Book Description
Cutting-edge concepts, a beautifully illustrated text, and a dazzling array of award-winning design make the third edition of this standout best-seller one of the most highly acclaimed design texts in the world. Graphic Design Solutions continues to provide a clear and comprehensive introduction to graphic design and advertising design, with step-by-step visual solutions that readers can apply with confidence to their own design and advertising projects. A highly illustrative, straightforward assessment of developing winning graphic design solutions for a variety of media-including print, Web, television, and unconventional formats-helps designers think critically and creatively about their work while understanding the demands of the graphic design profession in today's world.
Customer Reviews:
Favorite Graphic Design Book.......2007-09-21
I just finished reading all but one or two chapters of this book for a class where this was the primary text. I have to say that this book goes everywhere with me and has become a favorite. Compared to the other text books I had this semester (and many others as well), this was a breath of fresh air. The writing was never dry and it never dragged. What I read really stuck with me and I looked forward to my weekly reading. Also having the exercises at the end of most of the chapters is wonderful for a student for further learning that truly is self-paced. I plan on doing most, if not all of these exercises for further practice. I am definitely going to have to look into Landa's other titles as well.
Best G.D. Book out there!.......2007-04-04
Was advised to buy from instrucor as additional class materials and found I love this book! Covers from core information to breaking down new media and cutting edge styles. Would not go without this book if you are interested in learning about graphic design as an art and a science. Great organization and use of information -good for any level designer.
Don't pay retail... GET IT ON AMAZON!
Graphics Student.......2007-02-23
I am taking a night course that required this book. Amazon.com had the best price. The book itself has many beautiful graphic illustrations and the text is fairly easy to read. It is not the total snoozer I thought it would be and has many fun projects to illustrate the points made in the text. All-in-all not a bad course book although this is not something I would have ever picked up for personal reading.
Great for Intermediate Designers.......2007-02-20
This book is a big help if you have been thrust into a job where you must come up with a great design for a poster or flyer. Gives you as many or as little steps as you think are necessary. Good reference.
Great Text For Art students.......2007-01-04
Combining great illustrations along with good information, this text truly delivers what many are lacking in. From print to web design, this book explores many facets of Design.
Book Description
Style: The Basics of Clarity and Grace reflects the wisdom and clear authorial voice of Williams best-selling book, Style: Ten Lessons in Clarity and Grace, while streamlining every chapter to create a very brief, yet powerfully direct guide to writing with style. The brevity and clarity of this book make it a quick and ideal read for freshman composition courses, as well as for writing courses across the disciplines. Style: The Basics of Clarity and Grace covers the elemental principles of writing that will help students diagnose their prose quickly and revise it effectively. The ten lessons feature principles of effective prose written in William's hallmark conversational style, offering reason-based approaches, rather than hard and fast rules, for successful, effective writing.
Customer Reviews:
very clear.......2006-08-14
I am a non native speaker, and even though my grammar is not too bad, my writing style has always been a source of frustration. At work, when comparing the texts I would write with the one of good native writers, I could see that theirs were better, but could not find why.
I bought this book based on the high reviews it got on amazon, and I was not disappointed. After reading a few pages, I scanned the research proposal I was writing at the time, and could already make significant improvements on it. The advices that the author give are sometimes quite simple, especially at the beginning of the book (for example : the main character should be the subjects of the verbs, which themselves should correspond to the main action). But surprisingly, I realized that I was rarely applying these simple rules of clarity. The author is never dogmatic, and insists that the only thing that matters is that the reader easily understands what we're writing. All throughout the book, numerous examples illustrate the concepts just introduced so that it is quite easy to test whether one has really got the point.
a gem.......2006-07-21
I found an used copy of " The Basics of Clarity and Grace" at bookstore. After reading 3/4 of the book I ordered two more copies. One copy for my son who is a journalist major and the other for my eldest son who writes good comedy. I liked its size and its no nonesense approach.
Better than Strunk & White, better than Turabian.......2005-12-19
The longer version of Joseph Williams "Style: Ten Lessons in Clarity and Grace" has been justly praised for many years. But as a director of writing programs at NYU, Princeton, and Yale, I never felt right adopting that text: it was too expensive, and more than the average student needed. This "Basics" Style is the perfect solution. All the brilliance of the longer book at 1/3 the price, "Style" perfectly balances explanations of style rules with practical examples. The rules that Strunk and White encourage are good ones, and American prose would be leaner if their precepts were universal. The problem with that book is that the advice is not explained systematically. You can use their suggestions when you face similar cases, but only Williams' text breaks down topics like elegance, coherence, and cohesion in ways that will let you carry the ideas into every text you write. I would not recommend this book for the casual 10th grader; although it's clearly written, its ideas are somewhat advanced. But for professionals, college writers, and any teenager who takes writing seriously, "Style" is an indispensable tool, a book you'll use for the rest of your life. For learning to write good college papers, I also highly recommend his "Craft of Research."
How Style Ought to Be Taught.......2005-07-13
Teaching style is not an easy task. Just look at the number of books on the market that portend to do this task, and it becomes obvious that not all authors succeed in their efforts. Some manuals attempt to teach by rules, others by persuasion, and still others by example. This book takes all three approaches and illustrates that the art of stylistic writing is a matter of know-how. Unlike most books in the field, I find this one generally successful.
The book's method is heuristic. It begins with causes of bad writing, and progresses to clarity, cohesion, emphasis, coherence, concision, length, and elegance. Each principle is given a bad examples compared to a good one. Direct, subject-verb-object writing is extolled, and certain anathemas of other texts are approved under the right circumstances. While I disagree with one its principles: That it is acceptable to begin a sentence with "There" and "It," these are minor quibbles in an otherwise strongly argued case.
Strunk & White's "Elements of Style" now has a major competitor, and this book is it. Whether one writes in fiction or non-fiction, the principles and examples given throughout this book are to be commended. I know of one author, a philosopher, who took these principles to heart. What once was ambiguous and contorted writing is now lucid, clear, and vivid. If this book can make this kind of progress, I certainly recommend it to all writers.
While on the subject of good writing, I also recommend Corbett's "Classical Rhetoric" for those authors who want to write convincing arguments. One on style, the other on substance. While William's book on style will make prose more readable, Corbett's book will make it more intelligible.
Truly great, smaller but updated version of his bigger book.......2004-01-24
This smallish book summarizes and updates "Style: Ten Lessons in Clarity and Grace (7th Edition)." I rank both books at least a "5 out of 5" ranking. I bought the "Style: Ten Lessons" book first and after reading his previous book, I wanted more from this author. This new book is a fitting treat; it is destined to be a classic in the field of writing.
This smaller 150 page book presents many easy-to-apply principles and, for me, were easier to understand.
The principles that I liked most were:
+ How nominalizations can be very good or very bad, depending on their purpose, or lack of it.
+ How to re-arrange sentences putting the new and most important ideas on the end; thus sometimes flipping the sentence around and making good use of the passive tense.
+ The importance of aligning the characters of your story with the subjects of your sentences, and using active verbs to make "interesting subjects do interesting things."
+ Why and how to keep the distance between subject, verb and object short.
There are many, many other writing principles that you will find very useful. Although this book is written for someone with writing experience, a beginner will also find it MOST helpful.
I recommend any budding writer to buy both books. The bigger, older book has more discussion. But I found this smaller, newer book easier to read and understand. I'm now reading his Craft of Research book, and it looks like a winner too.
This is an author whose books you should collect. He has become a highly recommended expert in the field of writing. Look at the reviews of the bigger book to see what others are saying. I am so happy that I found his books.
John Dunbar
Sugar Land, TX
Average customer rating:
- Mediocre Text, Hideous "Art"
- Hyper-glorified and shallow
- excellent primer on design
- An absolute classic for anyone working in the visual arts.
- A wonderful book for hs seniors and college freshmen
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Design Basics
David Lauer
Manufacturer: Wadsworth Publishing
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ASIN: 0155083775 |
Book Description
DESIGN BASICS is a popular introduction to two-dimensional design. Each concept is presented in a full two-page spread, making the text practical and easy for students to refer to while they work. Visual examples from many periods and cultures are provided for all elements and principles of design.
Customer Reviews:
Mediocre Text, Hideous "Art".......2006-12-05
I'm a designer and read this book because it is highly praised in design circles. Firstly, it's not a book on design but on art, though there is some graphic design but not nearly enough to satisfy someone learning about design. The book is relevant to design however, and the subjects covered definitely deserve study by designers.
The text is for the most part clear and each principle is explained and illustrated fairly well. But... you'd better enjoy (or at least be able to tolerate) modern non-art. The examples used are hideous and far outweigh the genuine art of masters such as Michelangelo, Canaletto, or even Degas. This is the critical flaw in this book. All of the points could have been far better illustrated with real art, and the book would thereby be enjoyable. Instead, the reader is subjected to the pseudo profundity of scribbles, smears and conglomerations of junk, accompanied by an enunciation of the one [!] principle the so-called artist did implement. And this was probably an oversight on the part of the "artist".
Related to this is that the periodic discussions regarding representational and modern art is, in my opinion, very disingenuous. The authors are quick to raise (what they see as) objections to representational art but give the perpetrators of modern nonobjective "stuff" a free pass, never questioning its merits or validity.
I did learn something from this book, it's hard not to because it covers a lot of material, but it was an exceptionally unpleasant task and the learning didn't come from the junk "art" but from the text. There is nothing unique in this book that you won't find covered elsewhere. I recommend elsewhere.
Hyper-glorified and shallow.......2006-04-05
If you're tempted to buy this hugely expensive book (for an over-sized, unwieldy paperback printed on medium-quality paper), think again.
Let me complement the book description for you: Each concept is VERY superficially presented in a full two- or four-page spread illustrated with pictures of works of art that are NOT examined in an enlightening way. The book is basically a long list of design principles so shallowly presented that it's just that: a list.
If a competent teacher were to transform this book into a slide show and orally explore each principle, it would probably make good material for three or four classes.
excellent primer on design.......2006-03-20
We used this as a textbook in an "interdisciplinary approach" course at a photography school. The organization of the book and the illustrations are excellent. Much of the information seemed familiar to us all, but we found the book to be an excellent reminder and good focus for discussion. It helped us with our critiquing of each others' work in a variety of media (sculpture, drawing, painting, collage, photography and writing).
An absolute classic for anyone working in the visual arts........2005-02-11
Back in college, two decades ago, one of my art professors required this book for every single one of his classes. He even offered to personally repay students who could not afford to keep their copy, if they promised not to sell it back to the bookstore. He told us that the best thing we could do for our careers in art was to keep this book. He was right. I've had my 2nd edition copy for twenty years, and no other book I've seen discusses visual theory so simply, logically and completely. The text is clear and straightforward and the examples are perfect, but it is Lauer's ability to organize a very complex subject into very specific, clearly-understood categories that makes this book remarkable.
A wonderful book for hs seniors and college freshmen.......2003-03-26
this book is the foundation for understanding composition, but it is no substitute for continued research in art and art theory...this book is a superb starting point...if you're in high school i suggest starting your reading in art with this...if you are in high school and you have already read this...then GOOD, you're going to need to continue reading, and start by rereading this...if you're a freshman in college, read this and goto the library and check out every book you can by an artist that you enjoy and read what they have written about their art and other peoples art...and in the meantime read this book...another hint, write down the name of every book you hear mentioned in any art text that you think might interest you, hell write all of them down...and then read those books...and keep reading...read read read, and when you're not reading, work on your own art or whatever you want to call it...and do not neglect your other classes, ie english 101, math 101, sciences, history, etc...those classes are just as important as any art class you will ever take...we're all students for the rest of our lives (it's just that some people prefer the term "artist" avoid them if you can...) and we'll keep learning for the rest of our lives...so get used to reading...and get used to taking criticism about your work..
Book Description
GRAPHIC DESIGN BASICS combines design principles, history, and current technology to present students a comprehensive introduction to the field of graphic design. Keeping pace with rapid changes in the field of design, while maintaining a consistently high academic quality, the text emphasizes design structure and visual perception with a wide range of visuals from throughout design history, as well as the latest contemporary illustrations and electronic designs. Each chapter provides assignments with student sample solutions, as well as critique sections to help students apply the concepts and assess their work. This market leader's interwoven combination of concept, history, and practice is rarely found in other Graphic Design texts.
Customer Reviews:
Some excellent parts, grossly misleading web design and computer info.......2007-08-23
I read the book cover-to-cover before writing this review. Generally speaking, it is a very good intro to basic "graphical design" concepts. The first half of the book, examples focus on specific concepts of good design, and explains them well without unnecessary verbiage.
For example, the writer correctly assumes that most people have less knowledge of good font usage than good picture usage. She explains that the space inside fonts must be considered as shapes that contribute to and can be used in design, not just the shapes of the letters themselves. She details the history of font families just enough to teach you why they are made the way they are.
I also learned that things like "Helvetica" are a font-FAMILY, not a specific font, and that DIFFERENT PEOPLE often make the specific fonts in a family, such as the various italic, condensed, and extended variations, and therefore the sizes often don't match. That's critical information for websites because you must ensure text on your page looks the way you want for various fonts/users. However, there really was not an direct explanation of all this, the information is scattered in a couple of chapters and is mostly hinted at when you read about how the "Univers" font-family was created to have an identical "x-height" regardless of the specific font used.
Things like repetition and visual weight are explained clearly and succinctly. The history of different design movements is given to allow students to analyze design approaches from various points of view.
Exercises for chapters are interesting. In earlier chapters, they have a very specific focus, and in later ones, students are combining design techniques. What I really like is that she mixes professional examples of design with those students created for a portfolio. Some of their work is quite good! There is just the right amount of great examples of professional work. If someone wants a complete collection of some of the best design work, it would be appropriate to pick up a copy of Problem Solved.
I (unfortunately) expect people in the "graphical design" field to ignore usability and accessibility in website design, and approach the subject with limited knowledge and a let's-show-off-the-eye-candy approach. However, Ms. Arntson goes beyond mere ignorance and directly contributes to the devil-may-care attitude with statements like, "you don't really need to learn HTML" and "create your webpage in PhotoShop".
She's even crass enough to include a list of "good website design" tips that would not even make the grade in an "HTML for dummies" book. Her idea of website "design" is using wizards (implied, since says don't learn HTML) to create tables and frames, and dragging-and-dropping buttons in a WYSIWYG program.
Even if she's no expert, she could have at least mentioned that while web design is a topic not covered but not difficult, it will be important for students to study cross-device (not just cross-browser) compatibility and accessibility issues as they develop good web design habits. Some necessities are not using frames, moving away from tables-based design, testing websites in a variety of browsers (including a text-based browser and a cell phone, or at least using "Shift+F11" in Opera to shrink the page to cell-phone size -- though that doesn't address the fact that cell phones and other devices don't do frames or even tables), and avoiding JavaScript except for non-essential eye candy.
She even claims that Flash automatically avoids download-time problems -- we all know that couldn't be further from the truth! Flash can be good or really, really bad, depending whether a person bothers to learn to optimize it. Not to mention, you might as well walk up to a blind person and slap them across the face.
She says that filenames must be eight characters because of different operating systems (Windows, Unix, etc.)...where in the heck did she get that idea? Any OS that can run a webserver understands long filenames, and has for years. Does she think people run webservers on DOS???
Everything before the last few chapters was immensely enjoyable and well-written. Even before all the explicitly WRONG web design info, though, she totally lost my respect when she said this: "The central processing unit (CPU), the main part of the system, houses the hard drive." OMG! HA! HA! HA! Did an editor even look at this book before letting it out the door???
This book is just proof that publishers will let anyone write a textbook even if they have no idea what they are talking about. That's not the only hilarious, completely computer-illiterate thing in Chapter 11. It's just the worst. She also thinks that you buy RAM chips individually and attach them onto the "memory boards" yourself. (No, Ms. Arnston...you can only buy the memory cards with the chips already attached, then you pop the cards onto your MOTHERBOARD.)
The thing is, this throws into doubt all the seemingly-interesting information in this chapter about preparing your work for the press, and the various types of press, and associated formats, because it seems like she doesn't even know how to use a computer. There's seemingly highly-informative information about graphics files and how the computer uses them (though I saw a minor error or two there), but I don't know if I should give the information any merit at all. I don't know if she wrote that part or someone else. In any case, someone else should have written the other computer-centric info, too. But really, publishers need to check teachers backgrounds (and work outside teaching) before they let them loose on a textbook!
If she only likes to work with traditional pen/paper she should at least say so. Of course, it could be that like many professors, she teaches in a field in which she hasn't actually practiced in decades. I can't see how else the "art" parts of the book would be so good and the computer- and website-related information so horrible. It's almost as though she went on a 3-day bender and then stayed up all night with a hangover to finish the book by deadline. I don't even truly know how to rate it, because the visual aspects of design are covered so well. It's like the book was written by Jeckyl and Hyde!
Should be 5 - but new it's too expensive.......2006-03-25
This is a great book, and as a former design educator, I always encouraged my students to look into this book. The basics of the practice are excellently covered. However most students balked at the price. Buy it used if you can. The Web chapter is really dated now.
A great introductory review of graphic design principles.......1999-08-24
This is a great introductory review of basic graphic design principles. The subjects covered include: foreground/background, form, structure, juxtaposition of elements on a page, gestalt perceptual theory, hierarchy, and typography. There is a bit of history, color theory, and computer-related issues. Overall, this is a sound book to recommend to an introductory graphic design class.
Book Description
As anyone who has undergone the transition from civilian to soldier will tell you, basic training is a lot tougher and more challenging than any recruit can imagine. Michael Volkin discovered that fact soon after 9-11, when his personal vow to serve my country convinced him to enlist in the U.S. Army.
As Volkin quickly discovered, he was utterly unprepared for the new world of the military, "a completely different environment full of unknown exercises and acronyms, where can't eat or talk without permission. Volkin began taking notes on everything and anything with the hope that no one else would have to go through basic training like I did completely unarmed with knowledge that would have eased my transition into the military and allowed me to be more successful.
During Operation Enduring/Iraqi Freedom, Volkin organized his notes, interviewed hundreds of other soldiers, and began to write. The result is The Ultimate Basic Training Guidebook, a unique and utterly indispensable guide to successfully coping with and thriving in today's military.
The Ultimate Basic Training Guidebook is a comprehensive, practical, and easy-to-follow survival guide written specifically for every new or prospective recruit about to enter any branch of the armed forces. Volkin's book offers step-by-step instructions and solutions, including helpful charts and graphics, for how to prepare both physically and mentally for boot camp. It includes a special eight-week fitness program specifically designed to improve your fitness test scores, specific study guides, an instructional How to"chapter, a list of what to bring (and not to bring) to basic training, tips for success, and much more.
The Ultimate Basic Training Guidebook was written by a soldier for men and women who want to become soldiers. No one should enter boot camp without having read this book.
Customer Reviews:
Not army boot camp anymore..........2007-09-07
This book has been super helpful in preparing my husband for boot camp- physically and mentally. The only problem is that we've learned that after the publishing of this book a lot changed in army boot camp. At first my husband was interested in joining the national guard, but in order to go to a boot camp like what is described in this book, he has to choose a different branch of military.
amazing..........2007-02-19
This book was packed with info that will benefit anyone interested in going into the militry. My hubby went through boot camp a few years ago and said that all of the info would have made life a little easier then...lol.
Incredible.......2007-01-17
This book has helped me in so many ways. I knew nothing about the military before I left for boot camp. Now, I feel I am completely ready. The book has an easy to understand fitness routine and told me what to expect mentally from a drill sergeant, even the other recruits. This book even contains a packing list so I know exactly what to pack for boot camp.
Before I was scared to leave for basic, now I cant wait.
Decent Book For Ultra-Noob.......2007-01-17
First off, there are many inaccuracies in this book which is odd considering it was written by a SGT (sergeant). The book is not as good as it could be but it's better than any other book on the military out there - as far as getting through basic training.
Overall, it's a helpful book because it will familiarize you with the Army and basic training. The Army is changing quick so some of the info is not relevant.
I'm a veteran of the Army and I think it could be beneficial. I'd recommend talking to recent basic training graduates and ask your recruiter lots of questions. There's also great info on the Army recruiting websites now.
Where Was This Book in 1965? .......2006-09-15
I always felt that my basic training experience back in 1965 would have been much better had I known something about what I was going to endure. Now, modern day Army recruits have at their finger tips, "The Ultimate Basic Training Guidebook" for surviving "boot camp"; and this is no exaggeration! Author Sgt. Michael Volkin has done a very creditable job of capturing all the needed information to survive basic training.
He gives you insights and how and why things happen and what you can do ahead of time to prepare yourself for that experience. I guarantee that if you follow his advice as outlined in his book that basic training will be much easier physically and emotionally for you. The keys from his many words of wisdom are to be prepared and to expect the unexpected.
This book is an absolute must for new basic trainees. It can make all the difference between failing mentally or physically and successfully enduring the training. Good photos illustrate physical exercises that will prepare you for the physical needs of basic. The guidebook also gives a good overview of what you should expect to happen from the time you arrive at your basic training facility and reception to graduation week. It takes you step by step through the whole program of training. More importantly, he gives the recruit some good personal advice on how to keep a low profile and stay out of trouble with your "Drill Instructors".
For those of us "old school" Army veterans from Nam or before --it is interesting to note that your DI can no longer physically hit you and kick you or punch you. Gone are the good old days of brutal and unrestrained Army training; but it still doesn't mean that it is any easier to complete. There are those physical elements of running and push-ups and sit-ups that will always continue to challenge new recruits.
Sgt. Volkin has broken his book into logical chapters that are both easy to read and understand. If you are going into the Army you will find this book even more helpful if you get your hands on a copy and read it prior to reporting. It will give you an edge over others. Your confidence will also be enhanced because you will actually be ahead of the game and will know more than the average recruit.
Book Description
Professional artists, photographers, gardeners, chefs, and even hosts trying to set a pretty table will welcome this handsome exploration of design principles. Through hundreds of photographs and accessible text, even the most abstract design concepts—such as rhythm and balance—become easy to visualize and understand. Find out how to manipulate visual elements, work within the design space, create attractive symmetrical arrangements, establish a focal point, and more. Examples of good design range from ceramics, jewelry, architecture, and painting to clothing, hair styling, gardening, sushi, and vintage movie posters. Plus, guided exercises help users grasp each principle.
Customer Reviews:
A clear (and gorgeous) presentation.......2007-10-02
As a beginning student of design, I've been looking at a number of texts. This is the best I've come across so far. The concepts are presented concisely and in a well-organized format. The illustrations are superb, drawing from a number of crafts, media, and styles. The tone is friendly and encouraging. Recommended highly!
Easy Reading Design Education.......2007-08-07
This book is a very good choice if you are looking to broaden your horizons in design. There are lots of pictures for examples, and the text is easy reading.
Well-written guide with a wide range of aesthetically pleasing examples........2007-01-09
The book is well-written and the examples include some stunning and unusual pieces of art and craft (including painting, photography, pottery, needlework, quilting and more). It is an excellent introduction to design for beginners (artists, craftsmen and art-lovers) but even intermediate readers will find it useful.
A Great Resource.......2006-08-17
This book is a great resource. It is packed with exciting, richly varied visuals and clear, informative exercises that will enrich daily appreciation and application of principles of good design all around us. As a professional artist and teacher, I enjoy this book for myself as well as share it with my students. Design! is a great resource for the student or professional.
A pleasant reading.......2004-10-15
True! Design is everywhere you look but if you don't understand what you are staring at then design is useless. Fortunately, Steven Aimone's Design! will open up your mind and guide you to see the purpose of design. What are descriptive, narrative, emotive, utilitarian, and decorative of designs? What are the elements of design (lines, shapes, textures, colors, etc.)? Why are a certain elements arranged they way they are? Why is design space important? If you're unclear about the answers to these questions, this book will help you straightened out.
As someone who gets involved with web design as a passion, I had no prior training on design. While my classes at La Salle were too busy shoving down Photoshop, Illustrator, Flash, and other software programs, the fundamentals of design were not part of the curriculum. One of our art professors realized the important of the missing part and tried to cover it but the class was not as successful as it should be. The hands on assignments she gave us (the black squares exercises) were definitely on the right track but most of my classmates thought they were kindergarten because the theories were missing. If she had this book to accommodate her assignments, the class would have been a huge success; therefore, Design! should be a required textbook for any Art 101 or Introduction to Visual Design classes at colleges and universities.
Design! is not only an invaluable design inspiration but an enjoyable reading as well because of its easy to read approach and clear visual examples. I recommend this book enthusiastically to anyone who designs for a living or pleasure and to anyone who simply enjoys and appreciates the aesthetic qualities from the work of art.
Customer Reviews:
Art for study's sake.......2005-09-09
In the introduction to this revised seventh edition, Anthony Janson (whose father, H.W. Janson, still has top billing for the volume) talks about the long tradition he and his father have had toward this volume and the larger work that carries the same name. It has been a standard in Western art education for decades, and the revisions periodically placed serve to bring new interpretations, perspectives and finds into the mix of history.
Prior to diving into the depths of art, Janson provides a primer - art history is a relatively new discipline, and often studied by historians and others with interest but relatively little training in artistic areas themselves. This book is about the visual arts (those of drama, music, etc. are not included here, but architecture is to some degree); Janson gives a brief survey of key concepts that are critical to understanding the mediums (artists, Janson states, prefer to use the plural of medium as mediums rather than media). Geometric and visual appreciation concepts are introduced, as are philosophical/aesthetic ideas.
The majority of the text is divided into four broad sections: The Ancient World, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance through the Rococo, and the Modern World. This is a book that really a survey or history of Western art - it does have a brief section at the beginning of the Ancient World on cave art and neolithic art in North America, but apart from this never wanders outside the main courses of Western art even in the modern period. As an introductory text, this is not surprising - many of the values and concepts of art in non-Western cultures require more explanation for adequate aesthetic appreciation of their art than an introductory survey course could cover. Still, it is a deficit worthy of note for those who are looking for a more comprehensive volume.
The Ancient World covers art of Egypt, the Fertile Crescent and Persia, Aegean/Greek art, Etruscan art, and Roman art. The section on the Middle Ages begins primarily with the rise of Christendom as the dominant political power - this includes Byzantine art, early Medieval art (Carolingian and Ottonian times), Romanesque, and the ascendancy of the Gothic style, including the great Abbey of St-Denis. The Renaissance focusses early on Italy, but also explores the Renaissance influences in Spain, Germany, the Netherlands, France, and England. The Modern Period is the most diverse, with movements such as Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Impressionism, Art Nouveau and other schools that had a greater tendency to cross national boundaries. The twentieth century brought about a great explosion of artistic expressions, in architecture, sculpture, painting and photography, each of which get a chapter. While the fourth section begins with a discussion of modernism, it ends with the discussion of post-modernism, a period of transition.
The colour reproductions throughout are stunning, and the use of black-and-white images to highlight details is also useful. Two-thirds of the 600 illustrations are in colour. The photographs showing architectural styles are interesting, far from being boring 'sample' shots. The text is engaging and informative, achieving a good balance between the artistic, the philosophical and the historical. There are maps, chronological tables, a glossary of terms, suggestions for further readings arranged topically, and a very useful index (always a plus for students and scholars).
The predecessor edition was entitled 'A Basic History of Art'; this one has added the word 'Western' to the title, very appropriately. This new edition has included new essays in the introduction, including 'The Power of Art', 'The Impact of Context', and 'Experiencing Art in Museums'. The maps and timelines have been revised, and there are new Cultural Context boxes alongside the text. Also, 'Materials and Techniques' pull-quote boxes give an explanation of principal art practices, methods and conventions through history.
Book Description
Less is more: finding perfection in purity
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (1886-1969) was one of the founding fathers of modern architecture. The creator of the Barcelona Pavilion (1929), the Farnsworth House in Plano, Illinois (1945-1951) and the Seagram Building in New York (1954-1958), Mies was one of the founders of a new architectural style. Well known for his motto "less is more," he sought a kind of refined purity in architectural expression that was not seen in the reduced vocabulary of other Bauhaus members. His goal was not simply building for those of modest income but building economically in terms of sustainability, both in a technical and aesthetical way; the use of industrial materials such as steel and glass were the foundation of this approach. Though the extreme reduction of form and material in his work garnered some criticism, over the years many have tried—mostly unsuccessfully—to copy his original and elegant style.
This book explores more than 20 of his projects between 1906 and 1967, from his early work around Berlin to his most important American buildings.
Customer Reviews:
hand book about Mies works.......2007-05-15
it' nice to have it in your colection or a travelling pack. you can starts to explore his works and get a idea about him. its ideal for the students, but if your looking for more minimalist details and plans you better find a another.
nto bad.......2007-05-13
this books introduce lots of important works of Mies Van Der Rohe
If you're his fan or like the art works of the Bauhaus
this book is a good option to know the artist
Interesting but not great.......2007-04-25
I wish I had more floor plans and pictures and also more buildings.
Not bad though for the price.
One of the Fathers of Modern Architecture.......2007-04-07
Mies Van Der Rohe is one of the father's of Modern Architecture. He began his career in Germany before the Great War and ended it in the United States in the late 1960's. Not only did he design some of the most iconic buildings and furniture of the Twentieth Century, Mies was also a teacher who deeply influenced generations of architects. We see his influence in cities throughout the world.
The volumes in Taschen's Basic Architecture Series are a must for anyone interested in the history of architecture. At $9.99 a volume, they are an affordable and attractive introduction to the works of the most influential architects of the past century. The sole hesitation I have with this volume is Claire Zimmerman's writing style. She writes in a flowery academic style that is off putting. However, at $9.99 a volume, you cannot go wrong. Recommended.
Customer Reviews:
good starter.......2007-05-31
The book could use a bit more detail in the instructions. If you've seen his show(s), or had some art instruction, you'll have a better understanding of the technique and what he's talking about & be fine. Someone starting from scratch may have a few questions, but will be able to figure it out or contact Jerry on his web site. Photos are clear. The paintings he's demonstrating in the book are chosen from TV or DVD's/videos he has available. I'd suggest buying the books & DVD's together as they are a great compliment to each other. Jerry is an accomplished artist and a wonderful teacher. There's always something to learn from him and he's always willing to share the tricks of the trade to help make his students better artists.
Great Beginners Book.......2007-05-19
This is a great beginners book that gradually exposes you to painting techniques. Its amazing what you can do with this book. I recommend it highly!
Painting Basics.......2007-01-08
After watching Jerry Yarnell's TV show a few times on PBS, they stopped showing it. I wanted more from Mr. Yarnell and found he has written several books. The books are clear and informative and the pictorials are great.
This Book is NOT Basic.......2007-01-08
Way too difficult for beginners due to a lack of specific instructions.
Outstanding!.......2006-04-19
I am a big Jerry Yarnell fan. He is an excellent teacher and it really shows in his instructional books. I had the good fortune to attend one of his workshops, and really learned a lot. I expect to be able to continue to learn from these books.
From what I can tell, the books do not have to be followed in a specific order. I have the first four volumes in the series. What I plan to do is to work on the techniques presented in this first volume and at that point, I'll just pick paintings from his other books that I like.
The paintings are selected to help you develop specific techniques that will be of good general use and he gives step by step instructions and includes color photographs of the paintings at each stage to give you an idea of what each step should look like.
He gives instructions for mixing the colors required at each step too. He doesn't give an exact formula for the colors since brands and grades of paints vary so much. What he does do is to give you the colors and a relative idea of how much to use of each. You then can develop your eye by mixing until the color looks right. It doesn't take long to figure it out and it is much better for developing your color mixing skills than a rote formula.
Jerry also uses a limited number of colors in his palette. This really help with developing you color mixing skills too. He tell you what brushes you need and how to use them as well.
If there is another set of instructional books that is better than these, I haven't found them.
If you go to his web site [...] and click on Books, you can see slide shows of the paintings that are taught in each book. This will give you a better feel for which ones you want to try.
Average customer rating:
- Using Book for Graphic Design begin class
- A complete disappointment
- Excellent Primer on Design
- The perfect starting point.
- Coherent and Accessible
|
Basics of Design: Layout and Typography for Beginners
Lisa Graham
Manufacturer: Cengage Delmar Learning
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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ASIN: 0766813622 |
Book Description
Read the Prose. Study the illustrations. And apply what you have learned to design your own pages. It's easy with Basics of Design; Typography and Layout for Beginners! This heavily illustrated, compact guide is ideal for readers with no graphic design or art education background who need to create first-rate visual page designs. Entrepreneurs challenged with designing their own business cards, and administrative assistants suddenly put in charge of producing newsletters and fax cover pages, are just two examples of readers who benefit from the information in this primer. Its uniquely conversational tone - combined with numerous "before" and "after" illustrations- provides everything needed to design pages as effective as those of professional designers. Part One introduces readers to important design principles, as well as how to use color and images to add impact to designs. Part Two concentrates on the basics of typography. Part Three features a number of common design projects of the variety frequently assigned to non-designers (.., company business cards, fax cover letters, graphical and statistical reports, and more). To further aid readers, each project is accompanied by a brief listing of some of the special considerations involved in that type of visual page design. The final chapter of the book lists useful design books and resources for readers interested in advancing their typography and layout skills.
Customer Reviews:
Using Book for Graphic Design begin class.......2006-02-23
There are just enough illustrations. The chapters are setup in a way to support teaching a begining Graphic Design class. Exercises, a mini quiz and examples are built into each chapter-subject of good basic design.
Book lays flat when going through the pages and the binding should hold up through many page turning days.
A complete disappointment.......2005-10-25
The book contaings a whole lot of reading but very little illustration. I do not understand how the author anticipated to convey design, layout and typography by writing about it only. A book like this must be full of illustration. To write about design without illustrating them is an oxymoron. I would definitely not recommend this book for beginners.
Excellent Primer on Design.......2005-09-28
This book takes you through the basics of the page design process, focusing in each chapter on one of a number of themes such as contrast, repetition and alignment (and several others). I'm not an expert but have designed pages off and on for some years and this book was a breath of fresh and inspirational air. It is clear, useful, has loads of examples and, above all, it had an instant impact on my page designs from CV to web page to software interface to data sheet. Highly recommended. As comparison, I bought another book at the same time on typography, didn't learn a thing about design, and set it aside having suffered pages of historical theory.
The perfect starting point........2004-09-13
There is not much mistaking the purpose of this book judging from the title. It is for beginners, and it delivers admirably. Graham takes the reader step by step and in a very systematic way through the basic tenets of graphic design. Each chapter deals with a specific aspect of design and how the reader can use it to communicate more effectively. Graham gives plenty of examples of what to do as well as what not to do and the text is well illustrated, though it could have used more examples in color. That is a small criticism though and one that does not really detract from the book in any way. The beginning designer will come away from this book with a firm foundation in design and with skills that they will utilize for the rest of their career. If you are looking to learn about graphic design then this book is the perfect starting point.
Coherent and Accessible.......2004-02-19
A friend of mine recommended this book as a solid introduction to graphic design. The author, Lisa Graham, covers the principles of design effectively and even throws in some unexpectedly funny explanations that really make the point. For example, the beginning of the Balance chapter is hilarious and made me realize that a page really can make a person feel weird, if it isn't designed using the design principles. Once I read that balance chapter, I realized that many of her illustrations also were surprisingly humerous, and reveals what must be a delightful sense of humor.
If you buy this book, keep in mind that the humor is used to support the points Graham makes, and is not the sole focus of the book. This is after all a design book and makes some serious and informative points.
Perhaps what is most effective about this book is the thorough explanations she gives on why a design works and why it doesn't work. This is a refreshing change from many other introductory design books that I looked at where the primary focus of the text seemed to be to show off pretty pictures. Pretty pictures are nice, but WHY do the designs work? WHY don't they work. Basics of Design tells you why, and in such a wonderfully understandable way that you remember, and easily apply what Graham teaches.
Good job Lisa. When are you going to write more books on graphic design? I'll be sure to keep an eye out for more of your work!
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- History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)
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