Pause: 59 Minutes of Motion Graphics

All creatives need to go to a museum now and then; it's inspiring, encouraging, and refreshing. The problem that motion-graphics artists face is the lack of venues in which to present their work. Pause :59 Minutes of Motion Graphics is a showcase that helps fill that void; an oasis of images that are designed to enlighten and motivate.

This oversized softcover (which uses time code instead of page numbers) presents some of the finest work from a global pool, 300 lavish frames that illustrate the best in contemporary video design, motion graphics, and animation. This collection--featuring such luminary studios as The Attik and MTV, and individual artists like Mike Mills and Richard Kennworthy--is not to be missed. It's a shame that the pictures don't move.

In fact, if there's anything to complain about, it's the fact that there's no accompanying video, CD-ROM, or DVD to display the stunning work in this book properly. Even a Web site with QuickTime clips would have allowed readers to study and admire the work as it was meant to be presented.

If you create animation--or plan to--or do anything that's related to video, film, or motion graphics, you should read this book. Eye-popping, international, and oozing with creativity, Pause :59 Minutes of Motion Graphics belongs not on your shelf, but on your desk; open, accessible, and well worn. --Mike Caputo