Artists of Nigeria analyzes the influence of different art systems (museums, cultural institutions, art fairs, galleries, the internet) and cultures on the development of modern and contemporary Nigerian art in the past 100 years. Organized chronologically, and including biographical notes on the artists and lavish color illustrations, this unprecedented book charts the development of modern Nigerian art, and analyzes the works of significant Nigerian artists and art movements within the country and beyond. This comprehensive overview demonstrates the variety and vitality of Nigerian artists and confers on them a visibility they are often denied in global publications. Among the artists featured are Olowere, whose work is in the collections of the British Museum, the Detroit Institute of Arts, and the Smithsonian Institution; Chike Aniakor, who has a PhD from Indiana University; and Uche Okeke, whose work has been shown at the Sherman Gallery at Boston University.
This most comprehensive and authoritative dictionary of Japanese artists has been continuously in print and used by scholars and connoisseurs of Japanese art since first published in 1977. The pertinent facts related to approximately 3000 painters, printmakers, sculptors, potters, and lacquerware makers born before 1900 are concisely listed, including their art names (in kanji and romanized), brief biographies, descriptions of their work, collections in which their work is included, and books and periodicals in which their work is discussed or illustrated. Extensive appendixes, glossary, bibliography and complete indexes – including artists by alternate names and Japanese characters – make this an essential reference for all those interested in Japanese and East Asian art.
This dictionary offers the most comprehensive compilation and English translation of those idiomatic expressions that so enrich the Japanese language but fail to find their way into conventional dictionaries.
The period between the fall of the Tang dynasty in 907 and the establishment of the Song in 960 has not been treated kindly by historians. Called the period of Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms, after the five successive but short-lived dynasties of the north and ten dominant smaller kingdoms in the south, it is often dismissed as a bleak chapter in Chinese history, a half-century of national disunity and anarchy. However, while it is true that the north during this time was continually ravaged by attacks from Khitans and Turks, its roads and canals falling into disrepair, the south enjoyed a time of peace, economic prosperity, and cultural growth. This engaging study by the eminent Sinologist Edward H. Schafer examines one of those kingdoms, the so-called Empire of Min, centered in the coastal and semitropical present-day province of Fujian. Schafer describes the geography, government, and political structure of Min, as well as its economy, arts, literature, and religion. As those familiar with the work of Schafer might expect, this is far more than a compilation of dry translated excerpts from dynastic histories; rather the interesting economic and political issues of the day are made clear, and its colorful characters and their various machinations come alive. We see how the Empire of Min, although it survived for just a half century, nevertheless played a pivotal role in the transition between the Tang and Song dynasties, the two great cultural peaks of medieval China.
Hainan Island is the southernmost extent of what is now the People’s Republic of China. Today the island is strategically important for its geographic position and its rich mineral and oil resources, and economically important as a thriving tropical resort. Historically, however, Hainan had been regarded as a backwater by successive Chinese dynasties. In Shore of Pearls the eminent Sinologist Edward Schafer recounts the history and culture of the island, annexed during the reign of Han emperor Wu Di in 111 BC, when Chinese armies defeated its indigenous Li people. Pearl gathering became an important industry, and this “treasure island” also yielded other luxury goods prized by the Chinese court, including incense, medicinal herbs, precious metals, tortoise shell, ivory, and exotic woods. However, the difficulty of colonizing and exploiting Hainan’s riches changed its reputation from a “treasure island” to one of a “dank, poisonous land unfit for normal men,” and it later became a place of exile for scholars and officials who had offended the court, including the great poet Su Shi, as well as a lair for criminals and pirates. As in Vermilion Bird, Professor Schafer writes precisely and poetically about this fascinating interface between China and the cultures of its southern borders. Also available: 9781891640377 Vermilion Bird, $50.00
This twelfth century catalog assembled by Tu Wan is the first whole work in Chinese literature devoted to stones as objects of aesthetic value. By this date the appreciation of viewing stones in gardens and in the studios of scholars had ignited a craze.
The Royal Palace of Palermo, today seat of the Sicilian Regional Assembly, is one of the symbols of Sicily and of the rich Sicilian and national patrimony. Formerly a fortress, then royal palace and finally building of government, the palace is today an extraordinary and fascinating monumental complex. A casket of artistic treasures like the Palatine Chapel commissioned by Roger II, testimony of the deep encounter between the cultures of the Normans, the Byzantines and the Arabs. The origins of the Palace go back to the xii century, while its present look is mostly due to the additions made by the Spanish viceroys during the Renaissance. Its history is rooted in the viii century B.C., when can be dated the Phoenician structures discovered during the digs of 1984. The scholarly essays of this book, together with the new photographic campaign realized by the photographer Ghigo Roli, are an indispensable guide to the history of the Royal Palace, its manifold functions and the timeless fascination of its rich artistic heritage.
“It is wonderful, an instant classic and certainly the most comprehensive and useful single volume on the subject ever written.” – Donald J. La Rocca, Curator, Arms and Armor, The Metropolitan Museum of Art “For those looking for an informed introduction to the topic this book is a treasure trove.” – Natasha Bennett, Curator of Oriental Collections, Royal Armouries, Leeds, UK Arms & Armour Of India, Nepal & Sri Lanka is a very visually-driven and broad-based introduction to the unique world of arms and armor of the Indian region, encompassing India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, areas with strong martial traditions. It provides an overview of types of arms and armor, with extensive geographical and historical context with many illustrated maps, their decoration and methods of adornment, as well as the iconographic and religious symbology. A unique and valuable feature of the book is an illustrated glossary. It is specifically designed to suit the needs of anyone wanting to familiarize themselves with this topic and the region. It can serve as a reference for the novice collector, and as an image resource for experts. This would include anyone interested in arms and armor in general, antique dealers, museums, general art market, educators, and of course, collectors. There has been increased interest in both collecting and scholarship regarding Indic arms and armor. Nearly every major auction on Indian and Islamic material tends to include arms and armor. Contents: Introduction; Terra Indica; Warfare In The Early Centuries; History: The Essentials; Steel, Trade And Distant Influences; Arms; Armour; Tribal Arms And Armour; Nepal; Sri Lanka; Decoration; Symbolism; Extraordinary Exemplars; Illustrated Glossary; Resources; Tips On Collecting; Museums/Collections; Further Reading; Index.
Published on the occasion of an important international loan exhibition at The Azerbaijan National Museum in Baku, this multi-author book is much more than a mere catalogue. Containing previously unpublished research and a wealth of previously hidden material from museums and private collections around the world, and written by a team of international museum professionals and independent scholars, it is the first co-ordinated and detailed study of the West Caspian region’s characteristic silk embroideries. The book traces the history of embroidery in the Caucasus, the multi-cultural sources of domestic embroidery, iconography and designs in which the textile traditions of the Iranian and Turkic worlds meet, materials and needlework techniques, as well as the relationship between embroidery and the pile carpet weaving tradition in the region.
Contents:
1 Silk Treasures of Azerbaijan, Alberto Boralevi & Asli Samadova
2 Historical Azerbaijan, Murray L. Eiland III
3 Caucasian Embroideries in Context, Penny Oakley
4 Safavid-style Domestic Embroideries from Historical Azerbaijan, 1550-1800, Michael Franses
5 Silk Culture in the Caucasus, Irina Koshoridze
6 Azerbaijan Embroidery Techniques, Jennifer Wearden
7 What Went Before to Make It as It Was? Caucasian Embroidered Textiles from The Textile Museum Collection, Sumru Belger Krody
8 Busily Engaged on Embroidery : Collecting and Curatorship for the V&A, Moya Carey
9 An Early Museum Collection: Azerbaijan Embroideries in the V&A, Penny Oakley
10 A Shared Design Lexicon: Azerbaijan Embroideries and Rugs, Brian Morehouse
More and more people have become aware of the proven effectiveness of green drinks in preventing, treating and reversing a wide array of health conditions and diseases. This pretty metal box contains 50 recipe cards for the most delicious green smoothies made of fruit and vegetables, quick and easily prepared, for all who want to stay fit and healthy. Go Green and let yourself get surprised by the multitude of unexpected taste experiences. Also available: The Little Box of Cocktails ISBN 9783958431300 – $16.99 In the same series: The Little Box of Lego Projects ISBN 978386859265 – $16.99
When Mike Seaborne began photographing the Isle of Dogs in the early ’80s he was struck by how it retained its traditional industrial character, despite the efforts of Thatcher’s reign.
His black-and-white photographs reveal an eerily desolate landscape which would soon be home to financial heavyweights and epic skyscrapers like Canary Wharf. They show an area of East London now almost beyond recognition, just before the money moved in.
“The well-judged employment of classical detail in a new home has an additional significance that cannot be underestimated. It is an expression of an informed personal choice and an evocation of the delight in the human senses. This is true of all the houses featured in this book.” Jeremy Musson
“The architects and craftsmen that Phillip has featured in this wonderful book all have a love for classical detail. The art is alive and well, as can be attested to in these pages.” David Easton
In The Art of Classical Details, Phillip James Dodd takes a close-up look at some of the finest examples of contemporary classical architecture. The book consists of two chapters: The Essays and The Projects. Starting with a foreword by renowned decorator David Easton, The Essays are written by some of today’s most sought after architects, scholars and craftsmen. Accompanied by sumptuous full page photographs and renderings that illustrate a use of fine materials, intricate detailing, and superb artisanship, these insightful texts are essential reading for anyone with an interest in the theory, practice and craft of classical design. The Projects presents an illustrated look at 25 of today’s finest classically-designed homes. Employing the theories prescribed in the writings of the first chapter, this portfolio of contemporary buildings exhibits the work of some of the most recognizable and celebrated architects in Great Britain and the United States. The work featured in within this book demonstrates the timeless beauty of classicism, and delights in the role that superbly crafted details play in creating art.
“Neural networks do not understand what optical illusions are.” – Technologyreview.com
“Some pictures tell a thousand lies.” – hplyrikz.com
An optical illusion confuses the eye by pretending to be something it isn’t. It both misleads and deceives the brain, which is trying to make sense of the information the eye is sending. This book presents a selection of brain-bending optical illusions featuring graphic art and photography by 60 artists, and includes an overview of the history of optical illusions in art.
In an ever-changing digital world, marketeers might feel like they are constantly chasing an evolution they can’t keep up with. And rightly so. Tesla cars can warn us of accidents before they have happened. Amazon has drone delivery up and running. Consumers are getting ready to embrace virtual reality, augmented reality and chatbots. Where do we go from here? To bridge the gap between the technology-addicted consumer and marketeers that are constantly chasing the facts, those marketeers can no longer rely on yesterday’s solutions. This book offers an aid to finding new ways out of the slump and in centralizing innovation in every marketing plan. Reviewing success stories and best practices forms an added dimension to this approach: by figuring out which methods worked in the past, why and how they worked, we can set out for even greater results – even in the ever-changing digital age.
“The first and taboo-breaking book on negative birthing experience. Will provide a big support for many women!” Tosca Gort, psychologist “An eye-opener for women with birth trauma and a must-read for care professionals who want to learn more.” Dr. Claire Stramrood, gynecologist “I wish this book had existed four years ago. My friends and family seemed to be pushing the joy of motherhood down my throat while, to me, the delivery felt more like a landslide. Thanks to Diana’s coaching, I became the old Maria again.” Maria, mum of two daughters Childbirth deeply affects the life of a woman and her partner. Fortunately the effect is usually a positive one. Many people declare the day their child was born as the most beautiful day of their lives. However, giving birth can also be a negative experience, with long-term consequences. This book explains how a negative birthing might affect you, your relationship with your baby and your partner. With the help of practical exercises and honest accounts from women who have overcome birth trauma themselves, you will learn to process this experience and restore your inner balance. Described as “The first and taboo-breaking book on negative birthing experience,” this book will provide a pillar for many women, who have been suffering in silence for too long.
The unique selection of almost 300 paintings and drawings collected in The Realism of It shows the evolution of artist Rik Vermeersch and unveils an amazing coherence throughout his work. His earlier gestural paintings later make room for more objective work, the so-called ‘digital paintings’, nudes in particular. With texts by Paul Depondt and Matthijs Van Dijk.
Collecting objects gives enormous pleasure to approximately one third of the population, providing such benefits as intellectual stimulation, the thrill of the chase, and leaving a legacy. On the other hand, the same pursuit can engender pain; for example, paying too much for an object, unknowingly buying a fake, or dealing with the frustrations of collection dispersal. Until recently, there was no objective way to enhance the positive (pleasure) aspects of collecting and minimize the negative (pain). Now, for the first time, scientific research in neuro- and behavioral economics gives us a way to turn this around.
Neuroeconomics is the study of the biological foundation of economic thought, while behavioral economics incorporates insights from psychology and other social sciences into the examination of monetary behavior. By using examples from these disciplines, Shirley M. Mueller, MD, relates her own experiences as a serious collector and as a neuroscientist to examine different behavioral traits which characterize collectors.
The contents of this book are cutting edge, unique and sure to get attention. Mueller breaks new ground in an area not previously explored. Her information is relevant not only for collectors, but also for colleges, and universities which teach collection management, plus museum staff who interact with collectors and dealers of objects desired by collectors. Heavily illustrated with ceramics from Mueller’s collection and packed with useful information, this book will become a required vital resource.
From rockers to ravers, The Illustrated Book of Songs is the book every music lover will want. In quick-witted style, Irish writer Colm Boyd navigates us through lists of classic songs for every occasion. Prepare yourself for fascinating facts, cool illustrations and withering commentary on songs presented in lists such as:
Songs about Getting Dumped
Songs about Prostitution
Songs about Environmental Matters
Songs about Being a Complete and Utter Asshole
Songs about Gender Identity
Alternative Christmas Songs
The Illustrated Book of Songs
features 70 lists, discussing hundreds of songs from different genres and artists – from Adele to Aretha, Jagger to Jarvis, Rufus to Rosalía. Many of the songs are well-known, others are a little more off-radar. Some have amazing musicality, some have lyrics – quite literally – worthy of a Nobel Prize. Some deal with death, others deal with zebras, one song deals with prostitute-frequenting chess players in Bangkok. You get the idea.
Each of the book’s lists is accompanied by a scannable Spotify code, allowing readers to use their smartphones to directly access the songs mentioned. So, time to get reading and get listening.
Check out the book’s website for more information: colmboyd.com/the-illustrated-book-of-songs.
To rid the world of the evil, ten-headed Ravana, the Hindu god Vishnu appears on earth as a heroic prince, Rama. The devotion of his brother Lakshman, his marriage to the beautiful Sita, and encounters with demons, giants, sages, and holy men form favorite episodes familiar to any Hindu child. Taken from the holy text, the Ramayana, these stories conclude with Rama’s efforts to rescue the kidnapped Sita, aided by Hanuman, leader of an army of monkeys. These incidents have been retold and lavishly illustrated using original paintings from a 16th-century Mughal manuscript.
“Adimoolam’s work, in addition to being inherently attractive, is also intriguing for its unusual deviations off regular artways. Mapin Publishing’s The Art of Adimoolam is a show-and-tell of this journey and largely succeeds in giving readers/viewers an idea of the geography of Adimoolam’s routing in art and art’s forms and locations. Sinha’s writing maintains a sensitive balance of technical and human-interest angles….” -The Hindu K. M. Adimoolam’s art resists easy categorization. He brings to his work a genuine spirit of inquiry, and a continually rejuvenating wonder at the generative cosmic possibilities of art. He makes profoundly aesthetic choices, bringing to his abstract painting and apparently realistic drawing sheer, unambiguous artistic skills. Adimoolam is primarily optimistic; his paintings resonate with a pleasure in the sensuality of the medium of oil, its dexterity and movement, and its ability to translate emotion into color. What all the works have in common is his preoccupation with presences and fields outside his immediate perception, and a graded move towards the ideal space of pure abstraction. This for Adimoolam is the vivid, magnetic Other, the field of consciousness-energy or citsakti-one that is not personalized in any way, but which hints at the possibility of the deepest realization.
Celebrating Public Spaces of India is an attempt at understanding architecture as a defining feature in the identity of the ‘public space’ and its influence on evolving modes of urbanism in India. Through a carefully curated list of more than fifty vibrant landmarks across the length and breadth of India, this volume analyzes and highlights the socio-cultural functional strength of public spaces within the urban fabric of cities. Featuring evocative photographs and drawings, this volume strives to understand the mechanics of these built and open structures, and their influences on urban cityscapes. With insightful original research, the book is an invaluable resource for anyone wishing to understand the nature of the Indian urban public space.
Handmade and handcrafted objects are a part of daily life in Gujarat. The crafts of Gujarat demonstrate the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature and offer meaningful lessons in sustainable living for future generations. The ingenious use of natural and locally available materials is combined with a unique aesthetic, bringing together form and function in each magnificent product. With simple tools, adherence to norms set by tradition and with their imagination, the artisans of Gujarat have embodied human potential. Traditional skills are now applied to create products for the contemporary world, demonstrating convincingly that natural and handmade products are adaptable over time, and, that tradition continues to be relevant in modern times.
The City Palace at Udaipur is part of a living cultural heritage that has survived in an unbroken line of custodianship from medieval kingship to modern democracy. This volume traces the cultural lineage of the palace through its art and architecture, arriving at a conservation model designed to preserve this magnificent structure for the future. Beginning with the historical precedents that led to the selection of Udaipur as the new capital of Mewar State, the authors of Living Heritage of Mewar trace the evolution of the palace, its sequence of inner and outer chambers, and the subsequent expansions, which added Mughal and British influences to its Mewar Rajput architecture. The authors, who are also conservation scholars, have outlined in this beautifully illustrated volume a master conservation plan that combines modern and traditional methods within the context of the unique history, condition and conservation needs of the City Palace Udaipur.