A First Book of Canadian Art (Wow Canada!)

A fascinating introduction to the rich, varied texture of Canada's art and artists

A First Book of Canadian Art is a remarkable voyage of discovery. From the earliest art of Canada's native peoples to the latest contemporary artists, this beautifully written overview introduces young people to major artists and artistic movements that tell the story of Canadian art.

Stunning paintings, photography and sculpture give the book its drama and visual excitement. The art itself is the jumping-off point for concise and fascinating descriptions of the artists, their work and important themes about making art in general. Anecdotal stories about the personal interests and intent of the artists, how they worked and the world they lived in, vividly personalize the subject for young readers.

Laying a foundation of key names and images, this splendid tour of Canadian art begins with the ancient petroglyphs, totem poles and inuksuit of Canada's indigenous peoples. It moves through giants of Canadian art, from Paul Kane, Cornelius Kreighoff, Tom Thompson and Emily Carr to Jack Chambers, Alex Colville, Bill Reid and Michael Snow, and on to leading-edge contemporary artists, including Jana Sterbak, Ian Carr-Harris and Jane Ash Poitras, as well as recent trends in photography and video art. This richly varied journey takes the reader through hundreds of years of artistic expression across Canada.

What better time to celebrate Canada's internationally renowned artists than on the cusp of a new millennium? A First Book of Canadian Art gives young readers an excellent understanding of the history of Canadian art and brings them up to date on the evolving methods for creating art today.

This special volume, with over 150 color images, makes a landmark contribution to Canadian children's culture.

Richard Rhodes was born in Montreal and currently lives in Toronto. A notable writer, curator, photographer, teacher and journalist, he is also the editor of Canadian Art magazine. The largest art magazine in the country, Canadian Art is an important chronicler of Canadian visual arts, past and present.