Books matching: art appreciation
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:A must-read, gorgeously accessible intro to art history that will change how you see the world’s masterpieces - just be ready for a hefty (but friendly) tome.
THIS book is intended for all who feel in need of some first orientation in a strange and fascinating field. It wants to show the newcomer the lie of the land without confusing him with details; it ho... - #2
Save:A thought-provoking, conversation-starting classic that forever changes how you look at art and media - just be ready for basic visuals and a retro vibe.
An image is a sight which has been recreated or reproduced. It is an appearance, or a set of appearances, which has been detached from the place and time in which it first made its appearance and pres... - #3
Save:A beautifully written meditation that uses tea as a lens for understanding Japanese culture, philosophy, and art - not a tea handbook, but a philosophical treat. Sip slowly and savor.
Tea began as a medicine and grew into a beverage. In China, in the eighth century, it entered the realm of poetry as one of the polite amusements. The fifteenth century saw Japan ennoble it into a rel... Masterful, immersive, and meticulously researched - this book is the definitive Caravaggio biography for art lovers and history buffs, though those looking for a lighter read or more pictures may want to dip in, rather than dive deep.
Caravaggio’s art is made from darkness and light. His pictures present spotlit moments of extreme and often agonized human experience. A man is decapitated in his bedchamber, blood spurting from a dee...- #5
Save:Witty, opinionated, and insightful - a must-read for anyone curious about the origins and evolution of modern art, even if it occasionally pulls no punches.
In 1913, the French writer Charles Péguy remarked that “the world has changed less since the time of Jesus Christ than it has in the last thirty years.” He was speaking of all the conditions of Wester... - #6
Save:The Power of Art by Simon Schama explores the lives and works of eight remarkable artists across five centuries. This book is more than just a collection of artworks; it dives into politics, philosophy, and the personal stories behind each artist, offering readers a deeper understanding of art's impact on society and individuals. Schama's engaging prose invites readers into the world of the artists, revealing their struggles and triumphs while highlighting the beauty and complexity of their masterpieces.
The writing style is both scholarly and accessible. Schama uses vivid storytelling to make the artists' stories come alive, often inspiring readers to see familiar works in a new light. The book features stunning photographs of the artworks, enhancing the reading experience. Though it serves as an accompaniment to a BBC documentary, the book stands on its own, captivating art lovers with its passion and insights.
- #7
Save:'Art as Therapy' by Alain de Botton and John Armstrong explores the therapeutic effects of art on both creators and viewers. Through unique insights and comparisons of illustrations, the authors delve into the educational and moral value of art, showcasing how it can promote noble conduct and values. is intelligently written, providing original insights on the functions of art, with a central thesis that the main beneficiary of art should be the individual experiencing the specific work as opposed to focusing solely on the motives of the artist or the context of creation. The writing style is described as elegant, thought-provoking, and philosophical, using artworks to draw from and touch on various subjects, offering a fresh perspective on art and its usefulness to humanity.
- #8
Save:A satisfying blend of Regency romance, artistic passion, and a touch of mystery - perfect for fans of historical fiction who love character-driven stories with a painterly setting. Not flawless, but definitely one of the better entries in the Fallen Angels series!
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Fallen Angels ) - #9
Save:A beautifully written, thoughtful, and often funny primer on how (and why) to really look at art - perfect for dipping into whenever inspiration strikes.
- #10
Save:Cat Crawford, a 21st-century girl, is transported back to 16th-century Florence by a mysterious gypsy, where she finds herself living as her ancestor, Patience D'Angeli. The story follows Cat's adventures as she navigates the challenges of adapting to the past, forming relationships with her newfound family, and falling in love with Lorenzo Cappelli, a local artist. The book combines elements of historical fiction, time travel, romance, and humor, creating an engaging and delightful tale that captures the essence of Renaissance Florence.
Rachel Harris skillfully weaves a story that immerses readers in the vibrant world of 16th-century Italy, complete with detailed descriptions of clothing, scenery, and mannerisms. The plot is filled with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats while exploring themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery. The writing style is engaging and humorous, with a relatable protagonist in Cat, who undergoes personal growth and learns valuable lessons as she experiences life in a different time period.
I concentrate on the monitor in front of me and scan through the in-flight entertainment, attempting to tune out Jenna. Like that’s even possible. When my dad’s bubbly fiancée gets this excited, I swe...
