No comments about Grand Scale: Monumental Prints in the Age of Durer and Titian (Davis Museum and Cultural Center, Wellesley College).

3 comments about Art and Feminism (Themes & Movements).

1. This book would be an excellent textbook for a Women In Art course. It doesn't have much information on centuries prior to the twentieth and largely focuses on art, artists, and issues from the 1960's on, so it wouldn't do as the only text for such a course. But this is all you need for late twentieth century concerns.
   
   The early essays are dripping with Freudian psychology and psychoanalytical social criticism. The issues surrounding why it took so long for there to be a sense of equality of greatness amongst artists of all genders is explored deeply. The issues of representation of all races and sexual orientations then follows. The book stops just short of discussing the newest research on intersex persons (persons born with an extra chomosome, among others {XXY, for example}).
   
   For a movement that was intending to create a sense of equality, feminist theory highlights both the vast differences as well as the profound similarities between the perception processes of men and women. This includes both the perceptions of and different approaches to art as well as life. Yet, when all is said and done, more recent artists are primarily interested not in these issues, but more a sense of having their work judged based on its quality, not their gender.
   
   The only disappointment I have in this book is one that no other book addresses either. So, I mean this only as a minor criticism. In short, the book does not answer the following: Is ther an intersex mind state? Feminist theory either didn't reach the point of asking this in time for the extensive research put into this book or it has come to its conclusion and will transform gradually into a whole other movement.
   
   The art chosen to represent the above ideas and explorations is top quality. The reproductions are sharp and colorful. I would recommend this book to anyone with interests in women in art or in feminist theory.



2. This book is a great "picture book" for anyone interested in art and/or women artist. The descriptions of the work are concise, giving enough information to make you want to investigate further. A necessary addition to any art book collection.



3. I saw this book reviewed in Bust mag and am so glad I got a copy for myself. Peggy Phelan and Helena Reckitt have accomplished a "portable gallery" in this book--it is like seeing all of the works themselves, but with commentary that helps at every step of the way.

   Peggy Phelan's introduction is great because she draws everything together in a way that I couldn't do on my own, and actually, I am amazed ANYONE could do it. Wow.

   The book is expensive but worth it because otherwise you would have to buy about 100 books to try and do for yourself what they did here.

   Peggy and Helena, and all the artists, YOU ROCK!!!

No comments about Ando Hiroshige (Taschen Basic Art).

5 comments about The Potter's Complete Book of Clay and Glazes: A Comprehensive Guide to Formulating, Mixing, Applying and Firing Clay Bodies and Glazes.

1. ...merely a tool, which definitley involves work on behalf of the reader. There are no pictures or test tiles to rely on; you have to try them yourself... a refreshing change from the results usually included in glaze books because you have to experiment and come up with your own results. I used the 1970's edition of this book as an undergraduate, which included the original recipes - not revised to exclude toxins - and while the revised edition is informative, it lacks the conversions for the "toxic" ingredients which many of us still use for the stunning results they provide. As a result some of the best recipes have been excluded from the new edition, and unfortunatley, the replacements and substitutions produce nowhere near the results gained from earlier editions. Still a good tool for the potter who enjoys glaze experimentation, but if you can score a copy of an unrevised edition(there are two- and they are out of print), you are sure to be pleased!



2. Many of these glazes are from other sources , same for clay bodies , but have been altered slightly to be presented anew. No real emphasis on glaze toxicity . Fritting Barium and Lead does not guarantee safety in the finished glazes . It's a case of user be aware . No guidelines for glaze usuage on functional wares or decorative . Is the glaze able stand table use - who knows ? Another in the long line of Artistic Glaze books , Ho Humm.



3. I was disappointed by this book due to the lack of illustrations even if only of test tiles. If the author has tested these formulae I cannot understand why these illustrations were not included, but without them the reader is left having to conduct his own test to determine the effects achievable. If the author has not tested, then the book is little better than the lists of glazes available free on the internet. Either way the reader is left with a lot of work to do.



4. This book has everything you could ever want in a glaze book. Includeing every chemical you need for glazes and charts on how much colorants to add in percentages. Every kind of glaze for every cone. I didnt' pay too much attention to the clay makeing part but thats not hard to do.



5. Chappel provides a complete compendium of formulas for various types of clays from low fire to porcelain. He provides extensive formulas for various types of glazes from low fire to cone 14. The formulas are arranged by type, color and includes speciality glazes such as crystaline glazes. He provides complete instructions for firing. In addition there is a good discussion of materials, substitutions and toxicity.

1 comments about Giddy Up! Cowgirls Gone Loco! A Gallery Girls Book (Gallery Girls Collection).

1. The latest edition in SQP's Gallery Girls collections takes a trip to the old west with Giddy Up! Cowgirls Gone Loco! Cowgirls are new avenue for the Gallery Girls Collection but as usual, SQP has lined up the usual array incredibly talented pin-up artists to bring these stunning ladies to life. Good ol' fashion Americana at its finest! The roster for this edition includes Arantza, Joe Pekar, German Ponce, Pelaez, Ernesto Cumpian, Danilo Guida, Perla Perlucki, and Marcelo Sosa. Stefano Mazzotti provides the front cover while Danilo Guida handles the back cover, both in full-color.
   
   In a way, it seems rather odd that these mostly Spanish and South American artists would be working a theme so inherently "American" as the wild west, but trust me, it all works out very well. In side is everything from sharp-shootin' gun-slingers, saloon girls, Indian maidens, and rodeo girls (usually using their ropes in erotic bondage illustrations).
   
   Alejandro Ferrero gives us a sheriff and her deputy surrounded by horde of blood-thirsty Indians...we know she's the sheriff because she has her badge tattooed on her buttocks! Diego Florio's sexually enticing "Big Boobs Jane, Wooden Signs" has a rather amply blessed young lady who uses her assets to paint with in lieu of paintbrushes. Pelaez's soft, subtle lines and attention to detail is always a highlight of any Gallery Girls collection and this one is no exception. Palaez provides us a sexy topless cowgirl brandishing a flaming branding iron. Arantza's contributions are always highly anticipated as well. One of her pieces showing an Indian lass atop a rearing horse is certainly one of the book's best pieces.
   
   Giddy Up is printed on high quality, glossy stock, with 64 pages of gorgeous women. The wild west has NEVER been this wild...or this hot!
   
   Reviewed by Tim Janson

5 comments about Layers: Inspired Collage for Paper Projects with Meaning.

1. Had I been able to browse this book, I definitely would not have purchased it. The title is very misleading. For those that are interested in learning collage techniques, don't waste your money on this book. Instead purchase Collage Discovery Workshop by Claudine Hellmuth and Artist Trading Card Workshop by Berlin. Both books are loaded with very cool techniques and awesome photography. I've bought and used both of them and would rate both 5 stars.



2. "Layers" is beautifully written and illustrated. Shari put her heart and soul into this wonderful book of crafts. I hope she will write more!



3. Shari's book is simply amazing! She uses so many different elements to create wonderful pieces of art! I love how she has put so much of herself into this book. It's like I know her!
   
   Many of the items in her book, I have in my craft room. ANd I just love how she uses found objects in her project to create that collagy look to them. Makes me want to go out now to find items to use on my own projects! Although, I bet I can find the found objects in our garage right now!
   
   Thank you for creating such a wonderful book!



4. Shari Carroll's book is a unique approach to collaging her life experiences. Rather than putting them all on pages in a scrapbook, she has chosen many creative objects to present them. There are so many, but some of them are chipboard made into a chalkboard, old electrical outlets to make accordian picture frames, matchstick boxes to make a collapsing case(template included), wire screen to make a booklet, a darling door hanging made out of chipboard circles, and brown paper bags to make a booklet. Of course, all of these are collaged with bought and found items.
   As a crafter, I have the majority of the materials needed: papers, glues, brads, eyelets, stickers, all the tools except the Japanese screw punch(but I do have an awl), buttons, etc. Most people should have access to the found objects needed, such as brown paper bags, matchstick boxes, old electrical outlets, wire, old books, washers, old door knobs, etc. I do not have a wine case, but I do have some old wooden cannisters which would work for that project. With some creativity, many of these projects could be adapted to meet the artist's needs. I would have to buy the chalkboard spray but seldom do I start any new project without having to buy something.
   As far as collaging with meaning, everything in this book that is collaged has deep meaning for the author. I love how she shares this meaning with the reader. Furthermore, many of the objects made can also be given as gifts to family and friends to honor them for being a part of her life. Kudos to Shari Carroll for a book well done.



5. I think this is a fantastic book for the beginning to above average crafter/artist. Of course if you are professional or very seasoned artist you probably already know the things in this book, so why would you be buying it? You'd be writing your own. For those of us budding artists that like or need inspiration and new ideas, this is the book to get!

No comments about Decorative Tile Designs CD-ROM and Book (Full Colour Electronic Design).

5 comments about The Illustrated Star Wars Universe (Star Wars).

1. Take the artistic talents of acclaimed production artist Ralph McQuarrie and the writing skills of prolific author Kevin J. Anderson (The Jedi Academy Trilogy) and you get The Illustrated Star Wars Universe, a coffee table book that gives readers a glimpse of the various planets showcased in George Lucas' original Star Wars Trilogy (1977-83).

   Using McQuarrie's production sketches and paintings for A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi and other Lucasfilm projects (including the Endor-based television specials of the mid-1980s plus preliminary sketches for the 1997 Special Edition updates), Anderson takes readers on a grand tour of the most important planets seen in the Luke Skywalker/Darth Vader half of the Star Wars Saga. Starting with Tatooine, the desert world that is the home world to both Anakin Skywalker and his son Luke and ending with Alderaan, the planet where Princess Leia was hidden from her father and was doomed to be destroyed by the Death Star, eight planets are described in individual chapters, each told not by one omniscient narrator but by eight different observers, each with his or her point of view and/or political agenda.

   For instance, while the chapter on Tatooine is an anthropologist's dispassionate and scientific report on the desert planet's hostile environment and its hardy inhabitants (ranging from the nomadic and hostile Tusken Raiders and scavenging Jawas to the resilient human moisture farmers and their homesteads), the description of Coruscant, the massive city-planet which was once the seat of power of the Old Republic and is the capital of Emperor Palpatine's Galactic Empire, is a pro-Imperial propaganda article authored by Pollus Hax, the Emperor's chief public relations expert and "spin doctor."

   Although much of the artwork featured in The Illustrated Star Wars Universe has been published elsewhere (either in the various Art of Star Wars books relating to the Classic Trilogy or in McQuarrie's Star Wars Portfolios), this combination of production paintings and Anderson's vivid and imaginative text works wonderfully and adds detail and background to both the movies and the post-Episode VI Expanded Universe novels, including Anderson's own JedI Academy trilogy and Darksaber.




2. Awesome Illustrations and enjoyable narratives to go along with them. Lots of fun.



3. Ralph is one of the Best Illustrators that i know.His work is very inspirating for me.If you are true fan of Star Wars you just need this book.Excellent printing on high quality paper.Don't wait and buy this piece of art.



4. This incredible book help you feel like all the Star Wars universe and its planets are real. You read the accounts of the "writers" and you think that they really exists.
   It helps to understand all the story and the beutiful pictures help to get into.
   A MUST book for a Star Wars fan.



5. This book really showcases the beautiful artwork of Ralph McQuarrie, who helped establish the look of the Star Wars films way back at the dawn of the story as we know it. In this book we see fascinating early visual drafts of things that we would later see in the movies. Most of it was impossibly fantastic to ever get filmed at the time but maybe we'll see some of it in the next two movies.

   The chapters on Alderan and Bespin are particular fascinating and beautiful.

3 comments about Velvet Love Vol 2.

1. For tastefully arousing illustrations -- of girl/girl loving -- this two volume series from Stefano Mazzotti and Vincenzo Silverstroni is a visual delight.
   
   Volume 2 (like the previous issue) provides about two-dozen nicely depicted girl/girl vignettes. The right page illustration is full-color - while the left page provides earlier (version) pencil sketches.
   
   This sequel, though, is somewhat "toned down" from the original. There's less bondage, less manual touching, and less copulation with toys (at least in color). There is, however, a lot more use of tongues (for licking and oral sex) - and a bit more kissing (although both appear in black & white).
   
   
   Here are some of the visual highlights:
   
   Two Dallas Cowboy-style cheerleaders (in hot pants and white boots) - embrace each other's faces to kiss - after they've managed to lose half of their costumes.
   
   Two babes in schoolgirl garb (white blouses and plaid skirts) - lick earlobes - while using hands to defend their dignity.
   
   A buxom redheaded nurse -- hikes her skirt to allow her kneeling co-worker - a chance to nuzzle her face up against her see-through undies. (Their pencil sketches - without costuming -- are much less reserved.)
   
   A blonde, bottom-less, and clean-shaven teacher - is worshipped by her kneeling and redheaded student. Both girls are smiling towards the viewer (in color) - but are much more orally engaged (in black & white).
   
   A cheerleader in blue sits with legs crossed (and facing us) - and reaches with her tongue - to lick her partner's center (who stands while giving us a nice rear view). Both girls are - without panties.
   
   Two young women -- with dress shirts and ties undone - frolic on a leather massage chair. Their penciled versions kiss - and finger one another passionately - in a chair with much larger arms.
   
   Two totally naked girls (except for one who wears sun glasses and a large hat) sun themselves elegantly - while sucking on frozen popsicles. Their ruder penciled versions substitute a strap-on, instead.
   
   In one of the more dramatically depicted scenes (for enthusiasm), a smartly attired golfer - tees off bottomless - while her caddie kneels and nuzzles up into her from behind (as far as her face will go). Their naked selves kiss gently on the preceding page.
   
   Lastly, in one of the prettiest (and sexiest) illustrations, a gorgeous lass, totally nude (with fuchsia colored hair) - stands behind her partner who wears leather hosiery - the latter bending forward at the waist to show off the red-stick-of-dynamite-style toy she inserts deliciously from the rear.
   
   
   Although the color renderings (in this issue) aren't as explicit - the black & white drawings are much more romantic (with more kissing) - and more intimate (orally satisfying). For girls (or guys) just starting out in their enjoyment of images - of beautiful women (making love) together - this is the volume that I would more highly recommend. Enjoy.



2. This a straight continuation of what is in the first volume - pencil sketches and text (not related to the images) on one side of a two-page spread and a finished color artpiece on the other side. Given that there are only 48 pages in each volume the question arises - why publish them as two books rather than one book since the prices together are not expensive, but presumably the publisher thinks they will sell more this way. I think the color illustrations in some respects are a little too slick, but I like them regardless, as I'm sure will others who find the subject appealing.



3. SQP is back with a second helping of luscious lesbian love with Velvel Love Volume Two courtesy of Stefano Mazzotti and Vincezo Silvestroni. This edition features 48 more pages of both full-color and black & white paintings and sketches of gorgeous woman enjoying themselves and each other. This one is definitely for mature audiences but it will be another surefire hit to fans of glamour and pin-up art.
   
   Mazzotti and Silvestroni cover a myriad of subject types in volume two including cheerleaders, business women, schoolgirls, nurses, and all manner of athletic types. These girls are packed and ready to play with their whips, leather corsets, and strap-ons and these two talented artists let the viewer in on all of the steamy action, page after page.
   
   The basic format is that the even pages show the sample sketches and the opposing odd numbered pages shows the finished painting based off those sketches although they are not exact. These sensuous subjects truly enjoy gorging themselves on a nice, cool Popsicle...or similar objects! The paintings have an uncanny photo-realistic quality and the sparks fly on each and every page. There's lots of great stuff in here and I think the pair even manage to one up the first volume. A truly scorching new release for m SQP!
   
   REVIEWED BY TIM JANSON

3 comments about Collage with Color: Create Unique, Expressive Collages in Vibrant Color.

1. I really loved this book; it gave me new tools and ideas to work in my studio and to share with my friends and Alumni, from my art classes. I highly recommend it if you love to experience with color in a creative new way.



2. What I like most about this book is that it is a refreshing break from all the Somerset Studio look alike and same-looking altered book stuff out there (yes, I was surprised--this also has a few altered book things in here, and they're different and mildly interesting). Wow. Originality. Getting ever harder to come by in the modern paper art/craft publishing world.
   
   This book is actually more of a volume on paper decorating, with a bit of collaging principles and craft ideas included. This isn't bad. I read a lot of paper craft and art books, and I still found plenty in here that made me want to break out the paints and paper. And, as the title says, this is about color--how to decorate paper with it, how to combine it, how to make patterns with it. Unlike the previous reviewer, I didn't find the examples too bright. This is, after all, a book with "vibrant color" in the title. And here it is demonstrated by someone who truly understands it and is passionate about it. These examples sparkle.
   
   This is refreshingly different. No faux edginess which just looks bland the thousandth time you've seen it, or works featuring people wearing pasted dunce caps. You will instead find a nice basic, lucid overview of color concepts; great ideas for using acrylic paints to make interestingly decorated papers; and some ideas for combining these papers in aesthetically pleasing ways.



3. The author covers a lot of ground quickly here. While not as in-depth as Traci Bautista's "Collage Unleashed," Davies touches on many techniques and applications. The examples were way too bright for my tastes and didn't personally inspire me, but they work well as examples to see what's going on with the technique and provide a nice change of pace from the muted Victoriana that's so prevalent elsewhere. The photos also show the hand models with paint on them, which I really enjoyed after seeing many impossibly clean hands in other books. Yes! You will get paint on your hands and it's OK! I particularly enjoyed the Prayer Flags project, modelled after Tibetan prayer flags, and the Book Page Collage & Letter Stamps ideas.