Book Description

Tourist art production is a global phenomenon and is increasingly recognized as an important and authentic expression of indigenous visual traditions. These thoughtful, engaging essays provide a comparative perspective on the history, character, and impact of tourist art in colonized societies in three areas of the world: Africa, Oceania, and North America. Ranging broadly historically and geographically, Unpacking Culture is the first collection to bring together substantial case studies on this topic from around the world. ... Read more

Book Description

"There's just something about that dog . . ." Until now, little else could be said about George Rodrigue's mysterious, wildly popular icon. Finally, in his own words, the Blue Dog Man speaks out, shedding light on his creation-going beyond the story of Blue Dog's early incarnation to describe in rich detail both the dog's storied Cajun roots and its brilliant, pop-infused universe of today.

Blue Dog has become a touchstone of contemporary American culture, winning accolades from U.S. presidents, Hollywood stars, and ordinary people alike. Woven into this iconic character are the skeins of Cajun history-and, more specifically, the dreams, fears, and passions of its creator.

Rodrigue: Blue Dog Man takes readers on an unprecedented narrated journey to the heart of a new Blue Dog generation, tracing the evolution of the Blue Dog from its origins in Louisiana legends to its myriad forays into the dazzling, multichrome modern world. Along the way, Rodrigue reflects on everything from Christianity and the afterlife to Renaissance painting, to Jackson Pollock to Andy Warhol and MTV. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

COLOR THIS THE CAT'S MEOW
Teach an old dog new tricks? Absolutely, provided the pooch in question is Blue Dog, that colorful canine spawned from the mind of Cajun artist George Rodrigue. (For those no up to their four-legged friends fodder, the cobalt canine with the yellow eyes is based on three of the artist's now-dead dogs, and was first immortalized on slick papers back in 1994.) Who says a sleeping dog must lie? This babe is everywhere: portraits hang in the White House, on the set of "Friends" and in fan Whoopi Goldberg's abode; Blue Dog also stars in an Absolut ad. This volume boasts 60 gorgeous never-before-published paintings, along with commentary by Rodrigue on the birth of Blue Dog and its transformation into a pop culture icon. Tom Brokaw, an avid Blue Dog collector, wrote the book's forward. The cat's meow. Really.

Blue Dog Rocks!
You just can't fully appreciate or understand the scope and delight of Blue Dog until you read this book. I adore Blue Dog. This silly, goofy blue dog provokes emotions in me that I have not experienced with art before...there is some strange, sad, beautiful, eerie, rapturous, haunting, joyful essence to this darn dog. This book is completely unique, fun, inspirational...I could go on and on. You just have to touch this book (the cover is fuzzy!) and open it...you will be hooked. The best coffee table book and a sure conversation starter, though that is hardly its value.

Gotta love that dog
Any book with more of Blue Dog is great. This features more of the pop art world of Blue Dog than the previous books of Rodrigue's work. (I actually like the paintings of Blue Dog in cajun settings best.)

Delightful
This is one of those "hmmmmm...interesting" books. George Rodrigue gives a compelling history about his roots and how Blue Dog came into creation. While I love the content of the book, I am even more facinated by the design. Inside you will find a "punch-out" blue dog mask, postcards and other little nifty interactive thing-a-ma-jigs that help make this book such a pleasure to enjoy.

Long Live The Blue Dog!
This is a weighty (but not cumbersome) coffee table book that any thinking, feeling human being would be happy to own. Ever since I saw some original Blue Dog paintings in New Orleans, I've wanted to own one of them. Alas, I'm too poor. This book captures the spirit of the little alien-looking pooch and lets me borrow it for a price I can manage. ... Read more

Book Description

Reflecting our world in a uniquely haunting way, The X-Files has engendered a new look of mystery, conspiracy, phenomenon, and fear. These enigmatic, elusive images have had a profound and compelling impact on our visual reality, both feeding into and drawing from mainstream America's fascination with the subversive, the disowned, and the disillusioned. This innovative volume, a visual response to Chris Carter's dark, uneasy creation, collects the works of more than sixty cutting-edge artists.

Representing a cross section of contemporary visual arts, these photographers, painters, scultptors, graphic designers, and digital media artists have produced works that reflect their personal interpretation of The X-Files: as a cultural phenomenon, as a new chapter in television history, as an engrossing cosmic conspiracy. Many pieces are accompanied by a statement from the artist, explaining the inspiration behind his or her contribution--ranging from an episode to a line of dialouge, form a particular incident to a theme within the entire series. Illustrated with video stills from the episodes, this volume shows the strong influence of The X-Files imagery on the artistic mind.

In this introduction to this powerful collection of images, acclaimed writer William Gibson noted that The X-Files "is a disturbing and viscerally satisfying expression of where we've come from, where we are today, and all those places we simultaneously yearn and dread to go." Starling, beautiful, and thought-provoking, this unusual volume expands the creative vision of The X-Files, and of contemporary art itself. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

The Art Files
This is an awesome book for real X-Files fans because it shows a little of the truth behind the show. What I mean is, while there's some aspects of horror to it and a lot of surreal stuff, it also pokes fun at itself and the stars in a genuine way that makes you feel like the people behind the scenes are willing to let you explore things from their perspective a little. The pictures are thought-provoking each in their own way and you can pick up on things you didn't see before each time you go through them. It's a very nice book and would make a nice gift for any fan.

Nice Pics. . . . .
Unfortunately, This book is not your well known X-Files Guide book that we've all grown to Love. If you love Art, and meaning Freaky Art, then this is your book to own. But on a lighter note there are Scully, and Mulder pics. for your enjoyment. Fortunately for myself, I Love unique art, and X-Files is definitely covered under that category. I found it interesting to go into the minds of these very talented artists; to immerse myself into their subconsciously Talented works; In a way looking through their eyes at how they view The X-Files ((who knows, maybe even their own lives)). There are notes for each picture, and descriptions of what inspired the artist to Paint, draw, snap pollaroids or mold out of clay their creation. So if you're into Very Unique, yet captivating Art, then this is a Keeper. "Hope Ya Likes!"

The Review of The Art Of The X-Files
This book, so to call it, was very interesting. It showed creativity, and a darker side of the x-files as represented by the viewer. If you like art, this is a must buy, if not, I wouldn't recomend it.

Remaindered city,four months tops - lower than 1 star -zero.
Positive proof that ordering a book before it's published is really stupid. This isn't the Art of the X-Files, introduced by William Gibson (maybe William Gobson would have been a better influence). It's a bunch of X-files images interspersed with melodramatic "art" and groaner explications. "The creative act takes another aspect when the spectator experiences the phenomenon of transmutation; through the change from inert matter into a work of art, an actual transubstantiation has taken place, and the role of the spectator is to determining the weight of the work on the esthetic scale." Oh, please. There are also lots of very large images of the title mottos. Do you really need a two-page color spread of the words "Everything Dies" (one page, necessarily, is just plain black), or, too appropriately, "Deceive Inveigle Obfuscate"? Trust no one. I'm waiting for the apology.

Not what I expected...but better!
Not your run-of-the-mill X-Files info book..I was surprised to find that it's a collection of art inspired by the X-Files. As an artist, I think it's awesome...all kinds of paintings and collages and multimedia stuff, with the same dark and blackly humorous feel as X-Files. Neat to look through and appreciate...but be warned! It's not a X-Files info guide! Just so ya know... ... Read more

Book Description

The latest book in the internationally recognized series devoted to contemporary art (Cream and Fresh Cream), architecture (10x10), photography (Blink) and

product design (Spoon), Cream3 offers an authoritative view on the art world of today and tomorrow.

Ten international curators, renowned experts in contemporary art, have each chosen ten artists whom they feel best exemplify what is happening in the contemporary art world today, and also those who will be the stars of the future.

The 100 artists in Cream3 have risen to an international platform since 1997 or, in the opinion of the curators who have selected them, are about to do so. Each artist's work is represented in two double-page spreads, accompanied by a short biography and bibliography and a text by the curator who selected them.

The variety of ideas and forms in contemporary art are presented in Cream3 through 400 artists' pages, arranged A-Z, featuring numerous examples of each artist's work alongside a brief text from the curator. This virtual exhibition of new art is preceded by a virtual conversation - an internet discussion among the 10 curators - each a noted name involved in the staging of new developments in art.

Each curator in Cream3 has also selected a 'Source' artist whom they feel has influenced or created the context for the new generation. These 10 'Source' artists provide a wider historical framework in which to view the new work. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

An exciting and innovative book
"Cream 3" is an exciting and innovative book in design and concept, and a great introduction to cutting edge art.

However I think the work within is not quite as interesting as that in "Cream 2" (or the similar survey, "Art Now"). The work somehow seems less intelligent original and compelling as the previous volume (though it is much better designed as a book.)

In light of the plethora of video work, I believe that such books should be accompanied by a CD or DVD with sample clips of the video art, as did the last Whitney Biennial catalogue (albeit with a CD for audio art). Unlike flat art or sculpture, visualizing moving images with stills is a bit like trying to comprehend the 5th dimension in our 3 dimensional world.

It is quite amazing how the former hegemony of New York has been replaced by a globalize art world (perhaps part due to public spending outside the US). The editors of the Cream series have taken pains to accelerate this trend of globalization to a significant advantage.

Nevertheless, I have one caveat on this subject. I know that the curators cannot represent every country in the world, but they have not mentioned one artist in Australia and New Zealand - both (interrelated) counties that are now producing quite outstanding and innovative art that often goes unnoticed in the Northern hemisphere.

Stay Current!!!!
For art lovers and artists alike, staying current with modern art is an essential. Thje Phaidon Cream series is your ticket to remaining on top of your game. This latest version has large photographs of each artist's works, along with a short description about their concepts. A must-have for studio artists, instructors, critics and your average art enthusiast!!

Cool Book Design / interesting artists
The book design is pretty damn cool! -- a black and red hard cover with a magnetic front closure...most of the artists I never had heard of before so that made it interesting; I especially enjoyed the essay on photographer Patrick McMullan -- concentrating on his backstage work at Men's fashion shows. Very interesting and I love his work! ... Read more

Book Description

Dan Brown’s thriller The Da Vinci Code has created an extraordinary controversy, with its sub-plots of the sacred feminine in religion, the bloodline of Christ, the legend of the Holy Grail, and the role of sects like Opus Dei within the church.This Rough Guide explores and explains the context of the novel, including:- How the early Christian Church ‘edited’ The Bible, and drew on earlier religions. - What art historians make of Leonardo Da Vinci’s symbolism in "The Last Supper" and other works. - The true history of the Holy Grail, the Priory of Sion, and the debate on Mary Magdalene and the bloodline of Christ. - Location guides to Da Vinci Code sites in Paris, Rome, Jerusalem, New York, London and Edinburgh. - Reviews of Da Vinci Code sources and a glossary of everything from the Templars to the Fibonaccci Sequence.

Whatever you think of Dan Brown’s novel, this Rough Guide has the key to understanding its wider background. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Very Readable Guide
There have now been more than a handful of books promising to sort out the fact and fiction in Dan Brown's phenomenally successful DVC.I recommend this one by the Haags because it is very readable, in the best tradition of the Rough Guides.Physically, it is what a pocket-sized book should be like: handy and portable.Even more importantly, the book is readable in the sense that it is mostly (except a few pages between pp.140-8) comprehensible by itself even for those who have not read DVC, and enjoyable in its own right by laying out in an informed and stimulating manner the many contexts of DVC.
I confess that I fail to locate the errors claimed by another reviewer.On my copy (p.90), it is stated correctly that Urban II started the crusade in 1095.Neither did the Haags (p.131) deny the existence of the word "symbology", only that there was no such academic department or professorship at Harvard.I also disagree with the previous reviewer that the Haags are in the debunking mood of discrediting the premises and evidence of Brown's theory/plot.Quite the contrary, I find them very even-handed and are always being fair and objective to the allegations and allusions in DVC.For a book that is not academically oriented, this scholarly impartiality is admirable enough.If the book appears at times confusing, it may be because the Haags are trying to make (the best) sense of what is in fact not very defensible and coherent in DVC itself.The Haags are not even hostile to myth and legend as such.Indeed, any serious and sincere understanding of myth-making (the making of ANY myths including those endorsed by the power that be or embraced by the general public) should lead us not to the kind of triumphalism found in so many debunkers of DVC, but make us humble regarding OUR own collective or personal myths we live by.Under this light, the Haags raise many important historical and religious questions, e.g. how historical is history itself?, why is it hard for the Church to accept the fully human sexuality of Jesus?I propose that the only profitable way of reading a novel like DVC is NOT to take it too seriously by confusing fiction with fact, instead we should take it seriously enough by exploring the questions and contemplating the possibilities it opens up.

Really useful and fascinating book
I found this Rough Guide to The Da Vinci Code the best book about the questions raised by Dan Brown's thriller.In fact it is a lot more than that -- it is a complete pocket reference book to the basic themes and ideas and facts of early Christianity, ancient history, goddess worship, the sacred feminine, and so on -- with a comprehensive glossary and lists for further reading and informative websites.I did notice one or two typographical mistakes, but why quibble?This book has meat!

poorly written, inconsistent
For a book that is criticizing Dan Brown's accuracy, I found this book poorly written and containing many mistakes.Did they rush to publish this before editing?Mistakes such as claiming that the first crusades were ordered by Urban II in 1145, or claiming that "symbology" is not a real word.At other times sentences and phrases are so jumbled that you cannot understand the meaning after re-reading 3 or 4 times.
I love Rough Guides, but this book was poorly edited and I expect better from this publisher.

This book gave me all the background stuff I was looking for
I had so many questions after reading The Da Vinci Code, and this book, which I just picked up in Britain before flying home, gave me all the background information I was looking for.I especially valued the chapters on Leonardo, the Gnostics and the Sacred Feminine, which opened my eyes to so many things in such a clear, concise and well written way.And there is a great glossary, which itself is like a mini guide to The Da Vinci Code.And really helpful maps and location guides to places which feature in the book, like Paris and London, and even Jerusalem.What a thoughtfully organized and comprehensive book this is.

This Book is the Holy Grail!
Everyone wants to know the truth about what Dan Brown writes in The Da Vinci Code, and I can think of no better way to fill yourself in on the background than to read this book.It has stuff on the sacred feminine and Mary Magdalene, on early Christianity and how the Bible was edited, on Leonardo da Vinci's paintings such as The Last Supper and the Mona Lisa, and the true history of the Templars and the Priory of Sion.
It also has location guides to Paris, London, Edinburgh, Rome, New York and Jerusalem, with plenty of maps.
Plus reviews of books and websites where you can continue your investigations, and a really helpful glossary on everything from corporal mortification to the Fibonacci Sequence.
I got a copy of this book over in England the same day it was delivered into the bookstores.It is really fantastic.And at this price I can afford to give copies as presents to everyone I know.I cannot recommend it highly enough. ... Read more

Book Description

The Spectrum annual, now in its seventh year, has established itself as the premier venue for science-fiction art. Drawn from work created for advertisements, books, comics, magazines, art galleries, and the portfolios of some of the finest fantastic artists working today, the illustrations in this collection extend the boundaries of the imagination and explore new realms of creativity. Spectrum 7 promises to be the most exciting edition yet, packed with over 200 full-color paintings, drawings, and sculptures by Michael Whelan (12-time Hugo Award winner), James Christensen (The Voyage of the Bassett), James Gurney (Dinotopia), Gregory Manchess (artist for Star Wars: The Phantom Menace), Bob Eggleton (The Book of Sea Monsters), and scores of others. This edition also features an illustrated tribute to Grand Master Award recipient Alan Lee (Faeries, Black Ships Before Troy). ... Read more

Reviews (9)

A book I still pull out and go through from front to back.
I bought this from Amazon over 2 years ago (just getting around to rating it :)) and it is still near the top of my read pile.This book has made me want to collect the entire series.Top quality.

Huge Collection
This book is absolutely huge and well worth the money. It is crammed full of amazing fantastic and science fiction images. There is a large variety of subjects that will fascinate anyone with a love for the fantastic. I would recommend this book for anyone who loves art. In my humble opinion, this is the best Spectrum book to date.

The series is getting better, but is the art?

I've been following the development of the Spectrum series since the first volume, and I must admit that the series - as a publication of artworks - is getting better.The layout is more thought out, the artworks presented are sufficiently annotated and marked.On other hand, I wonder whether the makers of this book feel like they have to fill up more pages and therefore sometimes go amiss in their choice of good fantasy art.Nevertheless, this is an excellent collection of works of fantasy (and fantastic) art, especially good as a first step in the exploration of the field.Those new to the genre might choose the Spectrum series as a beginner's guide to fantasy art and use it as a jumpboard for further research of this creative branch of art.

Great inspirations.....
I love the Spectrum series, and this one fits in with the rest of them perfectly. While much of the art is truly innovative and skilled, there are always a good number of pieces that slip by the judges as 'quality' and make it into the book, making it disappointing at times. Next to the well-chosen genius of Dave McKean, Phile Hale, Tony DiTerlizzi and the like, we are oppositely bombarded with the cliches that make fantasy art laughable - large chested, scantily clad women done without skill or grace. I mean, what's up with the devil-chick on page 74? More and more quick photoshop 'works' are worming their way into the competition, making the painter obsolete and reducing the real intellectual thought, whimsy and quality of this series.

I'll collect 'em anyhow. It's an amazing source of inspiration for the aspiring fantasy illustrator. If not from the great works, the poor works, at which one can say 'I can do better than that, ...!' [and then try their hand at it]

Bujan
Great book, though there are a couple of works that from my point of view are below the quality of the book. But it's still a great book. ... Read more

Book Description

The California Pop-Up Book is a creative exploration of the California experience through 3-D op-ups, pull-outs, booklets, and narratives. Produced jointly by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and Universe Publishing on the occasion of the LACMA exhibition Made in California: Art, Image, and Identity, 1900-2000, this extraordinary book highlights the dynamic relationship between the arts and the way the Golden State has been portrayed and conceived in the popular imagination. Whether promoted as the Edenic paradise early in the twentieth century or viewed as a mulitcultural metropolis of the future in our own time, California has exerted a profound fascination the world over for more than a century. Arranged chronologically form the Gold Rush to the Walt Disney Concert Hall (scheduled to open in 2003), this commemorative book will be a keepsake for audiences worldwide.

Filled with an array of surprises, the book features many of California's great treasures fashioned into pop-ups pop-ups, including:

-Balboa Park, San Diego
-Pierre Koenig's Case Study House #22, Los Angeles
-Chicano Park, San Diego
-Egyptian Theatre, Hollywood
-Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
-Hearst Castle, San Simeon
-The Mission Inn, Riverside
-Sea Ranch, Sonoma County
-Frank O. Gehry's Walt Disney Concert Hall, Los Angeles
-Watts Towers, Los Angeles

Other places visited in The California Pop-Up Book:

-Central Avenue, Los Angeles
-Disneyland Park's Tomorrowland, Anaheim
-The Gamble House, Pasadena

Paper engineers have created unique pop-ups and pullouts of original works by California artists:

-David Hockney's Mulholland Drive
-Edward Ruscha's Standard Station
-Robbert Flick's Wilshire Boulevard
-Gilbert "Magu" Lujan's Our Family Car
... Read more

Reviews (2)

The Real California - in Three Dimensions
The book looks like it might just be a decorative coffee table item, but the content belies that impression. The pop-ups are fun and attractive, but the real story is in the choice of objects and the writing. The selections speak to the myth of California that was consciously created by early explorers, developers, and movie moguls but became its own reality as people migrated to the state ready to play the roles the myth-makers created for them. In exposing the history through objects and some remarkable writing by such as Lawrence Ferlinghetti, Carolyn See, Graham Nash, Alice Waters, Terry Gilliam, and Richard Rodriguez, the pre-mythic history and the development of a true California culture emerges...one in which the tinsel is a little tarnished around the edges, but glows as brightly as ever with its own special light.

A Novelty Worth Having
As a California historian and author of the book: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA MISCELLANY, I found this California pop-up to be a charmingly fun novelty book to share when company comes over. ... Read more

Book Description

Tom Friedman is an unusual young American sculptor who produces quirky yet beautiful sculptures out of household objects – pencils, plastic cups, laundry detergent, paper straws. Featured in cream and in a one-person presentation at The Museum of Modern Art, New York, Friedman has quickly gained an impressive following of some of the most attentive and influential contemporary art-watchers in the United States. This is art which raises questions about the making and seeing of art, about the pleasures of small transformations producing sudden beauty. This book will coincide with Friedman's first major American museum tour, to be held in 2000–2002.American art critic Bruce Hainley examines the artist's work as a kind of giant self-portrait. Poet and novelist Dennis Cooper discusses with the artist such unexpected influences as contemporary electronic music. Guardian art critic Adrian Searle looks at the artist's work Untitled, 1993 – a ring of plastic cups in a home-made Minimalist tradition. The Artist's Choices are The Dinner Party (1919) by Swiss writer Robert Walser, and the glossary to Info-Psychology (1975–76) by Timothy Leary, the cult psychologist who advocated the use of psychedelic drugs. Facsimiles of the artist's notebooks and text works are published alongside an important interview by curator Robert Storr. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Fascinating to Look at
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.

Great artist, Great collection
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. ... Read more

Book Description

When he first started in commercial illustration, Dave Nestler's innate ability to capture likenesses got him plenty of assignments for film and television. Always a fan of the pin-up, and inspired by such greats as Vargas and Sorayama, Dave also created a series of stunning erotic portraits that got him the attention of Playboy Magazine. It wasn't long before he would star in gallery showings, and command fine-art prices for his illustrations. For those not quite ready to mortgage the house, here for the first time is a collection of these full color masterworks for your own personal admiration. The Art of Dave Nestler is an over-sized presentation, 48 pages in glorious full color, printed on heavyweight coated stock - every page worthy of a frame and a spotlight of its own. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

GREAT! (except for the design)
WOW. This is a real work of research. The amount of detail and care that has gone into this study of Warhol's early paintings is not to be believed. The editors have compiled a completely staggering amount of information about each work shown here--and who knew there were so many original paintings?

My only complaint is the book's design, which doesn't seem to have anything to do with Warhol's own aesthetic. The pictures are beautiful, but the words are tough on the eyes--the table of contents is especially awful. This is really a shame, because you can see pictures of Warhol paintings in lots of places. I don't know where you'd find all this wonderful data, though. (Put it on CD-ROM!)

It's definitely an expensive book, but unmatched, as far as I can tell, in its field. Bravo! ... Read more

Book Description

One hundred years worth of quality Mexican popular art, including pottery, clay figures, marionettes, straw mosaics, Talavera, clay banks, coconut banks, laquerware, wood panels and rugs, from 1850-1950, is covered here with over 370 color photographs illustrating over 675 objects. Collecting hints are included in every chapter. The book concludes with room shots, illustrating many beautiful options for displaying collections. A values reference guide is also included. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Important contribution to the field of Mexican folk art
McMenamin's lavishly illustrated tome covers many areas of Mexican folk art, including certain forms specifically created for the American tourist market in the 1920's, 30's and 40's. Folk ceramics, talavera, textiles, furniture, wood carvings, popote or straw mosaics, lacquerware, loteria drawings and carved coconut banks are among the folk art genres included in this well-researched book. As a collector of Mexican folk art, I know only too well how difficult it is to find books in English on this subject; McMenamin offers both the serious scholar and the casual collector precious insight into many folk art forms that have almost completely disappeared or are languishing because of the acculturation that inevitably occurs with foreign contact. Popular Arts of Mexico (1850-1950) is a good, basic overview of areas other than traditional dance masks and Los Dias de Los Muertos-related folk art.

Simply "The Bible" for Mexican folk art lovers
Beautiful pictures, informed text! Collectors use this "Bible" as a reference to describe their Mexican folk art.

Most of the information is unavailable in other books.

Plus, the book is gorgeous.

The Bible of Mexican Popular Arts Collecting!
I was first told about Donna McMenamin's book "Popular Arts of Mexico" by a fellow collector of Mexicana who thought I might like it. I remember telling him I had too many other interest to get involved in such a broad field of collecting. At that time I was collecting the most basic of Mexican chotzkie, anything with a "Sleeping Mexican" on it seemed appropriate. Then I saw Donna's book. One word...Wow. I was first just blown away with the pictures, such clear and concise images. And the detail! Sadly, I was hooked. I started taking her book with me on jaunts to the antique mall where I would pick up anything that looked remotely similar. Can you say expensive? Eventually, because of the book, I was able to spot things on my own, which was great, and much cheaper. :-) Donna's book has opened up a whole new world of collecting for me. I had never seen a carved wood panel, known as "bas relief." When I saw the chapter in her book I just knew I had to own one. They are incredible and have now become a focal point in our collection of TRUE Mexican Popular Arts. OK, I still like sleeping Mexican things, but I'm crazy! :-) It would be difficult for me to say a collectibles book changed my life, I guess it seems so shallow, however, Donna's book gave me a new awareness of things that are amazingly beautiful. I'd say that's a positive life change. Can you say sappy book review? :-) ... Read more

Book Description

The co-creator of MAD and Little Annie Fanny finally gets the career retrospective he deserves.

Will Elder is widely regarded as one of the most influential cartoonists of the second half of the 20th century. And one of the funniest. He is best known for his artistic partnership with Harvey Kurtzman on all their most highly visible collaborations throughout their careers: MAD magazine, Humbug, Goodman Beaver, Trump, and Little Annie Fanny. At long last, Elder is getting the book he so richly deserves: Will Elder: The Mad Playboy of Art, a gigantic coffee table book collecting his best work from more than a half a century of drawing and painting.

The book will reprint a representative sampling of the work well-known to aficionados, including stories from the original MAD comic, independent efforts from Humbug, Help!, and Trump magazines, and Little Annie Fanny pages reproduced from the original, painted artwork. Above and beyond the known is the relatively unknown, obscure, or unpublished work, such as pages and spreads from a variety of magazines in the '50s and '60s that Elder contributed to (such as Pageant and Saturday Evening Post), the infamous Norman Rockwell painting parody slated for the 3rd, unreleased issue of Trump, hysterical gag sketches, celebrity caricatures, oil paintings done for his family, and more.

The book includes commentary by Hugh Hefner, Harvey Kurtzman, Jack Davis,Al Jaffee, Terry Gilliam, William Stout, and Jerry Garcia, who describe the impact that Elder's work had on satire and comic at in the second half of 20th century America. Elder himself comments on individual pieces, and Daniel Clowes, the author of Ghost World, supplies the introduction. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Excellent Art Book
Will Elder is one of the greatest artists in American history. Elder's works have appeared in magazines ranging from Mad to Playboy. Many of Elder's best works are parodies of such comic strips as Archie and Lil' Abner. Elder eventually became a full-time artist at Playboy Magazine and was one of Hugh Hefner's top assistants.

This is a must have book for all Will Elder fans.

An in-depth retrospective of the American satirist
Gary Groth and Greg Sadowski's Will Elder: Mad Playboy Of Art provides an in-depth retrospective of the American satirist known for his MAD comics. Will Elder packs in over a hundred pages of black and white and color illustrations from both popular and obscure magazines. The Goodman Beaver stories are reprinted for the first time in their original format, while paintings and sketches from Elder's other works document the personality and achievements of a zany artist.

The MAD-man is loose.
I was introduced to Bill (or Will, if you prefer) Elder in the early 1950's when I discovered MAD the comic. I had been a fan of Sunday color comics and Superman/Batman as a kid but the comic art of Bill (that's how he signed his work in MAD) Elder
was so stunningly exceptional it was an instant hit with me and my friends. I especially liked all the "extra gags" hidden around the panels that made reading his stories take just a little longer. And made re-reading a must. I followed Mr. Elder through MAD, Humbug, Trump, HELP! and finally Playboy. Collecting his other contributions to popular magazines, his "Hateful Thoughts" collection and covers whenever I saw one. His work is so distinctive in it's clean clear sometimes photographic images, yet so diversified with his ability to mimic other artist's styles. You can be fooled into thinking you're really reading a L'il Abner story until you catch his signature on the splash panel. I am delighted that there is so much here in this book from the full length of his career, but I would really hope that there is a volume 2 that picks up the missing pieces from Goodman Beaver and a few others. MAD has been reprinted as has Little Annie Fannie. We need the complete Elder to enjoy over and over for years to come. Complimenting the fantastic art is the narrative highlighting Elder's life and other achievements. This marvelous book will be a welcome addition to anyone's bookshelf. Especially if you have a funny bone. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Naked on rollerskates ...
I love this book and will be giving copies as gifts this Christmas. The series of magnetic postcards feature pulp covers, and the "Naked on Rollerskates" card alone is worth the price of the book. Absolutely gorgeous.

For that friend who 'has everything'
Pulp fiction revolving around the 'bad girl' theme is the topic of Bad Girls In The Big City..., a candid presentation of dramatic pulp paperback covers which display women at their worst. An added bonus: these are 'magnetic postcards' suitable for refrigerator display. A fine gift recommendation for that friend who 'has everything' - and a large refrigerator just asking for displays. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Gorgeous images, okay text
Lots of great images and info about Mary Kelly's important but hard to find art. It's a pity the texts aren't better. The interviewer (Douglas Crimp) embarrassingly doesn't seem to know much about Kelly's work, and the critical takes aren't really new or deep.

Overall, the new Phaidon series is beautifully-produced, but not really up to the standards the series once set, when it published more significant critical work and scholarhsip. These feel like candies: quick reads, nice pix, but nothing too deep and certainly nothing critical. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Misleading Title ? I was disappointed
When I purchased this book - Underground Art: London Transport Posters 1908 to Present - I expected it to contain ALL of the London Transport Posters from 1908 to the date of publication as implied in the title.

It does NOT. However, it does contain some 200 of them - but not ALL of them! The book is great for what it provides, but that's not why I purchased it. Don't you be fooled too.

A treasure!
I bought this book in London 10 years ago and it's never left my "at-hand" reading. Beautifully designed with thorough (if a bit dry) commentary, its variety of styles and graphic whimsy and innovation isinspiring. I've recommended this book to both designers and Anglophiles. ... Read more

Book Description

A companion to Elvgren Girls I. The artist was a master at combining the wholesome girl-next-door with the women men fantasize about. ... Read more

Book Description

"A Hirschfeld vibrates and "pops," capturing a fleeting moment, and never looks back."
-Frank Rich

Remarkable for their movement and expression, conveyed with only a few well- placed strokes of a pen, the drawings of Al Hirschfeld (b. 1903) have beguiled the American public for nearly 80 years. His deft technical mastery and droll wit have earned him wide recognition as one of the top caricaturists of all time.

Coinciding with an exhibition of the artist's work at the Museum of the City of New York, this delightful, affordable paperback showcases, for the first time, the artist's irrepressible view of New York life. From 1920s Harlem to the Algonquin Round Table, these cunning scenes-elucidated by curator Clare Bell's text and an introduction by New York Times columnist Frank Rich-form a portrait of the city's vanished cultural landscape that is as irresistible as it is unique.
109 illustrations, 10 in full color, 96 pages, 9 x 10" ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Look at this as an investment
Buy this book. It's very very cheap. If you stop and visit online book sellers as Alibris or even Abe books, you'll find out that the average price for Hirschfeld's books is 200 dollars. They are all out of print now (except for Hirschfeld Online) and one day, this one will be too. So do yourself a favor: if not because the guy is a genius and the illustrations are all spectacular, buy this book because you are a smart investor.

Genius in a bottle of ink
When my son was seven, he used to eagerly check the arts and leisure section of the Sunday New York Times each weekend to see if there was a new drawing by the "Nina Man". If there was, there would follow an intense exploration of the drawing, usually followed by a crow of delight, "I found the Ninas!" The "Nina Man" is, of course, Al Hirschfeld, still merrily among us at 99, and Nina is the name of is daughter, ingeniously hidden among the pen strokes of whichever person he was caricaturing. Hirschfeld is, purely and simply, a genius; a simple drawing brings out not only a person but a persona. The drawings in the book represent some of the best of his work, which spans six decades; and although the caricatures are named at the foot of the pages, the reader will have a lot of fun not only recognizing who the people are without the help of the captions, but also -- yes -- in searching for and finding the Ninas. ... Read more