Artistic Vision
It’s a right-brain kinda thing.Archive for August, 2008
500 Animals in Clay: Contemporary Expressions of the Animal Form
500 Animals in Clay: Contemporary Expressions of the Animal Form was one of two books that came to me last week. I reviewed it looking for inspiration for projects for this year’s upcoming ceramics courses.
I thought this book did an excellent job providing me with examples of what it title says the book is about: 500 animals in clay. From traditional examples to more modern interpretations, this book contains beautiful single-view photos. I would have appreciated a central photo with a couple alternate views in the sidebars simple because the works are 3-D and should be presented as such. But, I didn’t mark them down for that oversight. Oh, and BTW, this is NOT a how-to book. You’ll need to look elsewhere for such a reference.
Overall, I was looking for examples that would inspire me with project ideas as I teach an introductory-level ceramics class for high school students. Obviously, some of the techniques aren’t possible in my school but I’m not looking to copy what is depicted in the book; merely to show off what is possible in a sculptural presentation.
The photography sells the book. Kudos!
School year looms and I need some inspiration
Summer is sadly approaching its end. Yes, I know, it nearly brings a tear to my eye as well. After having lunch with a few friends from where I worked two companies ago, I stopped in to Barnes & Noble to look at their art book section as I was needing some inspiration and direction for a couple of new classes I am starting in the Fall.
The B&N in King of Prussia had a pretty good selection. Well, for me it did. I was looking for books specifically about pastels and oil/watercolor/acrylic painting. It shouldn’t have been too hard but I was surprised the amount of material that simply missed the mark.
I’ll give you a simple rundown of the order I placed through Amazon. I’ve already received two of my selections (woo-hoo!) and am looking forward to the others coming ahead of schedule as well. Here’s the list:
- Pastel School (Learn as You Go)
- Painting with Pastels: Easy Techniques to Master the Medium
- Landscape Painting Inside and Out: Capture the Vitality of Outdoor Painting in Your Studio With Oils
- Oil Painter’s Solution Book Landscapes: XX Answers to Your Oil Painting Questions
- How to Paint Like the Impressionists: A Practical Guide to Re-Creating Your Own Impressionist Paintings
- Layer by Layer Acrylic Painting
Yes, I know there aren’t any watercolor-technique books in the list and only one acrylic book. I’ve got some watercolor resources available at my house. I just need time to go through them and think out how to incorporate the info. Of course, what to include is also helpful. I’ve got that to figure out too. Though time is short, it’ll come together.
Well, I’m off to bed. Good night!
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