Summer’s longer days offer an opportunity to make time for activities we often set aside. For me, the extra daylight is an opportunity for one of my favorite hobbies, reading books about art. My interests range from my newest fascination–the subject of color–to learning how to analyze art, and exploring the history of images. Whether you enjoy books on art or simply want to discover some of the newest titles at A.K. Smiley Public Library, I hope these selections encourage you to pick up a book on a topic you love.
Kory Stamper’s True Color: The Strange and Spectacular Quest to Define Color – from Azure to Zinc Pink, explores how the color definitions in Webster’s Third New International Dictionary came to be. Stamper introduces scientist I.H. Godlove who helped revise the dictionary, and with the assistance of his wife Margaret, developed its distinctive color entries. Along the way, Stamper combines humor and engaging storytelling with the history of color science, psychology, and manufacturing in the twentieth century. Readers will also discover fascinating historical tidbits, such as the National Bureau of Standards’ Colorimetry Station, which began developing color-based grading standards for products–including butter and margarine–in 1912. True Color will appeal to readers who enjoy history, language, and the stories behind everyday objects.
From color, we move to the art of looking. In How to Art, Kate Bryan brings comfort to readers who may feel that art appreciation is for experts or for those who studied art. Bryan encourages readers to approach art on their own terms. While there is no correct way to experience, discuss, or enjoy art, Bryan provides practical guidance for anyone unsure where to begin. Apart from viewing art, she also explores a range of topics including how artwork is priced, the different types of museums and galleries, caring for an art collection, and how to write an artist statement. Readers looking for an accessible and engaging introduction to the art world will enjoy How to Art.
Finally, Illustration: A Concise History by Andrew Hall, traces the evolution of illustration from the Industrial Revolution to the post-digital age. Filled with vibrant examples, chapters are organized chronologically and feature the work of influential artists such as French painter and sculptor Honoré Daumier, and Iraqi-British architect and artist Zaha Hadid. Hall also examines 11 commercial genres–including editorial, scientific and medical, and children’s literature illustration. Each feature on the commercial genre provides a brief history, career advice, and profiles of notable illustrators. Those interested in the history of illustration and its current practice will find this well-researched reference work to be an informative and accessible introduction to the field.
Take advantage of the longer days in summer and check out a new book at A.K. Smiley Public Library!
Celina Lozano is a library specialist at A.K. Smiley Public Library.