Oxford First Book of Art - Hardcover

Wolfe, Gillian

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0195215567 ISBN 13: 9780195215564

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1999

Synopsis

A dazzling introduction to the world of art for children, the Oxford First Book of Art boasts a rich collection of images--paintings, drawings, sculptures, and textiles--from around the world and through the ages. Gillian Wolfe uses simple, vivid language to encourage young readers to examine the art and ask questions about its contents and origin. The pictures are grouped by themes, starting with more accessible subjects--"Mother and Child" and "Faces"--and moving on to such abstract concepts as "Light," "Patterns," and "Shapes." Superb, full-color reproductions of art by traditional artists--like Mary Cassatt's "The Bath" and William Turner's "The Fighting Temeraire"--alternate with works from modern art's foremost representatives, including Picasso, Leger, Klee, and Giacometti. The selections range from French and American and to Indian and Maori paintings and sculptures. Wolfe sprinkles numerous quizzes and games among the more serious themes to provide gentle, entertaining guidance to artistically-inclined children.

About this title

About the Author

Gillian Wolfe is the Head of Education at Dulwich Picture Gallery in London. Her publications have won the prestigious Gulbenkian Award for Best Museum Publication in 1997. She is a passionate and experienced communicator of the joys of art to children and young adults.

Reviews

More than anything else, this introduction to art explains how to look at art by asking simple questions about what is shown, in order to understand what an artist is trying to communicate. The samples of artwork are from a wide range of time periods and cultures; medieval and Aboriginal art are included as well as examples of pop, impressionistic, and surrealistic art. While the text explains some of the historical information necessary to understand the works, Wolfe's emphasis is to persuade readers to bring their own experiences to their understanding of art. How are colors used to reflect seasons and temperatures? In what ways do the poses or expressions of people and animals portray emotional states? In this way, those new to looking at art will begin to trust their own interpretations of what they see, instead of feeling intimidated or in need of expert explanation. Large, attractive reproductions invite readers to linger over the pages. (index) (Nonfiction. 5-10) -- Copyright ©1999, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.

Kindergarten-Grade 4-This oversized introduction highlights paintings, drawings, weavings, and sculpture from all over the world and throughout the ages. Wolfe uses examples that children will understand, such as the gentleness and tenderness between "Mother and Child" depicted in Mary Cassatt's The Child's Bath, and, in contrast, a parent's anger in Hubert von Herkomer's The Naughty Boy. Other topics include "Faces," "Figures," "Animals," "Light and Shade," and "Patterns." "That's Strange" features Ren? Magritte's surrealistic Golconda. Each topical double-page spread offers a "Look Closer" challenge where readers are asked to search for details in the particular pieces. A related art activity is also given. An invaluable "Picture List" offers information about where the original works are located, their sizes, the artists, and what mediums were used. Clear, full-color reproductions and photographs illustrate the text. A volume to spark children's imaginations and their interest in art.
Patricia Mahoney Brown, Benjamin Franklin Elementary School, Kenmore, NY
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 1999
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0195215567
• ISBN 13: 9780195215564
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 48