Water (Artists of the World)

Grade 5-8-- Excellent reproductions and accessible texts provide a remarkably effective introduction to the world of art. Each book contains 20 paintings from a wide spectrum of artists and styles; most are works by European and American artists, but a representation of women and non-Western works is included. Each painting is accompanied by a small portrait of the artist. The Richardsons speak directly to their readers without condescension, catching just the right tone to engage the enthusiasm and invite responses from children. Recognizing that young people will be drawn to the books by interest in the topic, or because they like to look at pictures, or because they want to be artists themselves, the authors' remarks are addressed to all three constituencies. A second remarkable aspect of this series is the abundance of 20th-century art included, placed for comparison next to 19th-century or Renaissance masterworks, and discussed in terms of the artist's vision, technique, and/or school of painting. The world of modern art is opened up as legitimate, exciting, and intensely colorful. Although first published in England, many of the works are from American museums. These are important considerations, for surely readers will want to follow the authors' suggestion to search out and see the original works. --Shirley Wilton, Ocean County College, Toms River, NJ
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.