Van Gogh

The only way to fully appreciate the complexity of van Gogh as a person is through thoughtful observation of his art. A dedicated but mentally fragile man who never attained notoriety during his 37 years, van Gogh has since become one of the most celebrated artist of the last two centuries. The book includes an appropriate mix of popular paintings, such as Starry Night and Sunflowers, with many of his more obscure, critically acclaimed pieces. Examining works of art in the context of major events in the artist's life an ethereal blooming almond branch upon the birth of his namesake nephew; the intimate sketch of his pregnant prostitute paramour; and, most iconically, the shaky brushstrokes of a starry night in the sky above the mental asylum where he convalesced in his later years illustrate more about his life and times than any narrative could. Still, the book's biographical introduction is thorough, and the explanation of van Gogh's lasting impact resonates.--Anderson, Erin Copyright 2015 Booklist

Gr 6-10-Excellent, in-depth examinations of celebrated painters. Each of these titles opens with a context-setting introduction, followed by a few pages of biography, and then moves on to a lengthy section detailing major works, along with technical analysis and biographical and historical background. All of the books are lavishly illustrated with large reproductions of the works, photographs of the artists, and relevant artifacts of their respective periods and cultures. The authors are adept at establishing in simple terms the social and aesthetic implications of the artists' bold choices. A final chapter in each book includes information on where to find museums displaying the paintings. The biographical sections are surprisingly brief, though more details are supplied in the artwork sections. VERDICT These outstanding introductions are well suited for both research and ready reference. © Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.