Jill Martinson

Women have been inspiring contributors to the world of art throughout history. You’ll find wonderful books in our circulating collection featuring artists such as Frida Kahlo, Faith Ringgold, Mary Cassatt, Georgia O’Keeffe, Judy Chicago, Berthe Morisot, and Alice Neel. The following titles are the latest additions to this very important and intriguing collection.

Artemisia Gentileschi is known for her dramatic and realistic paintings depicting strong, assertive female characters. Born in Rome, 1593, she was a pupil of her father, a successful painter who studied in Caravaggio’s Baroque style of painting. Much of her art revolved around biblical and mythological themes. “Artemisia Gentileschi” by Sheila Barker covers the life of this fascinating painter while examining the cultural and political backgrounds of the time. An absorbing book with beautiful color reproductions throughout.

“The Women Who Changed Art Forever: Feminist Art – the Graphic Novel” by Valentina Grande and Eva Rossetti offers a unique graphic overview of four artists who brought the struggles and inequality towards women in the art world to light. As the authors state about the artists: “Each made their mark in their own powerful way. Judy Chicago made us reassess the female body, Faith Ringgold taught us that feminism is for everyone, Ana Mendieta pushed the boundaries of identity, while the Guerrilla Girls have taken the fight to the male-dominated museum.” After reading the short backgrounds on these art activists, take a more in-depth look into their lives and art with the following titles: “Judy Chicago: An American Vision” by Edward Lucie-Smith, “Faith Ringgold” by Lisa E. Farrington, or “Guerrilla Girls: The Art of Behaving Badly.”

Maggie Doherty’s “The Equivalents: A Story of Art, Female Friendship, and Liberation in the 1960s” focuses on poets Anne Sexton and Maxine Kumin, painter Barbara Swan, sculptor Marianna Pineda, and writer Tillie Olsen. These five women were some of the first to receive fellowships to the newly created Institute for Independent Study at Radcliffe College. A requirement for applicants was to have either a doctorate or “the equivalent” in creative achievement. So this group of friends dubbed themselves “the Equivalents.” Opening in 1961, the program was envisioned to help women with children pursue their dreams of becoming scholars and artists. It gave them the support and opportunities to follow their artistic passions. Doherty delves into the friendships, personalities, obstacles, and careers of these women and the progression of feminism in this captivating story.

The next time you visit Smiley Library, please stop by our circulating art collection. These paintings were created by the talented men and women from the Redlands Art Association and are available to check out and take home for six weeks. There is a limit of two pieces of art per checkout. It’s a great way to support our local artists and enjoy a piece of Redlands culture.

Spending more time outdoors has made a positive impact on me, both physically and mentally. It’s restorative to be out walking among the trees, along the coast, or wandering through a new city, learning a little history and admiring its culture. When you’re ready to step out, Smiley Library has a number of new books full of ideas for your outings.

Urban hiking combines the adventure of exploring interesting neighborhoods while enjoying the outdoors. Your journey may take you past historic architecture, colorful murals, shorelines, or town squares. “Urban Hikes Southern California: A Guide to the Area’s Greatest Urban Hiking Adventures” by Robert Inman showcases 41 different hikes along with maps, mileage, and pictures to pique your interest. Walk or take a ride on Angels Flight, the historic funicular railway in downtown Los Angeles featured on the Little Tokyo-Bunker Hill hike. Check out the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge in San Diego while roaming the Bankers Hill-Balboa Park vicinity. Inman even highlights a 5.8 mile loop hike right here in Redlands. If you have yet to walk around the 1897 Victorian mansion Kimberly Crest in Prospect Park, the French chateau cottages of Normandie Court, or look up into the colorful umbrellas above Orange Street Alley, then you should definitely put this on your list. The Redlands hike also references “the magnificent” Smiley Library. We couldn’t agree more.

Our circulating collection contains a variety of hiking guidebooks featuring different locales. These guides are useful resources with comprehensive lists of trails including information such as length, difficulty level, maps, and descriptions of the area. They include treks from easy day hikes to longer back-country trips. Just a few of the areas covered are the San Bernardino Mountains, Palm Springs, Anza Borrego, and the Pacific Crest Trail. Our newest additions would be perfect for experienced hikers and those up for an extended adventure. “Sierra North” and “Sierra South” by Elizabeth Wenk and Mike White take you into the gorgeous Sierra Nevadas of California on overnight to week-long backpacking expeditions. The authors include 80 trips for each book, so there is a wide range of excursions to choose from. My husband and I really enjoy the Bishop Pass trail out of South Lake. Even for day hiking, these useful books will introduce you to one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the West.

Tailored for kids, “Wild Days: Outdoor Play for Young Adventurers” by Richard Irvine is such a fun book to spark ideas for exploring nature. Over 50 activities, crafts, games, and lessons will encourage your kids to engage with the outdoors. Suggestions include stargazing, going on treasure hunts, listening to birdsong, building rope swings, and floating reed boats. This educational guide will entice your child to spend hours of fun in the fresh air.

We have many beautiful public hiking and walking trails available in Redlands. Enjoy the open space of San Timoteo Canyon or Herngt ‘Aki’ Preserve for starters. Information and maps can be found on the following website: www.redlandsconservancy.org/map and handouts of these maps are available at Smiley Library’s reader’s advisory desk. Brochures are also available for walks in the downtown Redlands area. Spotlighting prominent buildings and homes, “A Walking Tour of Historic Redlands” and “A Personality Tour of Historic Redlands” will help you discover Redlands’ past.

Laughter has been shown to have health benefits such as releasing serotonin and endorphins, decreasing stress and boosting the immune system. A hearty laugh can make us feel more positive and resilient. The act of laughing can even burn a few calories, although personally, I would have to be in a constant state of hysterics in order to attain the desired results.

Importantly, humor helps us cope during tough times. With that in mind, take a look at the following books and DVDs. I hope they offer a bright spot in your day.

Comedian, actress, and best-selling author Phoebe Robinson is back with her third book “Please Don’t Sit On My Bed in Your Outside Clothes.” Her personal essays encompass a wide array of subjects including race, her decision to be child-free, and her seriously comedic interactions with her British boyfriend. Written in a conversational style, her book covers important topics with a comic wit.

Known for her popular Instagram series, “The Girl Who’s Never Been on a Nice Date,” Quinta Brunson has gone on to produce and act in BuzzFeed videos and work on “A Black Lady Sketch Show.” In her first book, “She Memes Well,” she shares her early years in Philadelphia, her love of comedy, and her move to Los Angeles. Enjoy her personal stories, the role social media plays in her life, and her rise to celebrity in the comedy world.

Many people became acquainted with the accomplished playwright and actor, Leslie Jordan, from his recurring role on the sitcom, “Will and Grace.” In his new book, “How Y’all Doing?: Misadventures and Mischief from a Life Well Lived,” he reflects on life growing up in a southern Baptist family in Tennessee, shares encounters with celebrities like Lady Gaga and Debbie Reynolds, and expresses his surprise at going viral on Instagram at 64. A fun, sweet, and short collection of stories.

Other book titles to consider:

“All About Me!: My Remarkable Life in Show Business” by Mel Brooks; “Broken (in the best possible way)” by Jenny Lawson; “Mixed Plate: Chronicles of an All-American Combo” by Jo Koy; “Where the Deer and the Antelope Play: The Pastoral Observations of One Ignorant American Who Loves to Walk Outside” by Nick Offerman; “The Wreckage of My Presence: Essays” by Casey Wilson, and “Yearbook” by Seth Rogen.

We also have an extensive collection of funny movies on DVD available for checkout like “Forrest Gump,” “Young Frankenstein,” “My Cousin Vinny,” “Shaun of the Dead,” “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” “Office Space,” “Duck Soup,” and “Airplane.” I’m certain you’ll find more than one that will put a smile on your face.

Editor’s note: The Library has temporarily suspended in-person services beginning January 18th. All of these great books–and more–can be checked out through our Books-to-Go program by calling, emailing, or using your on-line account. There is no cost to place a book hold.

With the holidays drawing near, it’s the perfect time to create handmade gifts. Smiley Library has a large crafting collection suitable for all skill levels and interests. Our books will be sure to spark ideas for those who appreciate quilting, jewelry making, sewing, rock painting, origami, paper craft, embroidery, and so many other endeavors. Adding a personal touch to your gifts is fun, thoughtful, and one-of-a-kind.

I love the idea of enjoying the outdoors while collecting supplies for a crafting creation. “52 Nature Craft Projects” by Barbora Kurcova showcases designs using nature’s beauty. Instead of buying store-bought wrapping paper, scout out acorns and fir branches, dip them into paint and press their shapes onto brown paper. Tie it up with a pretty ribbon for a unique gift wrap. If you’re looking for a beautiful autumn present, try the Conker Wreath project, made of acorns, pine cones, and foraged fall treasures. The Twig Letter project, which details how to bend twigs into a chosen letter, creates a striking and personalized initial to hang on a door or wall. If you decide to head out to the San Bernardino National Forest, check with the local ranger station first to see what rules apply for collecting forest items, such as pine cones or greenery. A permit may be required. Other outdoor places to find supplies may be Christmas tree lots or perhaps, even your own backyard. Kurcova’s book is filled with projects that are enjoyable, natural, and best of all simple.

“Mini Amigurumi Animals: 26 Tiny Creatures to Crochet” by Sarah Abbondio is perfect for crochet fans who have a little leftover yarn they need to use. These cute creatures will be great toppers for presents, tree ornaments, or additions to a key ring. Clear instructions and patterns are provided. Although the book is written in UK crochet terms, Abbondio provides equivalent terms for those in the U.S. With so many different animals to choose from, you’ll be sure to find a favorite or two. Make a whole troop of monkeys, a skulk of foxes, a tower of giraffes, or a scurry of squirrels.

For those with a newborn or infant in their lives, “One-Stitch Baby Knits: 22 Easy Patterns for Adorable Garments and Accessories Using Garter Stitch” by Val Pierce will help you create something truly special. Pierce takes you step-by-step through each project, incorporating color pictures and skill level ratings so you know which project to tackle first. The Striped Yoke Cardigan and Sleepy Cow Hat and Drawstring Mittens are darling.

On order and available for checkout soon, knitters will also enjoy “Knit Hats with Woolly Wormhead: Styles for the Whole Family” by Woolly Wormhead. Her innovative hats have such a fun sense of fashion and flair. This is definitely one to look out for.

Don’t worry if you’re brand new to a certain craft; just find something that interests you and begin. If all else fails, you can always strive to get your project into a book like “CraftFail: When Homemade Goes Terribly Wrong” by Heather Mann.

For my first needle felting project, I tried sculpting a bee and for some reason, it came out looking like it had a head of short spiky hair. Basically, it had a “buzz cut,” which in retrospect is quite the appropriate hairdo for a bee.

Photography is an expressive, creative, and enjoyably challenging way to capture a moment in time and I’ve always appreciated the process of striving for that perfect shot. Whether you’re using a DSLR, mirrorless, point and shoot, smart phone or film camera, the first step to taking great photographs is to become educated about your gear. Smiley Library’s photography books will not only teach you how to use your equipment, but will help with technique, composition and taking the best possible pictures you can. Here are a few of our latest offerings.

There is a real knack for taking natural-looking photographs that convey personality, especially with a camera-shy kid or one who is unamused and completely “over” getting her picture taken. Tamara Lackey takes you along on her own photo shoots in “The Posing Playbook for Photographing Kids,” all while describing the process she uses to get outstanding images. Personality types, gear, lighting, composition, shooting indoors and out is all explored and explained. Whether you are photographing your own kids or others, you’ll want to incorporate her valuable ideas and take images with charisma.

Filled with stunning photographs and innovative ideas, Glenn Randall’s “The Art, Science, and Craft of Great Landscape Photography” is an enlightening book of outdoor photography. An intermediate to advanced book geared towards those who already have a basic understanding of photography, Randall analyzes the science behind capturing beautiful nature photographs. He shares his principles of scouting, such as acquainting yourself with an area and having an image in mind, before heading out to a shoot. He details how to determine the positions of the sun and moon to best set up your shots. From the formation of rainbows to capturing the Milky Way, there is a lot to learn here and this is one book that you’ll want to devote some time to explore.

Pet photography is so much fun and those blessed with animal friends love to show off pictures of their goofy smiles and silly antics. “How to Take Awesome Photos of Cats” by Andrew Marttila is loaded with helpful suggestions and photos of animated feline furballs. Marttila investigates cat behavior as well, while teaching you all the photography basics you’ll need to enhance your skills. Don’t worry, I’m currently on the hunt for a book to teach my fellow dog lovers how to get awesome photos too.

Smiley Library is continually expanding its circulating collections and searching for the best books we can find. Here are even more brand-new additions to our photography collection ready for you to take home and enjoy.

• “Digital Photographer’s Handbook” by Tom Ang
• “Digital SLR Photography All-in-One for Dummies” by Robert Correll
• “National Geographic Photo Basics: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Great Photography” by Joel Sartore
• “Smartphone Photography in Easy Steps: Covers iPhones and Android Phones” by Nick Vandome

One, two, three…say cheese!