Stunning and Inspirational
I purchased this in part because an art instructor was featured. Also, the exciting variations of book arts seemed well represented.
The book surpassed my expectations. Not only is it a survey of some of the most exciting artists in the field, with selections of their works, it offers a step-by-step view of their creations, with materials, techniques and equipment shown clearly. I could, if I wanted to, completely rip off their work. But as a thinking artist, I can look at these tutorials and know with certainty how to acheive novel effects while still remaining true to where I want to go from there and have my own viewpoint and message.
It is an art school between pages.
In addition, each artist's section includes inspirational work from other artists they enjoy or collect, whether or not in book arts. There are literally hundreds of leads to track down, if you're a researcher, or starting points for your own vision.
Beautiful full-color photographs and clear prose.
Finally, as a personal note, I brought this book to my mother, who does not understand my passion for this field, or assemblage, or other related arts. She is bright and creative, yet has very pedestrian artistic tastes. She wanted to find some way to relate to my work. I left it with her and asked her to flip through it, telling her this would be even better than a trip to a museum of book arts.
A week later, she returned it to me saying, "I know why you love this. How exciting."
I defy anyone interested in book arts to come away from this and not want to make something beautiful. More than that, if you've never "gotten" what the fuss is about, this will give you that understanding.
Very motivational
If you get inspiration by "thinking outside the box" then this book is for you. Even if you never make a book just like one of these examples, your bookmaking will take on a new dimension as you get creative ideas.
Bev in Arizona
Stimulating illustrations
this book illustrates clearly the scope of what is possible in making artists' books. Great to see the work of artists in the field.
Definitely worth having
This book is inspirational. I would recommend it to anyone interested in beautiful and well-made things.
Wonderful
This is a fabulous book. It has some projects in it, but I love to just look and soak it in. All my favorite bookmakers are included.Such imagination and vision. I haven't tried any of the projects. I just find the inspiration to be enough.
Peggy
(5 reviews)
