With summer in full swing, many of us are taking time to explore our hobbies and interests, or we are digging deeper into the things we are studying. With the library stacks still closed, let me take you all on a short browse through the stacks to explore some books about Art.
I at first felt a bit intimidated on how to approach such a wide and impactful topic. The word ‘art’ encompasses an exhaustible range of methods, mediums and forms. Should I structure it by looking at different mediums? Or by different regions and groups? In the end, I decided that there was really no way to be comprehensive, but to treat this as very small sampling or a quick browse through the stacks; easy and casual. All these titles are available either in our collection or via your L-Pass from Edmonton Public Library. Just click on the covers for more information on each book.
Indigenous Art
First, let’s begin at home by appreciating some of the diverse and richly symbolic Indigenous art of Turtle Island. I have included titles that focus on traditional forms of art such as beadwork, soapstone and totem pole carving, as well as some work from contemporary Indigenous artists using mediums such as painting and drawing.
Canadian Art
Our collection has no shortage of titles on Art in Canada. There were so many to choose from I just picked a few that might be helpful to those new to Canadian Art. You can also click here to see more in our catalogue.
Art and Activism
Art and activism have long been entwined together. These titles highlight art made by marginalized groups and explore the connections of protest with art.
Art Around the World
One of my favourite things to do on a hot summer day while on vacation, is to find a local art gallery and take in the works. As many of us are forgoing long-distance travels this summer, here is a sampling of books that will enable you to explore art from around the world.
Fundamentals and Theory
For those studying art or wanting to delve a little deeper, there is more theoretical writing on art, like these recommended titles.
Mediums or Technique
One thing that continuously astonishes me about art, is how we manage to invent new ways of making. Using anything from clay to complex digital machines that capture light and colour information, art can be found hanging in galleries and or spraypainted into alleyways. These books explore different mediums and techniques of art.
Stories About Art
Finally, I often learn and connect with topics far better when I am able to experience them connected with a narrative. Here are a few books that take historical events around art or an artists life and expand on them to put you into the time and place when it was created.
So that concludes our little exploration of the art section. Remember if you have any questions about library resources, or this post has sparked a sudden interest or you, feel free to Ask Us. My colleagues and I are always happy to help you explore and find what you need.