History: Fiction or Science? (Chronology, No. 1)

Book Description

Recorded history is a finely-woven magic fabric of intricate lies about events predating the sixteenth century. There is not a single piece of evidence that can be reliably and independently traced back earlier than the eleventh century. This book details events that are substantiated by hard facts and logic, and validated by new astronomical research and statistical analysis of ancient sources.

Customer Reviews:

Calculations are only as good as your numbers.......2007-08-03

Yes, we can all agree that mainstream history is nearly 100% BS due to politics, economics, ego, problems with dating techniques, and various conspiracies. Agreed. But, I've been researching the distinct possibility that human history (in terms of civilizations) are much more ancient than we've been told, so coming across this book was very interesting to me. I wondered how Fomenko could be wrong (if at all) because he is very persuasive in his presentations. Then it dawned on me. If at previous times in prehistory, due to the various catastrophies that are well documented (comets, asteroids, planetary disruptions, plasma discharge, pole reversals, etc) the Earth was in a different position in relation to the sun, different tilt on its axis, different orbit, different rotation (in terms of velocity and DIRECTION), and the continents were in different positions, then would this not cause the ancients to see the sky (constellations) differently? In other words, is Fomenko making erronious assumptions about the physics of the Earth in pre-history, which then corrupt his data with regards to dating the relevant astrology? The last event to seriously disrupt our planet occured roughly 3500 years ago, according to other good researchers, so is it possible Fomenko has been confused by this? The vastly different physics of our planet in the not so distant past may explain this confusion, which is not to say the "mainstream" version of history is correct; on the contrary. I am not an expert in these fields, but wanted to see if this idea could spark discussion.

Pants on fire?.......2007-07-19

Will people ever read before spamming? Yes, Jesuits could not rewrite world history alone, they had help. Anyway, Dr Prof Acad A.Fomenko does not point to jesuits as the driving force of world wide history manipulation in published volumes 1,2,3;, actually he barely mentions the poor devils. Check it with 'Search inside' feature, please. China is rarely mentioned either, in fact, Dr Fomenko is completely eurocentric. Right, his theory contradicts all mainstream schools of history, because in their actual state they are all built on blatantly erroneus chronology. You don't need a mysterious cabal (conspiracy) to falsify history, the falsification is its modus operandi. It is inherent to history(ians) to falsify (distort) events, as it is inherent to humans to boast as it is inherent to power (authority) to legimize itself by referrring to glorious past made to its own order. Dr Prof Fomenko and team have identified scores of instances of such manipulation in Russian, European, etc.. history, and delivered valid statistical proof thereof. His own 'reconstruction' is completely another story. Forget c14 as a valid method of dating. W.Libby has initially discovered a brilliant method of INDEPENDENT dating. Too bad, c14 method has become a joke after a forced marrige with dendrochronology with consensual chronological scale inbuilt. Radiocarbon method can't stand blind tests, but is so very productive as a rubberstamp.

Accepted History & Chronology Must Be Changed. .......2007-04-09

There is no doubt that history as most know it is a sham, & institution's version of History both University & Church is fradulent & inaccurate. Everything was established with an agenda, The real "Dark Ages" are now when we have access to incredible amounts of information past authorities & more important 'common folk' didn't have but our institutions & educators are slow to evolve because of what has ignorantly & arrogantly been taught for too long. This is on many subjects not just Chronology.

For anyone to question "Why would a Mathematician have anything credible to say of History?" The answer is from Dr. Fomenko's preface in the book: "It would be worthwhile to remind the reader that in the XVI-XVII century Chronology was considered to be a subdivision of Mathematics." These volumes could possibly be some of the most important works to date & should be read by everyone with an interest in History, especially professors & educators who have a duty to the public. I have read both books & must say that 'Chronology 1' has some very eye opening & revolutionary information. Even if these volumes are part true the implications are profound & opens the doors to further investigations & questions which must be done. I speak several different lanquages & must say the logic Dr. Fomenko uses with "inflection" of words & words being read from left to right in one region & right to left in another then written backwards, the removal of vowels & get down to basics of words, or different cities & locations having the same name etc. is correct. Vowel usage has always been optional & varied, actually complicating linquistics & study. The first thing one has to understand is that words never had a fixed spelling in history like we do now, the spelling of words was mutable & regional, as well as names & titles of people were vast, varied & changed, NOTHING WAS FIXED or understood linear. Matters of Life & Death as well as financial profiteering yesterday & today were & are made with ignorant, illogical & conspiratorial views of history & reality, it's time people get closer to the Truth & society collectively grow up.

Very Interesting.......2007-03-07

It is a good proposal and I believe it will mature into something even better in the future. I think it deserves to be read.

History as Science Fiction.......2007-01-10

Anatoly Fomenko has written a very intriguing book, full of pictures, charts, and computer 'proof' of his thesis: backwards of AD900 we don't really know what happened or when. Between AD900 and AD1600 there is more certainty, but there is still a lot of fuzzy ground, and things don't get reliable until we get past the 1600's where the printing press made it very difficult for the perpetrators of this timeline manipulation to change anything that had been committed to print. The Dark Ages did not happen. Books were burned for a reason. One organization has doubled the actual length of its existence by expanding the real chronology. Read why.

I had always wondered why Christ died about AD33 and yet men waited until the 11th century to form the Knights Templar, the Cathars, etc and go after the Holy Land by force. Why the 1000 year gap? Turns out there wasn't more than a 10-12 year gap and he proves it using astronomy. This also implies that the planet is not as old as we have been told, and current Christian and other creationist scientists are already championing that idea without being aware of Fomenko's book. The two groups, creationist scientists and the Russian mathematical analysts corroborate each other. Fascinating.

Of course, all this flies in the face of what we have been told traditionally is the 'proper' chronology of western civilization, and most readers will experience 'cognitive dissonance' in reading this book. It means that our history going backwards from AD1600 becomes progressively more incorrect and unreliable until it cannot be trusted at all... in the space of 700-800 years.

Naturally, the curious, open-minded reader will want to know WHO did this, WHY, and did any of the events we think of as really ancient ever happen?
Dr. Fomenko is a respected scientist/mathematician at Moscow State University who has already answered these questions to the satisfaction of his initially skeptical colleagues. Most of them are now believers, a few still refuse to believe (the usual diehards), and of course the western press has ignored Fomenko's work -- for obvious reasons when you read the book. The ones who perpetrated this chronology ruse have a lot to answer for. They are still with us. That's why this book is a well-kept secret.

I gave the book a 4-star rating because I was unable to check out some of his claims; those I checked were as he said. But if even 1/3 of his claims are true, this punches a big hole in what we think is our history, the meaning of western civilization, our educational process (for repeating the ruse as gospel), and the trustworthiness of the organization that perpetrated this ruse, well-intentioned or not.

This book relates to current research into a Young Earth paradigm, to John Keel's discoveries about our planet, and Fr Malachi Martin's insights (in his now out-of-print books). We are indeed sheep who are manipulated and kept ignorant -- for a reason. While knowing what these men have to say may be the "booby prize" (as in: 'what can you do with this knowledge?'), it will provide interesting reading. Didn't someone say: "...and the Truth will set you free."?? For you to judge if this book contains the truth.

Painting on Rocks for Kids (Creative Kids)

Average customer rating:

Painting on rocks for kids
Great crafts for all ages
One of the best books we've ever bought!
Kids paint on Rocks
Excellent book for beginning or low-skill painters!

Painting on Rocks for Kids (Creative Kids)
Lin Wellford
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Crafts & Hobbies | Arts & Music | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1581802552

Book Description

Lin Wellford, the original "rock artist" shows kids how to create amazing creatures, incredible toys and wild gifts for their friends and family. All it takes is some paint, a few rocks and a little imagination! Easy-to-follow pictures and instructions show kids how to turn stones into everything from racecars and lizards to teddy bears and flowers!

They'll learn how to draw each design on a rock with a pencil, then paint the details in whatever colors they choose. Kids can decorate their rooms, make doorstops or bookends, or just paint something for fun. They can make each project look just like the real thing or wild and wacky. The choice is theirs-and so is the fun!

Customer Reviews:

Painting on rocks for kids.......2007-06-20

Fun & cute. Have inght eyes to bring the rock to life. Step-by-step detail instruction & ill. Fine publication.

Great crafts for all ages.......2007-05-14

I bought this book to take camping with a Brownie Troop of Girl scouts. They had a lot of fun with it! I really liked the ideas and it has easy to follow instructions. Skill level is varied in this book so everyone should be able to find something they'd like to paint. I particularly liked the lizard rocks.

One of the best books we've ever bought!.......2007-01-09

We bought this book for our four year old Granddaughter for Christmas. She absolutley LOVES this book. She loves rocks and loves to paint. It is an excellent family activity also. We got the rocks at our local garden center although, we live in the country and have gathered rocks from the creek too which added to the fun. We've painted on both and they are wonderful. The first time she came over after Christmas is when we used the book. We spent hours painting and she felt really good after seeing what she had created. We even got her Uncles (ages 18 and 19) involved and we all had great fun with this. I would recommend this book for all ages!

Kids paint on Rocks.......2006-03-22

It was in great condition and arrived in a timely manner.

Excellent book for beginning or low-skill painters!.......2004-05-22

This is a great book for people who aren't really very good at painting. Of course the ideas, patterns and methods would work for anyone, but it also shows you step-by-step which color to use, what to draw on the rock, etc. The little rock cars and rock town are darling and the lizards are cute and very realistic. This would be a fun summer project to do with your kids!

Average customer rating:

You can do it!
This book is a treasure
Painting Flowers on Rocks by Lin Welford
Being creative
Painting Flowers on Rocks

Painting Flowers on Rocks
Lin Wellford
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Instructional & How-To | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Painting | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Painting | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0891349456

Customer Reviews:

You can do it!.......2006-08-28

Follow the simple step by step directions for a beautiful "rock garden."

This book is a treasure.......2006-08-20

Whether you are simply curious about rock painting, or have a desire to paint flowers on rocks, this book is for you. It is well written by a world class rock artist and teacher and in addition to offering know-how, it is an encouraging book that shows the way to get involved in this fascinating and not too expensive art form.

Painting Flowers on Rocks by Lin Welford.......2006-03-16

This book was as I expected it to be.. the demonstrations were clear and instructons easy.. I ordered it because of an episode on the Carol Duvall show in which the author painted a beautiful bouquet on a simple smooth rock ..I have ordered other books of the same nature from Amazon before and have been equally satisfied.

Being creative.......2006-02-26

It was such a pleasure to receive Lin's book about painting flowers on rocks. I have several of her other books which has brought us lots of hours of fun and fantasy. We appreciate her talents and her sharing her ideas with others like us. Her flower painted rocks are perfect for places like cemeteries that don't allow fresh flowers. It helps bring beauty to our loved ones graves without the work and worry of live plantings. The rocks require "no watering!" Thanks Lin for all your creative ideas.

Painting Flowers on Rocks.......2005-09-04

Great seller! Excellent product, fast shipment. Will do business with seller any time.

Painting Houses, Cottages and Towns on Rocks

Average customer rating:

Painting Houses, cottages and towns on rocks
Complete
Get ready to get motivated
Fun
One of the most interesting books I've seen !

Painting Houses, Cottages and Towns on Rocks
Lin Wellford
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Instructional & How-To | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

Watercolor Painting | Instructional & How-To | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Painting | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Painting | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0891347208

Customer Reviews:

Painting Houses, cottages and towns on rocks.......2007-06-20

Lots of great ideas of rock to houses. Cute & warm samples.

Complete.......2007-01-10

I'm very satisfied with the books i've bought.
They are very instructive and complete.
They teach the reader to paint rocks step by step, allowing consisting apprenticeship.

Get ready to get motivated.......2006-08-20

This is a well written and very specific guide to painting houses on rocks. It is beautifully illustrated and offers very specific, understandable and do-able instructions. It is not possible to read this book without feeling encouraged and motivated to get going.

Fun .......2006-02-26

I love the book. It is filled with ideas that will keep me busy for a long time. We enjoy our yard and garden so making these little houses, cottages, and towns will be fun to add to our stepables garden. So thanks Lin for being so creative and for sharing your ideas with others like me.

One of the most interesting books I've seen !.......2005-09-15

Few months ago I bought one examplar of this book for myself. But, after showing it to few friends of mine, I had to order 5 more - because they all wanted this book. Doesn't that say something ?

Average customer rating:

The Chalk Box Kid
The Chalk Box Kid The Greatest Book Ever
The Wonderful Book!
The Chalk Box Kid
A Real Gem

Chalk Box Kid (Stepping Stone, paper)
Clyde Robert Bulla
Manufacturer: Random House Books for Young Readers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Architecture | Professional & Technical | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 4-8 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

General | Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | Subjects | Books

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Ages 9-12 | Children's Books | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
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ASIN: 0394891023
Release Date: 1987-09-12

Book Description

Random House is proud to present the tenth anniversary edition of a book Publishers Weekly called "a gem of a book...a story that goes straight to the heart." When nine-year-old Gregory experiences several upsets in his life, he responds by creating a fantastic chalk garden on the charred walls of a burned-out factory behind his house. As his garden grows and flourishes, Gregory finds a voice through his art and, for the first time, is able to find his own place in the world. The Chalk Box Kid is sure to delight a new generation of children and their parents.

Customer Reviews:

The Chalk Box Kid.......2006-10-26

The Chalk box kid teaches you a lesson about how to deal with life when
you move. It shows you that you can make a place your own. It was a wonderful book.Gregory creats a chalk garden. As 3rd graders we give it 5
stars!

The Chalk Box Kid The Greatest Book Ever .......2006-01-24

This is my favorite book ever because it was about chalk and I like to write with chalk.

The Wonderful Book!.......2006-01-24

I like this book a lot because I like to write with chalk.I would also like to have a garden.

The Chalk Box Kid.......2006-01-19

When you read this book you will be amazed! This book is amazing
to me and probably to you to.I mean I love this book it's amazing I hope you will like this book very,very much if you want to find out more information you'll have to read it!!!!!

A Real Gem.......2005-01-27

Nine-year-old Gregory's going through a tough time: his dad lost his job recently, he just moved to a new neighborhood, he switched schools, he didn't get to celebrate his birthday this year, and the one bright spot of everything -- the bedroom his parents added on to the house just for him (Gregory's never had his own room before) -- he has to share with his 20-year-old slacker Uncle Max, who just moved in. To make things worse, the kids at school aren't exactly standing in line to be his friends and his family doesn't have a lot of time for him now.

Things start to look up when Gregory discovers an abandoned chalk factory next door. Under the rubble are boxes and boxes of leftover chalk and Gregory starts drawing on the walls. What he draws and what happens when others take notice is the story.

Discussion:
This is one of the best beginning chapter books I've read in a long time. There are no 50 cent words and the sentences are short but the paragraphs pull you along so you'd never notice it. What makes this book so unique are the topics it skids around.

Gregory is a very frustrated little boy. His parents both work and can't afford to give him the art supplies, clothes, garden space, etc that his friends have access to. His uncle is more of a spoiled new brother than an adult and neither he nor Gregory's parents take much interest in Gregory's concerns and activities. His new teacher is nice but he's having trouble fitting in at school. There is no place in his house that is private. Nothing horrible ever happens but little things build up and although he doesn't know how to say it, Gregory's pent-up frustrations need an outlet. (He's not the only child in this book with this problem: a classmate, Ivy, also has difficulty putting words what's bothering her.)

In a typical beginner reader book an adult would take notice and step in and find a way to make Gregory feel special. Instead the author has Gregory discover an unlimited supply of chalk and 3 walls of the chalk factory to draw on. Now that Gregory has a place that he can make his own, everything else is more bearable. When he finds that he's the only one in his class without a yard to grow a garden in, he simply draws one on the walls outside.

It doesn't take long before others catch on to what he's doing, but by then Gregory has a little more control over his feelings (he no longer feels like kicking things). Again, Bulla is realistic: Nothing fantastic happens but things work out anyway and the ending is more satisfying because of it.

Average customer rating:

wonderful book
ANYONE UP FOR A ROCK PARTY!??
Excellent student tool
painting more animals on rocks
A Fido that you don't feed

Painting Pets on Rocks
Lin Wellford
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Instructional & How-To | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Painting | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Puzzles & Games | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Painting | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 1581800320

Customer Reviews:

wonderful book.......2001-11-14

It has beautiful painted rocks in it and shows just how easy it is to paint rocks. I am not a real good painter but, I do plan to give it a try. Instructions and ideas in this book are great even for a beginner like me.

ANYONE UP FOR A ROCK PARTY!??.......2001-11-13

I couldn't help it, it sounded so fascinating when I was invited to a "rock party". A friend held it, and all of us got together at her place. She had a bunch of field rock, (though I've heard smooth river rock is good also) and she had cleaned them all up and they sat, waiting on her front step. We took turns choosing the rock that "spoke to us" and brought it into the house for some good old fashioned gossip and a fun project with friends. Oh, yes, we had doubts! Halfway through those rocks were UGLY, and we took a few chip and salsa breaks so we could look at them from a distance (they looked better that way- Laugh!). But- amazingly enough- when we finished the last step, perfectly outlined in the book- our rocks looked GREAT!! I actually DISPLAY mine in my little rock garden, and get so many comments on their "uniqueness". What a fun idea! And takes almost no $ to get started, if you're like me, you already have the simple materials lying around from previous projects!! Great book, simple instructions, great tips and pointers- even for the novice.

Excellent student tool.......2001-09-25

Painting Pets on Rocks is a fabulous step by step instructional book. My students (1st through 7th grade) created fabulous rock paintings following these easy-to-follow instructions.

painting more animals on rocks.......2001-08-31

Super, these books by Ms. Wellford are illustrated so beautifully that ANYONE could paint animals and such on rocks. Her directions are not only the written word, but also demonstrated by showing the drawing from the stones to use, preparing the stones, sketching from "square one" on thru the completed reproduction. These books are a MUST for any rock painter enthusiast.

A Fido that you don't feed.......2001-08-06

A new meaning to the words "Pet Rock":

Lin Wellford has out-done herself again! I just can't get enough of her books! For those of you who have not read any of Lin Wellford's books, let me tell you, IT'S TIME TO START! In "Painting Pets on Rocks" you learn how to paint your dog, cat, fish, and even your pet bird! The book doesn't just show you one type of dog, or only one cat. Lin gives you instructions on how to create many different rock pets. From Dalmations to bulldogs, tabby cat to siamese...this book has it all.

Even if you have never painted before, you can do these projects. The book has full color, nearly step by step photos with the step by step instructions. As with all Lin Wellford books, her instructions are written for the beginner and it is amazing how well your pet rocks come out.

Average customer rating:

Complete

Painting Zoo Animals on Rocks - Lin Wellford

Painting Zoo Animals on Rocks
Lin Wellford
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Instructional & How-To | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
General | Painting | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
Painting | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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Painting More Animals on Rocks

Painting Pets on Rocks

The Art of Painting Animals on Rocks

Painting Houses, Cottages and Towns on Rocks

Rock Painting Fun for Everyone!

ASIN: 1581804652

Book Description

Lin Wellford's fans have been asking for more animal rock painting projects; with Painting Zoo Animals on Rocks, their wishes have come true! Eleven projects feature exotic zoo animals, such as a lion, an elephant, a polar bear, a giraffe, a chimp and a toucan. Also included are favorite petting zoo critters, including a pig, a lamb and a baby chick.

Readers will receive the same detailed and reliable step-by-step instruction they have come to expect from Lin, including tips on selecting the best rocks, laying out patterns, and achieving realistic details, all of which have made Wellford's other rock painting books a huge success. What's more, in this latest installment, Lin includes a brand-new technique for sculpting necks using gravel, glue and woodfiller!

Using these terrific projects and gallery photos as their inspiration, readers will soon create their very own rock menagerie.

Customer Reviews:

Complete.......2007-01-10

I'm very satisfied with the books i've bought.
They are very instructive and complete.
They teach the reader to paint rocks step by step, allowing consisting apprenticeship.

Painting Zoo Animals on Rocks - Lin Wellford.......2005-09-14

I love the book! I have many of her books. The new book has a beautiful cover and instructions are wonderful to follow, as usual for this artist. Great buy too!
Karen Aschenbrener

Average customer rating:

New, Exciting Hobby
Looking for Fun??
Looking for Fun??
Great book! Easy for everyone!
Another Treasure!

Painting More Animals on Rocks
Lin Wellford
Manufacturer: North Light Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Instructional & How-To | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Painting | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

General | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books

Painting | Crafts & Hobbies | Home & Garden | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 089134800X

Customer Reviews:

New, Exciting Hobby.......2005-09-15

I stumbled upon this hobby by accident. I was an art minor in college and have done a lot of oil paintings. When a friend told me about painting animals on rocks, I had no idea what she was talking about. I have painted my first animal (a leopard) and it turned out great. I gave it to my cousin and she raved about it. The author is wonderful in her ability to inspire and direct "the student." My only disagreement is with having to draw the outline on the rock starting out. I think that may add a certain difficulty. I just go ahead and paint, making slight adjustments when needed. I find doing it that way to be much easier. I am really loving my new found hobby and hope to possibly sell some animals on rocks in a craft fair held annually here where I live. I am 67 and retired.

Looking for Fun??.......2002-05-02

This book has so many ideas for a craft person. The instructions are very easy and the rocks are fun to make. My 5 year old grandson found it easy too. He made a Lady Bug. This book is worth having if you are loooking for a project that doesn't cost much money, and is really fun to do. You can take the whole family out on a hike looking for rocks, this was a nice outing too. Have fun and enjoy.

Looking for Fun??.......2002-05-02

Great book! Easy for everyone!.......2002-01-12

I had been interested in Lin Wellford's books for a long time, but never really painted an animal rock. I bought this book, ready to try it. First I did a frog, which was very simple.
The furry animals use a script liner, and that is not my favorite paint brush, so I was a little nervous that I couldn't achieve the fur strokes.
I went ahead and tried a squirrel, and I was so surprised at how easy the fur turned out to be. I've painted a few more animals since then, and they are very easy to do. Very watery paint and a #1 script liner (the shorter one) makes it very easy.
If you are looking to start painting rocks, don't hesitate...this is the perfect book! I would recommend it to everyone who is interest in painting!

Another Treasure!.......2001-04-16

Another amazing book! Lin Wellford makes painting animals so easy. Everyone can make these adorable rock creatures. This book, Painting More Animals on Rocks, is the second 'animal on rocks' book. I really hope she comes out with more because these books are great!

Painting More animals on Rocks shows you how to make very cute mice, bears, wolves, wild cats, penguins, cows, and so much more. Your rock creatures nearly look real when you are finished painting them. I made some frogs for my flower garden, a few mice, and a penguin so far.

Customer Reviews:

The rocks come alive.......2006-12-12

Closure of a number of palaeolithic cave art sites has produced a wave of books depicting the art by photography. These efforts are of varying quality, but this one on Altamira is one of the more noteworthy examples. In addition to the photographs, Saura Ramos has enlisted several cave art scholars to add informative essays on history of the discovery, descriptions of the cave and the paintings and the problems of conservation and protection. Particularly useful is an article on the methods used to produce the cave graphics. The reader is nearly alongside the artist as the charcoal or ochre stick applied to render the image. It's an effective means of "personalising" the renderings.

Spanish scholars on various topics author all the essays comprising the body of the text. From a beginning of the history of the discovery of the Altamira graphics, the cave's local environment is examined. A diagram of the cave is shown, although lacking any measurement scale. The art and artists in the time of the paintings' creation is given with an explanation of the timescale involved. The images and artefacts were approximately dated in the era preceding radiometric dating methods employed today. Forms and styles of the work are set in the general scope of "Ages" then in use by scholars. The painters spread their work throughout the cave system where space and useful rock forms were available. A very useful addition, often overlooked in accounts of other cave or rock art, is the size of the image. This is handy to have and useful to keep in mind as you view the image reproductions. There is also a discussion of paintings versus engravings that appear at Altamira.

Of major importance, and almost unique in cave art books, is the discussion of the artistic concepts and painting styles used to make the images. Some very precise analytical techniques have been applied to these paintings during the last generation. The layers of strokes, the application of colours and the forms of natural rock formations that underlie many of the images have been closely scrutinised. The author of this essay, Matilde Muzquiz Perez-Seoane has compiled a detailed set of examples of the rendering process. Given the conditions that prevailed in the time of the painters, their powers of observation and application were exceptional. It's not for nothing that Picasso declared "We've learned nothing in thousands of years".

It is the photographs, of course, that render this book valuable and captivating. Saura A Ramon's work is exquisite in portraying how the paintings would be seen were you to visit the site. His professional use of light and shadow, although unable to duplicate the wavering illumination provided by oil lamps and torches, still depicts the scenes as closely as the artists might have seen them. Bulging rock transformed into bison or other animals nearly jump out at the reader's view. Cracks formed backbones, heads and other anatomy, giving the images a sense of life. Only a film using equally effective techniques could offer improvement over the images in this book. It's a superb effort in giving us a sense of what the artists and the people originally viewing these paintings might have felt. [stephen a. haines - Ottawa, Canada]

Our mysterious ancestors.......2004-04-04

This beautiful book explores the cave of Altamira in Spain, called "The Sistine Chapel of Quaternary Art" for the splendour of its drawings, engravings and paintings. The cave was first occupied 18 450 years ago and its early history ended about 13 000 years ago when the entrance vault collapsed. It was discovered again in 1879.

The text comprises an introduction by Antonio Beltrán and various articles: The Cave And Surroundings by José Lasheras Corruchaga; Altamira: Art, Artists And Times by Federico de Quirós; Techniques Individual Artists And Artistic Concepts by Matilde Pérez-Seoane; Photographing Altamira by Pedro Ramos; Conservation Problems by Corruchaga and a Conclusion: The Future by Beltrán.

This great monument to prehistoric art is documented by impressive color and black and white photographs of the area, the artworks and the tools found in the caves, including a portrait of the discoverer Sautuola. There are maps of the cave, a bibliography, notes and an index.

This magnificent book offers an exhaustive study of the wonderful and mysterious cave complex of Altamira and also deals with a number of theories about cave art around the world that casts some light on our ancient ancestors.

Beautiful photographs, interesting essays about an old cave........2002-08-18

THE CAVE OF ALTAMIRA, edited by Antonio Beltran, tells the story of the famous paintings found in a cave in Spain in 1879. The book indicates the Altamira paintings date from the Solutrean period of the Paleolithic. Recent radiocarbon dating shows art in the Polychrome Chamber to be between 18,000 and 19,000 years old, placing it around 16,500 B.C. Pedro Saura Ramos, the photographer has a distinguished reputation. A number of prominent art historians have contributed interesting essays.

From the high elevation of the Altamira cave, one can see the `Picos de Europa' - a range of mountain peaks which must have appeared awesome to Paleolithic humans. Judging by the remains of creatures found in pits in the cave chambers as well as portraits of animals on cave walls, the countryside around Altamira must have been a virtual Eden. Evidence shows that great park-like settings near the cave held deer, roebuck, and wild boar, while open areas favored large bovines like horses and bison, rocky areas provided shelter for goats and chamois, and the nearby sea and fresh water lakes and streams were filled with shellfish and other marine life. Charcoal used in the wall paintings and found around the hearths reveal a coastal ecology where willow, juniper, chestnut and pine grew. The discarded bones indicate the cave was probably used as a gathering place for a relatively large number of people.

Pedro Sauro Ramos says it is impossible to convey the impression one receives standing on the cave floor looking up at the wall and it's illustrations. His photos are unusual in that he has held the camera in non-conventional ways and shot angles not normally seen in print. He provides wide-angled, then close-up shots of many of the animals so the reader can see detail revealed at close range. He notes that artists often took advantage surface features when creating an animal. Natural bosses were used to round out forms. A ledge provided the line of a deer jaw. Cracks and crevices highlighted horns and hinds.

As is the case with Lascaux, many of the paintings have been damaged by exposure to human bacteria and some of the photographs reveal black fungus. In addition, ceilings and walls have been reinforced to support badly damaged sections of the cave. In some cases the human supports interfere with the lighting or alter the appearance. For example, natural lighting from the cave entrance that once illuminated the numerous bovines of the famous "Great Panel" and that would have been seen on entering the chamber have been blocked by a concrete wall. For his photographs, Saura Ramos provided natural lighting to show how the painting would have appeared to Paleolithic humans.

The text includes reasonably good essays by a number of noted experts. My favorite is entitled, "Techniques, Individual Artists, and Artistic Concepts in the Painting of Altamira", by Matilda Muzquiz Perez-Seoane. In this essay, Perez-Seoane explains how bone marrow was used to illuminate the areas of the wall the artist painted in the dark interior recesses. Apparently, animal knee caps were filled with marrow which was lighted and provided a flame which illuminated without filling the chamber with smoke and choking the artist and/or blackening the ceiling or walls.

Stunning Photos and Essays of Great Prehistoric Cave Art.......2000-07-26

Prior to Darwin, there was relatively little interest in prehistoric art. Then the theory of evolution and the discovery of many wonderful caves jammed with art, almost like museums, conspired to change all of that. Altamira's art dates back around 15,500 years (due to radioactive dating techniques), but it originally drew little attention because it was too wonderful to be real. The psychology of disbelief stall led all but a few scholars to dismiss this gem. It took almost 20 years for its authenticity to be established, and subsequent evidence has only strengthened its claims. Many people feel that Altamira is the most wonderful collection of prehistoric art in existence. The other famous cave is Lescaux in France. In between these caves geographically, many other caves with drawings have been found.

After being initially ignored after its discovery in 1879, it soon experienced a crush of visitors (eventually approaching 200,000 in a single year). But cave art isn't going to last with that much extra heat and humidity, so the caves have now been closed except to the occasional scholar. The good news is that this cave (located near the seacoast in Spain) is being reproduced so that one can visit and get a sense of the place without harming the art.

Altamira is an extensive series of caves (about 270 yards long) with many different sections. The entrances and exits have mysterious masks. In one section with a low-hung ceiling are many wonderful large paintings of bison (many of these you will recognize). Another area features engravings in the soft stone that are remarkable in their detail and delicacy. Yet other areas have different features. The photographs are magnificent and capture both the beauty of the individual images as well as giving a sense of the part of the cave they are in.

The essays in the book are remarkably complete. They describe the history of the cave, the evolution of theories about what the art means, descriptions of how the art was probably created, and the difficulties of preserving and recording the cave's contents. The only drawback was that the discussions of the theories were somewhat redundant, and would have benefited from a stronger editorial hand or more preplanning.

Anyone who loves art, is interested in prehistoric life, or is fascinated by cave art would love this book. Anyone who loves a good mystery will, too.

Open your mind to the possibilities that exist, and use this book as an excellent example of how often we underestimate the potential of what is in front of us.

Excellent Photos, Excellent Text.......2000-05-20

I ordered the book as a present for my wife, an anthropologist and artist. But, when it arrived, I couldn't help but sit down and read it immediately. Beautifully done photos of the cave images, together with a series of excellent essays on the history, layout, content, and "meaning" of the cave. A lovely production, an excellent book.

Rock Painting: Cute Critters from Simple Stones

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Rock Painting: Cute Critters from Simple Stones
Patty Donathan , and Ernestina Gallina
Manufacturer: Sterling
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1402726120

Book Description

From pink pigs to curled-up kittens, these painted rock animals are irresistible! They’re also inexpensive to make, fun to display and to give, and extremely doable, thanks to the very detailed instructions provided by two experts in the art. They explain how to select a rock; prepare it for painting; choose the right paints and brushes for various projects; and master techniques such as painting fur, adding highlights and shadows, washing and tinting, dry brushing, and blending colors. And crafters will adore the wide range of items, all beautifully and thoroughly illustrated: There are pets like a Persian cat, Labrador retriever, and a pug; farmyard animals, including a hen and chicks; and wild creatures like an owl and a snake.

A Selection of The Crafter’s Choice Book Club.

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