Anatomy for the Artist

Amazon.com

Anatomy for the Artist is like having your own life-drawing studio in the privacy of your home. Carefully constructed photographs of the human form allow you to see the structure and function of the skeleton and main muscle groups. Six imaginative drawing lessons, each supported with photography, show how to portray the bones, head, rib cage, pelvis, hands, and feet in perspective, from different angles, both in still poses and in movement.

Book Description

In Anatomy for the Artist, acclaimed artist and teacher Sarah Simblet unveils the extraordinary construction of the human body, and celebrates its continual prominence in Western Art.

The transparent body. Using superb, specially commissioned photographs of male and female models, together with historical and contemporary works of art, and her own illustrations, Sarah shows us how to see inside the human frame, to map its muscle groups, skeletal strength, balance, poise, and grace. Selected drawing superimposed over photographs reveal fascinating relationships between external appearance and internal structure.

Drawing from life. Six drawing classes guide the reader to see the human body afresh, offering techniques and attitudes that imaginatively show how to view and draw the skeleton, head, ribcage, pelvis, hands, and feet.

Dissecting the Masters. By investigating ten Masterworks, the author demonstrates different artist's ideas and knowledge across time, ranging from Holbein's Christ Entombed, to Edward Hopper's Hotel Room. Each Masterclass presents a photographed model set in the same pose, so that anatomical comparisons can be made. Understanding anatomy is often the key to an artist's understanding and interpretation of the body. This imaginative modern reference book will enhance the drawing and painting techniques of artists at every level.

Customer Reviews:

An Excellent Reference for the Novice or Intermediate Artist.......2007-09-30

"Anatomy for the Artist" is an impressive reference guide for those artists looking for a helpful leap into the world of anatomy. This book is full of high-quality, tasteful nude photographs (most in black and white, some in color) of a variety of models that will provide great insight into how best to acurately portray the human body as a whole, as well as parts of the body in particular.

"Anatomy for the Artist" is, helpfully, divided into segments - upper torseo, lower torso, upper arms, lower arms, thighs, legs, etc. - and focuses on each part in particular in an unhurried, elegant manner. Many sections of photographs are accompanied by translucent overlays that illustrate the muscular/skeletal structure beneath the skin of the models (there are pencil sketches, largely). Additionally, classic paintings of note are presented next to models taking the pose of the subjects in the painting and deconstructing how the artist extrapolated their models' positions into their finished pieces; this I found especially enlightening. It appears that no expense was spared in the production of this book. I found its section of the upper torso, the forearm, and the legs most helpful to me, and I don't doubt that many artists will find much of this book illuminating and revealing.

However, this book is certainly not perfect. There are some poses and angles that I would have liked to have seen (for instance, more examples of the back of the upper torso; more three-quarters views, as the book seems to focus on side and full views mostly). Also, while the compartmentaliztion of different body parts into different chapters is helpful in most ways, the segregation of the upper and lower portions of the arms and legs will force you to flip back and forth in the book whem trying to make an accurate rendering, which may get tiresome. Overall, however, this is a superb book to learn and sketch from. Recommended.

Amazing art book.......2007-09-14

Finally, an anatomy book for artists that's not too technical in nature. It's more about art, just with the basic structures you need to be aware of to create more lifelike work.

There are tons of photos to work from, since most of us don't have live models around.

The best feature of the book is the overlay pages. There are pages in the book of clear plastic with the underlying structures of the body printed on them. You turn these pages over photos of the body and see how the underlying structures affect the shading, lines, and movement of the figure. It's fantastic.

Good reference book.......2007-05-14

Great photographic reference for any artist, especially for those working in digital medium. It will not substitute for a traditional anatomy book with drawings, but great as a supplement for realistic depiction of human body.

Best book ever!.......2007-04-11

This book is amazing, I love it, so worth the money. if you are into art, then this is a book to have in your collection!

If you draw figures you must have this book!.......2007-03-26

This book is an absolute must for anyone who does figure drawing. The photographs are wonderful and offer a range of figures in various types of poses and lighting. I have a friend in drawing class who purchsed this book so I was able to look at it first hand before I bought it. I came home and ordered it that very day. It is that good.

Teaching Photography: Tools for the Imaging Educator

Average customer rating:

Theoretical more than Practical
Advance levels only!!
A+ for Teaching Photography by Rand and Zakia
What to expect from your teacher
An outstanding guide for teachers

Teaching Photography: Tools for the Imaging Educator
Glenn Rand , and Richard D. Zakia
Manufacturer: Focal Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0240807677

Book Description

Finally, a book for you teachers! Because making great photographs does not always translate into an ability to teach effectively. Teaching Photography will show you how to help your students expand their knowledge and abilities in the techniques, the aesthetics, and the way photography fits into a greater world of knowledge, by providing ideas for inspiring conversations and critiques, as well as insightful pointers regarding the learner's perspective in this new world. Teaching Photography approaches photographic education from a point of view that stresses the how and why of the education and not the technique to be taught.

* New ideas on critiques, evaluations, and planning
*Incorporates student artwork demonstrating direct results from critiquing sessions -- the good and the bad!
* Explores how photography fits into a greater world of knowledge and the importance of inspiring classroom discussions
* Learn from the interviews with professors who have seen it all

Customer Reviews:

Theoretical more than Practical.......2007-03-23

Most of this stuff we learn in school...however, it's an excellent book if you're into the philosophy of teaching. A good book to read on sunday morning, with a cup of coffee. Do not expect a reference book.

Advance levels only!!.......2006-09-04

This book is a great book for those who are teaching either advance photography or at the college level. I am teaching a beginning class and this book was not much help. I was hoping for more lesson plan ideas and there were not as many as I had hoped. This book is probably a good book to read during abreak or over the summer, but not a good book for quick resources.

A+ for Teaching Photography by Rand and Zakia.......2006-04-25

For anyone who teaches imaging (and that includes me), this book is a must read. The book is informative and entertaining. . . filled with quotes that will make you smile while inspiring you - to become a better teacher. For example: "Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life." - Confucius. All I can say is that we are fortunate that Dr. Zakia (whom I have met) chose teaching.

What to expect from your teacher.......2006-04-12

The quotes throughout the book give a sense of diversity of resources and are important to the theme of drawing on information from areas other than photographic. The book speaks sympathetically and clearly to anyone who has been involved on the frontline of education. But it also speaks to those (students) who are on the receiving end of art education. It gives insight into why many of us (self-learners) need to learn (how) to find the right teachers. One of the strongest merits of this book is that it addresses issues that are not limited to the photographic community.

An outstanding guide for teachers.......2006-04-08

The book by Rand and Zakia is a must for teachers or those who are contemplating becoming a teacher. It's primary audience are those who teach in the visual arts, but it has a wealth of information and ideas which any teacher could use. I would also recommend this book for individuals who teach photo seminars or workshops. The art of teaching is quickly dying and this is a refreshing breath that will hopfully inspire teachers and those who want to teach to do more than show up for their job, but take their role as teacher seriously and guide their students in the learning process.

Monotype: Mediums and Methods for Painterly Printmaking

Average customer rating:

Questions answered
One for the reference shelf
Great book for monoprinting
Great demonstation of incredible effects using monotype
Great Resource and Guide

Monotype: Mediums and Methods for Painterly Printmaking
Julia Ayres , and Julia Ayers
Manufacturer: Watson-Guptill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0823031284

Book Description

The art of monotype has experienced a surge of popularity in recent years, and artists working in other mediums will enjoy exploring the creative potential this process offers them. A brief history of monotype is followed by a comprehensive chapter on materials. The step-by-step instructions are accompanied by some of the finest examples of monotype being done today.

Customer Reviews:

Questions answered.......2007-03-25

This book answered many questions that other artists and I were asking regarding monotype. It gives you permission to proceed in any direction, using any materials you choose.

One for the reference shelf.......2005-09-20

I'm so glad I bought this book. It is one of those I take down regularly. The author thoroughly understands monotype in many mediums. A previous reviewer mentioned how well the toxicity issue was dealt with. Lots of good color illustration.

Great book for monoprinting.......2004-12-29

I agree with the previous reviews - if you're creating monoprints, and particularly if you're looking for non-toxic methods, this is a great book. It's full color with many inspiring illustrations, and full of useful, practical information written in a friendly, down-to-earth manner.

Re. recommended paints: I recently had the pleasure of taking a monoprinting class with Julia Ayres and her daughter Gail Ayres (at the Art Methods & Materials Show in Pasadena, CA, Oct 2004). The Ayres now recommend using the new Akua-Kolor waterbased inks by Rostow & Jung (www.waterbasedinks.com) which I assume were not invented at the time this book was originally printed. The advantage is that these inks are non-toxic, clean up easily, and they stay moist for days. You then print to DRY printmaking paper, and the inks dry instantly once they hit the paper. Now you don't have to worry about the inks drying on the plate, or handling fragile, wet paper. (I shoved my Createx paints in a bottom drawer after the workshop!)

(If you get the opportunity, take a class with the Ayres if you're just getting started, as there's nothing quite like seeing the process in action and the book will make even more sense! They also teach using the PinPress Roller for making monoprints by hand; very useful if you don't have access to an expensive printing press.)

Great demonstation of incredible effects using monotype.......2002-04-29

There seems to be very limited information available on the technique of monotype. This book fills that void by demonstrating the incredible variety of effects possible using the monotype method. There are no projects, per se, rather it teaches techniques that help you create your own masterpieces. Many pieces of example artwork are found throughout the book.

A monotype is a one-of-a-kind print made by transferring a painted image to paper. The book starts out with an introduction to materials including plates, mediums, solvents, panting tools and paper as well as hand and press transfer equipment. It also covers studio safety and finding workshop facilities.

Techniques are next including working into a light or dark field and both hand and press transfer.
These include step-by-step instructions accompanied by demonstration photos. Working in specific mediums including watercolor, acrylics, water-soluble writing instruments, monoprint paints (Createx), oil paints, water-based oils and alkyds follows. A section discussing special oil-based printing inks for lithography, etching, printing and serigraphy is also here. There is even a chapter on special techniques including using masks & stencils, embossing and creating collages.

The final chapter gives an overview of monoprints, which combine monotype with other print making processes, and mixed-media monotypes. This includes intaglio, drypoint and engraving, as well as linocut and collagraphic monoprints.

There is a nice list of suppliers as well as interesting biographical notes on the artists featured in the back. This is a great book that displays the great diversity in mediums and results available with monotype.

Great Resource and Guide.......2000-02-07

This book is a valuable resource of methods used in making monotypes. Ms. Ayres reviews every aspect of making a monotype from the tools, the ink or paint, and the process of transferring the image. All the printmaking terms used when describing this art are expertly explained and illustrated. It is clearly not a medium restricted to artists familiar with printmaking. The work of many artists are presented along with the ingenuity they have used to transfer their work. A very valuable resource book both for the artist and those wishing to learn more about this art form.

Average customer rating:

Good for Antamoy References
Good book
Practice practice practice
Good book, but lacks in the following.
Excellent content

Anatomy Lessons from the Great Masters
Robert Hale , Terence Coyle , and Robert Beverly Hale
Manufacturer: Watson-Guptill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0823002810
Release Date: 2000-10-01

Amazon.com

Anatomy Lessons from the Great Masters provides an anatomical counterpart to Robert Beverly Hale's classic reference book, Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters. Terence Coyle, who for several years assisted Hale at the Art Students League of New York, kept detailed notes of Hale's lectures and teaching methods. He combined these notes with 100 drawings to illustrate how the great masters portrayed specific parts of the human physique. As Hale points out, master artists such as Rembrandt, Leonardo, and Raphael "absorbed the technical details of anatomy so well that these details could be set down instinctively.... If an artist has to occupy his mind with the task of clumsily grouping the elemental facts of anatomy as he draws, there can be little room left for really important matters--such as the spirit of the drawing and the artist's expressive intent." Coyle provides several examples within the study of each anatomical area to illustrate the variety of styles and methods employed by the masters. The book treats, in order, the rib cage, the pelvis and thigh, the knee and lower leg, the foot, the shoulder girdle, the arm, the hand, and the neck and head. A complete series of anatomical reference plates by Dr. Paul Richer is included. By applying the timeless anatomical principles the great masters have handed down to us, any artist can begin to acquire the means by which to express the "really important matters." --Mary Ribesky

Book Description

This classic book, whose foremost author was one of the great artistic anatomy teachers of the twentieth century, is an invaluable instructor and reference guide for any professional, amateur, or student artist who depicts the human form. Revealing the drawing principles behind one hundred inspiring masterpieces, the book presents work by Leonardo, Michelangelo, Rubens, Raphael, Titian, Rembrandt, and other greats. These superb portrayers of figures knew that the secret of drawing them was seeing how underlying bone and muscle structures mold the body's surface forms. Readers are shown how to learn from these great examples as the authors guide them through all the steps they would take in a life class or studio working with live models.

Customer Reviews:

Good for Antamoy References.......2007-05-13

I will just say that this is very helpful for reference to specific part of the human anatomy. Especially the skeletal and muscular diagrams at the back of the book.

Good book.......2006-11-23

for us amateaur artists who want inspiration to create great works of art. This book shows the details of the human body and how great artists drew from live and dead bodies as they create the greatest masterpieces in art history.

Practice practice practice.......2006-01-20

I took an art class at the junior college and the instructor suggested copying the masters to improve drawing skills. I bought this book and copied every picture. Not only did it familiarize me with many artists I had not heard of but, over time my drawing skills improved dramatically. I am now buying collections of drawings of other artists and copying. I highly recommend the book not only as a reference but also to be used to improve skills. I have an engineering background, not art and this helped immensely.

Good book, but lacks in the following........2004-01-07

Pick up this book if you are looking for a great artistic anatomy reference book. If you are looking for more than reference, however, you might want to look elsewhere. While this book is definitely good, it doesn't give the artist direction in how to draw or depict the illustrations. The text is pretty much straight-forward, usually only noting the parts of the bodies in the images. Second, this book lacks the poetic and great writing of Robert Beverly Hale.

Anatomy Lessons from the Great Masters is more of an extra reference book or a supplement to Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters. In that book, Hale really teaches to the reader whats needed to depict anatomy, what steps the artist must take, gives tips on how to become a great or accomplished artist, why the artists of the past were so good, what mistakes beginners of figure drawing usually make, and sooooo much more. It's pretty much an incredible book to have even if you're not into figure drawing.

I think Anatomy Lessons would probably be more highly regarded in my eyes had Drawing Lessons been nonexistent. Anatomy Lessons is great for further reference, if thats what you're looking for though. I probably wouldn't recommend anyone to buy this book unless you already own or have thoroughly read and studied Drawing Lessons by the Great Masters.

Excellent content.......2002-09-29

An excellent book on artistic anatomy. Reading this one book has taught me more than some figure drawing classes. A systematic deconstruction of how the masters of artistic anatomy have integrated their knowledge into some of the greatest drawings of all time. The book goes through the drawings of famous artists, categorized by the region of the body on which the drawings are focused, and attempts to explain how extensive knowledge of anatomy has been effectively applied. It touches on how these artists could create drawings which are more powerful than merely a photographic rendering of the model through their use of anatomy.

Unfortunately, the book is very cheaply bound. Entire leaves have detached themselves from the spine, though I have treated the book very well. My copy has turned into a stack of paper and scotch tape, wrapped loosely in its former cover. Despite that fact, I still consider it worth the purchase.

I have both this book and "Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters." Both are excellent books, but if you must only buy one, get this one. It is the better of the two.

Average customer rating:

If wishes were fishes...

The Watercolor Book: Materials and Techniques for Today's Artists

Helpful

Great for Beginning Watercolor and Art 101

Beginners must take a look at this book

The Watercolor Book: Materials and Techniques for Today's Artists
David Dewey
Manufacturer: Watson-Guptill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0823056392

Book Description

The most thorough guide to watercolor materials and techniques ever assembled in a single volume, this is the book for anyone working with watercolors, from beginners to experienced artists looking to develop more professional skills. Starting with a comprehensive, up-to-date review of the tools and techniques required to master the art of watercolor, the book then presents detailed lessons in basic drawing skills. Design concepts are explored: line and shape, light and dark, perspective, and composition. All the major watercolor painting techniques are shown: methods for laying washes, preserving white areas, glazing, establishing form, creating textural effects, lifting color, masking, and using resists. With color the driving force behind the author's whole approach to painting and his distinctive "organic" handling of the medium, color theories and strategies are clearly explained and applied to a wide range of subjects-still life, figures, landscapes, and architecture-some of which pair watercolors with other mediums such as gouache, pastel, and collage. An ongoing reference source, this is a book that watercolorists will turn to again and again for guidance.

Customer Reviews:

If wishes were fishes..........2007-09-27

I wish I would have bought this book before I bought the supplies I did. I know that I would have saved a lot of guesswork and helped form my style faster and more satisfactorily. I am an amateur painter and will always be, so cost effectiveness is an issue. Even though I have brushes and stuff that I will not use (probably) I have the feeling with this book that I have an instructor at hand. Thanks guys!

The Watercolor Book: Materials and Techniques for Today's Artists.......2007-07-13

After reading several books about watercolor, I found this book to be the best watercolor book on the market. It is the clarity and thoroughness of the explanations that make this such a valuable resource. I particularly found the section on color theory helpful. This is not a book with a few scattered tips against a background of gorgeous pictures of the artist's work. Rather, it is a master teacher reaching out to all levels of learners as he takes the mystery and confusion out of doing watercolors. If you were only going to buy one book about watercolor--this is the book!!

The Watercolor Book: Materials and Techniques for Today's Artists

Helpful.......2006-09-09

I was recommended this book by a professor to use as my guide in an Independent Study in watercolors. I don't have any other to compare it to, so I'm just writing what I got out of it.

It has very good descriptions about types and brands of paints, papers, and brushes to start out with. There are also some chapters dealing with general composition and color theory.

I was more interested in techniques though, which I thought Dewey covered well. As a newcomer to watercolors, I was introduced to different types of washes, layering, lifting techniques, etc. I really liked the mixed media section which discusses laying watercolor with things like pastels or colored pencil.

It was nice to see a variety of work too. It's not all of Dewey's pictures (though I thought his stuff was pretty dang amazing).

Great for Beginning Watercolor and Art 101.......2005-10-06

I find this book great for beginners as it emphasizes the fundamentals of art elements and techniques for any painting or drawing medium. I found myself understanding more of the concepts I was already familiar with and I also learned much about watercolor's relation to elements of art. I really love the way he explains color and how watercolor is especially perfect for expressing color more than other types of painting. I also love seeing the step-by-step process of how he achieves the end result of each painting and concept he's discussing. It gives detailed instructions but allows you to imagine and create unique paintings, as well. He also hints about the standards of watercolor techniques and basics, such as saying how wet on wet is good for the organic look or adding too much color removes light since watercolor is a subtractive process. Great book, and I read it cover to cover, taking notes along the way. Very basic.

Beginners must take a look at this book.......2004-12-17

I primarily wanted a book full of watercolor pictures by a contemporary artist plus instructions on how some of them are made. I had settled on about 3-5 books of which I intended to buy only one. Took a drive to Barnes and Noble, saw them all and I must say I was impressed by this one. Watercolor aficionados would have mostly heard of this author and artist. Amazing collection of pictures of not only the artist but his own selection of watercolor art from other major works with illustrative details of those art work. The only drawback I notice is that the details are restricted to current context and not much is said about that picture. I would have appreciated that kind of description. This is definitely an error which the author might want to take up in his next edition. Else... this book has great tips and instructions. When a learning artist thinks, "Damn it... how do I get that effect ?". This is a book that can be confidently consulted. Anyone looking for encyclopedic details on what the watercolor is all about and wishes to learn it all and get all the 3 credits from his/her couch from just one book aint going nowhere. This book is a superb reference. I guess the author did what he wanted to do. I did buy this book. B&N is $6 costlier but amazon charges that extra for shipping and it takes time.

Average customer rating:

used or not at all
Several Problems
decent book, not a must-have
The Figure in Motion
figure in motion

The Figure in Motion
Thomas Easley
Manufacturer: Watson-Guptill
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Study & Teaching | Reference | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

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Atlas of Foreshortening: The Human Figure in Deep Perspective (Second Edition)
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Anatomy for the Artist
Virtual Pose 2: The Ultimate Visual Reference Series for Drawing the Human Figure

ASIN: 0823016919

Book Description

Leaping, somersaulting, stretching, dancing figures animate this gallery of marvelous action poses, photographed for artists of all levels to use as reference when portraying human figures in motion.

Expertly composed and lit pictures of male and female models in suspended action show the body from numerous vantage points. Students practice figure drawing by copying the photos, while advanced artists use them as points of departure, altering body positions to suit specific compositional needs.

Customer Reviews:

used or not at all.......2007-05-27

like others said the pictures are grainy. not enough lighting on some...need some ethnic women...

Several Problems.......2007-01-13

I've seen several mentions of grainy photos, and they are grainy, however that is the least of the problems with this book.

First of all many of the figures have been traced out from the background the photo was taken with and pasted onto a plain white background, causing multiple problems, like persepctive and flat or squished body surfaces where the models were originally sitting or lying on something. The "cutting and pasting" is sloppily done, and in many of the photos the tips of toes and fingers have been cut off, very annoying.

Secondly, there are several photographs that take up two pages...but this is a bound book, so the entire center of the body is not visible, and because a portion is in the binding even the countour is not usable. In additon to the two page layouts, there are multiple other figures that fall directly in the center of the book, and are rendered unusable by the binding. The only thing I can figure is that this was originally a spiral bound book, or had pull out pages, like a magazine centerfold. I can't imagine someone would intentionally publish a book with such an awful layout.

Lastly, some of the "motion" figures are cheats. One in particular is clearly a man laying on something propped up on a pillow, but he has been cut and pasted as though it were an upright pose...maybe that explains why so many found the poses "unatural". That wouldn't be a big deal if the book wasn't called "The Figure In Motion", and was maybe titled "Some Figures In Motion, and Some Sedentary But Turned To Appear As Though They Were In Motion."

Couldn't give it no stars, as I will use some of the photos, but my money could most certainly have been better spent.

decent book, not a must-have.......2006-12-31

the photographs aren't of the BEST quality [very grainy], but that didn't really bother me much.

the poses are very un-natural and a little forced.

there is a lack of male models in this, so if you're looking to use this as a reference book for males i suggest you keep browsing elsewhere.

over-all a good buy.

The Figure in Motion.......2006-09-16

This is the best book on anatomy (for sculptors), that I have found so far!

Almost any shift of any muscle can be found in one of the photographs. Some of the pictures are a little too dark, but not so much that you can't get the pose. Since I found this book, I haven't needed any other anatomy books.

Must have book for your reference library.

figure in motion.......2006-08-05

i am pleased with this book. i can't imagine another pose that is not in this book on motion

Average customer rating:

A book I have not yet read.
Essential in a photographer's library

The Education of a Photographer
Charles H. Traub , Steven Heller , and Adam B. Bell
Manufacturer: Allworth Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Professional | Photography | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

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Basic Critical Theory for Photographers
Teaching Photography: Tools for the Imaging Educator
The Photographer's Eye
The Nature of Photographs
Image Makers, Image Takers

ASIN: 158115450X
Release Date: 2006-06-01

Book Description

• What inspires great visionaries?
• Ideal for art students at every level
• Illuminating words about creating great images
• Published in association with New York's School of Visual Arts

What does it mean to become a photographer in the twenty-first century? This thoughtful collection of essays illuminates the spirit of the people who make the indelible images of our times. Aspiring and professional photographers—especially those in arts programs throughout the United States—will appreciate the comprehensive vision of The Education of a Photographer. Classic writings from the twentieth century as well as the thoughts of the most influential talents working today, plus essays from designers, editors, and gallery owners, make this a compelling look at what drives and inspires photographers to create great work.

Customer Reviews:

A book I have not yet read........2007-06-08

Since I purchased this book, however many months ago it was,I have yet to sit down and read through any of its essays. I did scan over a few and found that many of the authors were more interested in flexing their extensive vocabulary to convey their abstracted views of photography and the meaning of the photograph. Not really what I had in mind, though there might be some treasure buried within the pages. I don't think I'll start digging for a while.

It's not an entry level read. I was hoping that the book would contain life experiences and advice from seasoned photographers. It might, though I haven't found it. Before you buy see if you can find it at a bookstore and read some of the chapters. Then consider whether it's worth the money.

Essential in a photographer's library.......2007-04-01

I'm only halfway through and can only ask why such a book only surfaces now. Previous concise compilations of writings on photography concentrated on the mediums origins and historical figures. This one gives us a more contemporary context (ie the 50ies) and goes on from there until today, focusing on the ideas of key figures. Thank you editors!

I Wanna Take Me a Picture: Teaching Photography and Writing to Children

Average customer rating:

Fabulous!
Reading Pictures
Great resource for teachers!

I Wanna Take Me a Picture: Teaching Photography and Writing to Children
Wendy Ewald , and Alexandra Lightfoot
Manufacturer: Beacon Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Photography | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books

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Accessories:

philosophy hope in a jar daily moisturizer
Braun IRT 4020 ThermoScan Ear Thermometer

ASIN: 0807031410

Book Description

"Ewald's project is wonderful because it lets kids speak for themselves; instead of being passive subjects for the lens, they eagerly harness it to the engines of their imaginations." -Andy Grundberg, The New York Times Written for parents and teachers, I Wanna Take Me a Picture is filled with anecdotes about Ewald's work that makes it an accessible and practical guide to getting children involved in photography. Striking photographs of children's work show the benefits of her program. "Young people know joy, sorrow, and loss. By looking at their photographs and talking about making them, they begin to realize their lives have importance. This book is needed!" -Deborah Willis, author of Reflections in Black "A treasure of photos taken by the author and her pupils, plus stirring testimonies from children around the globe who faced tragedy through the lens of a camera." -City Limits Wendy Ewald, who lives with her husband and son in Red Hook, New York, is currently a fellow at the Center for Documentary Studies in Durham, North Carolina. Alexandra Lightfoot received her Ed.D. from Harvard University in 1998.

Customer Reviews:

Fabulous!.......2007-01-04

I absolutely love this book! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. The story is captivating, and I find myself lost in the text.

But I did not purchase this book for leisure reading. I was searching for a book that is an instructional guide to photographic projects for children. This book is not written in the step-by-step format I was looking for. I wanted fully layed out lesson plans, etc. But I was not dissappointed. All of the information I needed on conducting photo projects with kids is in this book. It is just more of a story format. A VERY enjoyable story!

Reading Pictures .......2005-02-19

This book is an outstanding guide for the art teacher eager to teach not only creative photography, but how to connect, understand, and tell a story through a picture. This book teaches expression through exercises with video and poetry, how to read a photograph, to have children from different cultures learn from each other from self portrait exercises in the shoes of different ethnicities.
Although I found this to be extremely interesting, this book isn't what I had expected. I am not a teacher, but I have a child interested in photography and since I am not a photographer myself I was looking for a guide for us both to learn and enjoy together. This book, although enjoyable, shows examples for different assignments for more of a class room setting, not a parent and child learning together . Also this is a book with only a couple pages of actual images and more text. I do feel this book is a blessing for teachers who may be looking for a creative and meaningful experience for their students to express themselves through art.

Great resource for teachers!.......2002-09-04

This book guides you through teaching literacy through photography to children, for which Ms. Ewald is well known. It is a fantastic resource for someone who wants to really teach the heart and soul of photography, as well as visual literacy - a great introduction to photography but even a seasoned photographer can learn something new from this book. Ms. Ewald takes you through her curriculum step by step as she would teach her students and gives you the tools and tips to pass it on. This is not a technical "how to" photo book, there are plenty of those out there, this book is truly a gem. I have used Ms. Ewald's book as the basis for my own workshops with children and I now have adults asking me to take the course! I can't say enough great things about it...

Average customer rating:

Useless
Mixed feelings
Essential for any illustration major
Interesting and thought provoking

The Education of an Illustrator

Manufacturer: Allworth Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Teaching Illustration

ASIN: 158115075X

Book Description

Part manifesto, part instruction manual, this volume's cutting-edge essays, interviews, and course syllabi provide the first-ever blueprint for teaching and practicing the dynamic art and craft of illustration. This revolutionary book fills a practical and an intellectual void for educators, students, and professionals in the field of illustration. Based on interviews with top illustrators and teachers, the book discusses how professionals acquired their illustration know-how and went on to apply it in their careers. Also explored are model illustration education curricula-for both undergraduate and graduate levels-created by leading illustration educators and practitioners. Offering a diverse range of attitudes, philosophies, and visions, this book is the first to address pressing issues confronting education in the illustration arts, including such concerns as authorship, new media, and the marriage of illustration and design.

Customer Reviews:

Useless.......2004-07-04

I am an illustrator and when I got this book I was hoping to learn from it. In my opinion this book is about a few has-beens giving their opinion on their own jobs. Boring!

There is a lot of artsy fartsy talk that only someone who doesnt live in the real world could understand. The kind of talk im talking about is like "The plastic bag flying in the wind is beautiful". pfft.

Mixed feelings.......2002-11-11

Heller and Arisman are two School of Visual Arts (NY) professors who have achieved much in their careers. The conversation/interview between them is the strongest, most educational and most inspiring part of the book.

Brad Holland writes a detailed (but dry) description of the history of stock houses, the direction they are moving in now and how that relates to working artists.
Educational.

A very large portion of the book is a collection of art excercises useful to teachers creating curriculum or artists without the ability to direct themselves in the production of work. I found this area to be mildly interesting, but quite useless to me as an illustrator.

Teachers often tend to create excercises they would do very well themselves, but don't necessarily draw out the uniqueness of the individuals they are teaching. Success as an artist is following your own values of what a successful peice of art or illustration is.

I would have liked to read the perspectives of a more varied cross section of artists in addition to the New York city old guard. There is so much innovation happening in this field. To bemoan the fact that things aren't what they were, shows a lack of awareness of what the younger generation of artists do. Jump fences.

"I design my students to destroy me."
John Maeda of MIT Media Lab

"You are the next Picassos."
Sheridan College Faculty addressing the class in my foundation year 5 years ago.

Essential for any illustration major.......2002-06-23

My first thought when I really got into this book was "finally. An outlook on the career of an illustrator neither negative nor overly optimistic, but realistic and helpful." Being an illustration major I have several misconceptions about the field of illustration that were cleared up pretty quickly. I found the interview with Thomas Woodruff particularly insightful in the case of the illustration as low art issue, and I laughed my head off at Brad Holland's satirical lesson on art terminology. My advice is to buy this book not to decide whether or not illustration is the path for you, but to make sure you have a grasp on what you're getting into.

Interesting and thought provoking.......2001-07-24

The entire book is made up of articles written by various established illustrators. I found the sections on art direction and education extremely interesting. Included are sample course syllabii which is helpful if you are teaching illustration courses.

The part that I had a problem (maybe that's too strong a word) with was the section on the state of the illustration market today. To me, it came off as old time illustrators whining and pining for the good old days, you know before the computer when one could make a decent living as an illustrator. It wasn't terribly encouraging to new comers which I think is too bad. I rather felt like they were telling me not to waste my time, that there was no room in the industry for me. In the end, it just made me more determined to succeed despite (or in spite) of their views. All in all, it is a thought provoking book, whether you agree with their view point or not, and it's guaranteed to start some interesting dialog with your illustrator friends.

Average customer rating:

A surprising look at Minor White

The Moment of Seeing: Minor White at the California School of Fine Arts

The Moment of Seeing: Minor White at the California School of Fine Arts
Stephanie Comer , and Deborah Klochko
Manufacturer: Chronicle Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | History & Criticism | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 081185468X

Book Description

Founded by Ansel Adams, directed by Minor White, and staffed by such luminaries as Imogen Cunningham, Dorothea Lange, Lisette Model, and Edward Weston, the first fine-art photography department in the United States was created in 1946 at the California School of Fine Arts (now known as the San Francisco Art Institute). Under White's leadership and against a backdrop of revolutions in photography as an art form, this dynamic faculty developed the modern photography curriculum, bringing a new academic pedigree to the medium and establishing the future of photography education. The Moment of Seeing is much more than a history of the program and those who comprised it. Including White's never-before-published writings on the teaching of photography, it is also a rich gallery of iconic images by both renowned faculty members and the dedicated students they taught.

Customer Reviews:

A surprising look at Minor White.......2007-05-13

Most of what has come down to us about Minor White as a teacher and thinker is based on his East Coast career from the late 1950s to the 1970s. This well edited, richly illustrated book deals with Minor White's time at the California School of Fine Arts (San Francisco), where he founded the photography program with Ansel Adams in 1946 and taught until 1953. There are fascinating details here about what was arguably the America's first really rigorous photography curriculum, and about the reception and teaching of people like Dorothea Lange, Imogen Cunningham, and Edward Weston long before they were enshrined in the canon of modern photography. A concluding series of portfolios in this book reminds us that much of Minor White's best work was produced during his early Californina years, and attests to the quality of the work of his first students. This is an valuable book in its own right, but also an excellent companion to the indispensable Minor White: The Eye That Shapes.

The Moment of Seeing: Minor White at the California School of Fine Arts.......2007-01-04

This was an excellent book documenting the work of Minor White and highlighting some of his former students of photography.

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