch to soothe the soul & ignite creativity / Woods, Fleur
“The Untamed Thread takes you inside Fleur Woods’ contemporary fibre art studio in rural Aotearoa New Zealand, where her practice is as untamed as the natural landscape that inspires her. Taking you on a journey through colour, texture, flora, textiles and stitch, alongside the magical moments, happy accidents, perfect coincidences and ridiculous randomness of the artistic process, this is a book for anyone wanting to connect with their inner creative self”–Provided by publisher.” ( Adapted from Catalogue)

Thoughtful explorations: New design and craft books

Thomas

This month’s picks may quietly rock your world, or at least let you explore a new craft or passion. Some look at the thought that happens before, during and after the design process, and there are also some straightforward craft books for those who just want to jump to the making.

Quiet spaces / Smalley, William
“Quiet Spaces places the work of architect William Smalley alongside spaces that have inspired him. Places of private contemplation – calm spaces to read a book or listen to music in, to walk through or simply be in – they are spaces that achieve a rare sense of repose and peace.  A foreword by acclaimed potter and writer Edmund de Waal records the small, unspoken ways in which we relate to buildings and how they come to have meaning for us”–Publisher’s description.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

A life in garden design / Bangay, Paul
“Paul Bangay is Australia’s most sought-after garden designer, with close to forty years’ experience. Known for his mastery of scale, balance, form and colour, Paul draws on his lifelong study of the natural and classical worlds to create gardens around the globe. A visual delight, it ranges from photos of childhood gardens and goats to hand-drawn plans for Paul’s earliest designs. Through never-before-seen materials, the story behind Paul’s vision is revealed – and we see the creative workings that come to fruition in meticulous and timeless gardens”–Publisher’s description.” (Adapted Catalogue)

Hilma af Klint & Piet Mondrian : forms of life
“For the first time, the complex, symbiotic ecologies that sustained the practices of two of the twentieth-century’s greatest painters are revealed. Although they never met, Hilma af Klint and Piet Mondrian shared a deep dynamic connection to the natural world and began their careers as landscape painters. Including works never before seen in the UK, this publication will elucidate and invigorate our understanding of two ground-breaking artists and will be sure to get synapses firing.”– Provided by publisher.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

What makes a garden / Blom, Jinny
“What Makes a Garden builds upon the work of The Thoughtful Garden, giving a broader idea of how she thinks about garden design. In particular it emphasizes her multi-disciplinary approach, which embraces architecture, conservation and art, coupled with a strong holistic thread.  With a broad appeal, this beautiful book is for all garden lovers: thoughtful yet practical and informative, it marries artistry with functionality.”– Publisher’s website.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

The potter’s way : heal your mind and unleash your creativity through the power of clay / St. George, Florence
“‘Warm, honest and full of inspiring tips, Florence’s story shows us that pottery has the power to soothe the heart and heal the mind.’ JULIA SAMUEL ‘An honest and redemptive story about the power of fun and creativity – I’ve always said if it was mandatory to wear a smock once a week and get messy with clay, adults would be happier.’ NICK LOVE ‘This book is a journey, with a map. Like all maps, it relay’s history, from the first point of contact to pivotal moments along the way. I like a map. They help us to find our way.’ INDIA HICKS” (Catalogue)

Modern crocheted blankets, throws, and pillows : 35 cozy and colorful patterns for the home / Strutt, Laura
“Laura Strutt brings you a range of new designs for blankets, throws, and pillow covers. Divided by colour theme – Bright and Beautiful, Warm and Rich, and Neutral and Natural – and with modern designs, there is something for every home, whatever your decorating style.  Patterns are graded so you can start with something simple if you are a beginner, or select something more advanced if you are skilled with a hook and yarn.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Pots, Pottery and Some Other Things Too: new design books

Thomas

This month’s picks take emphasis on the beloved art of ceramics. Pots, a staple of the form are also a staple in our lives. Alongside are a few books that take a broader look at creativity in the home, abstract art and photography.

Crown Lynn : a New Zealand icon / Monk, Valerie Ringer
“In the late 1930s Tom Clark, barely in his early 20s, began making porcelain tiles and electrical fittings alongside his family’s brick and pipe works in New Lynn. “Crown Lynn” is enriched by detailed research, including interviews with the late Sir Tom Clark and many other Crown Lynn staff. It has more than 100 photographs of Crown Lynn products, a comprehensive timeline and an illustrated catalogue of backstamps”–Back cover.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Design and create contemporary tableware : making pottery you can use / Bloomfield, Linda
“The tableware we use is very important in our everyday lives, whether plates, bowls, mugs, cups or teapots. This stylishly illustrated guide helps budding and established ceramicists alike to create practical and attractive ranges, starting with design principles, working through appropriate construction techniques, and leading on to decoration and finishes. Tips are provided on glaze fit, dishwasher- and microwave-safe glazes, firing and finishing.” — Back cover.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Around the world in 80 pots : the story of humanity told through beautiful ceramics
“”A journey through history and across cultures with the Ashmolean Museum’s unrivalled ceramics collection. It contains works from the Middle East, Asia, Europe, UK and Africa that span over 5,000 years. Pottery tells us about religion, daily life, humour, trade, sex, folklore and creativity. This compendium shows that humankind’s oldest craft is the perfect prism through which to view human history”–dymocks.com.au”–Publisher’s description.” ( adapted from Catalogue)

Creative family home : imaginative and original spaces for modern family living / Gibson, Ashlyn
“Nowadays, family homes need to work hard and play hard, meeting the varying needs of style-conscious parents, lively toddlers and everyone else in between. Creative Family Home celebrates modern family life, where children are given the freedom to express themselves and to develop their individuality within the context of an imaginative family home”–Publisher’s description.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

Australian abstract : contemporary abstract painting / Bell, Amber Creswell
“There is no single neat definition of abstract art. It makes no attempt to represent reality; instead it has its own visual language using shape, colour and form with no rules. An explosion of creative expression and gestural force, Australian Abstract explores the constantly evolving genre and how it offers unparalleled artistic freedom inviting deeply personal connection and interpretation from both artist and viewer.” — Back cover.” (Catalogue)

 

Chronorama : photographic treasures of the 20th century
“Chronorama: Photographic Treasures of the 20th Century is an impressive photography volume from the Condé Nast Archive, curated by Matthieu Humery for the Pinault Collection.  Taken from the pages of Vogue, Vanity Fair, House & Garden, GQ, and Glamour, the nearly 400 stunning original vintage prints and illustrations within this tome are by top photographers, resulting in an unprecedented showcase of some of the most important works ever to be produced for the magazine page — Provided by publisher.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

In the Mood for Something New: new design books

Thomas

We have a wide range of recommendations this week, stretching from the wonderous world of soviet bus stops to making a not-so-humble home bouquet. Whatever you’re keen to read this season, there’s sure to be a new area of interest to discover.

Lovely lace knits : learn the art of lacework with 16 timeless patterns / Vézina, Gabrielle
“Let luxurious lacework knitting bring you on a mindful journey as you cast on this collection of gorgeous knitwear! For anyone who has ever been intimidated by the intricacies of knitting lace, allow designer Gabrielle Vézina to teach you all you need to know to successfully tackle this timeless technique.  No matter which design you choose to make first, you’ll soon be looking lovely in lace.”–Publisher marketing.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

The Brutalists : Brutalism’s best architects / Hopkins, Owen
“Brutalist architecture inspires a passionate response, be it adulation or contempt. There is no disputing, however, that the style produces some of the world’s most breathtaking buildings. This landmark volume documents the movement as never before, by profiling the architects behind the style. ” (Adapted from Catalogue)

 

Flower porn : recipes for modern bouquets, tablescapes, and displays / Kaimins, Kaiva
“Bold, modern and more than a little bit cheeky, Flower Porn ditches the traditional floral bouquets for designer arrangements that you can recreate at home. Kai Kaimins, founder of East London florist My Lady Garden, shows you how to fill your home or office with eye-catching, Instagram-worthy arrangements. By following her flower recipes, you’ll unlock the secrets of color theory and get up close and personal with a huge array of blooms, season by season.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

A tale of two monkeys : adventures in the art world / Speelman, Anthony
“Anthony Speelman is the doyen of English art dealers specializing in Dutch Golden Age art. Vividly written and handsomely illustrated, his memoirs offer fascinating insight into the sometimes secretive world of Old Masters. This book will appeal not only to dealers, collectors and others in the fine art world, but also to would-be collectors eager for a glimpse behind the curtain.” — publisher’s description.” (Adapted from Catalogue)

 

Soviet signs and street relics / Guilbeau, Jason
“French photographer Jason Guilbeau has used Google Street View to virtually navigate Russia and the former USSR, searching for examples of a forgotten Soviet period.  Relinquished by the present they have become part of the composition of everyday life, too distant in time and too ubiquitous in nature to be recorded by anything other than an indiscriminate automaton. (Adapted from Catalogue)

Maus now : selected writing
“Richly illustrated with images from Art Spiegelman’s work, Maus Now gathers together many of contemporary culture’s leading critics, authors, and academics on the radical achievement and innovation of Maus more than forty years since its first publication. Maus is revelatory, and generative, in profound and long-lasting ways. With this collection, American literary scholar (and expert on comics and graphic narratives) Hillary Chute assembles the best work around the globe exploring this classic graphic biography”– Provided by publisher.” (Adapted from Catalogue)