The Drawing Book; A Survey of Drawing: The Primary Means of Expression

The works in this book, by artists, architects, sculptors, scientists, filmmakers and thinks of all descriptions, attest to the versatility and immediacy of drawing. From first thoughts to finely wrought, elaborate artworks, from the lightest sketch in pencil to bold, gallery-wall installations, the medium is shown as a primary vehicle for creativity.
The recent prominence of artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Robert Smithson, Chris Ofill, Rachel Whiteread, Ellen Gallagher, and a host of others who use drawing as a means of expression, is addressed in both the works shown and essays by curators Kate Macfarlane and Katharine stout, and art writer Charles Darwent. The Drawing Book takes us on a journey through five themes - measurement, nature, the city, dreams and the body, selected and introduced by artist Tania Kovats. Each is illustrated with a diverse range of images, from the old masters - Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Durer - through great Modernist pieces by Rodin, Picasso, Matisse, and others, and on to the contemporary artists who are reviving drawing today: a new and unique approach to a timeless medium.

"Ancient and modern works jostle against each other, creating thought-provoking juxtapositions and parallels." - Blueprint