If you've not heard of one, then allow us to enlighten you!
A few months ago MAVA. Inc decided it would be a brilliant idea to start a book club just for us artists! A book club where we would explore and discuss all sorts of art books, from how-to books, biographies, coffee table books, books full of wonderful art and books with next to no art. We discuss anything and everything that is related to the world of art, artists and our processes.
For about one to two hours a month we meet on a weeknight to discuss all the things that are inspiring us in the world of art books, as well as the not so good, of course. So far it has been thoroughly inspirational, educational and eye opening.
And if you're wondering whether we go off track on other tangents, we most certainly do. Podcasts, movies and TV shows. They make an appearance as well. As long as it is about art then it is welcome!
Though our book club is small it is full of laughter, good banter and many life stories.
Since we have explored so many incredible books, we wanted to share some of those with you, from our first book club catch up!
SMALL, FUN AND INTERESTING
101 Things to Learn in Art School by Kit White
This is a great little book with lots of hand drawn sketches and accompanying tips or suggestions which are perfect to get you mulling over new ideas or as simple reminders for your art life and practice.
We've included some examples of the pages below.
Images source: Booktopia
You can purchase it on Booktopia at this link.
MASTER OF STILLNESS
A fabulous coffee table book
Master of Stillness - Jeffrey Smart by Barry Pearce
If you would like to purchase this book, it can be found at a local bookstore with no need to worry aout shipping delays! Eltham Bookshop has copies available at this link.
FUN, HUMOUR AND REALITY
Who doesn't love a bit of reality for us artists? Funemployed is a light hearted, humorous read that might be just what you need.
Funemployed by Justin Heazlewood
At first this book proved to be quite difficult to buy online but after searching thoroughly the best price we could find was $20 and it’s direct from Justin's website. Follow this link to purchase or read more about it.
A BIT ABOUT PROCESS
Figure drawing for all its worth by Andrew Loomis
An oldie but a goodie.
For those of us who want to learn a bit more about figures and proportions. Applicable to not only when drawing.
Straight to the point, educational and full of beautiful illustrations.
Might even be just the right gift for Christmas. You can purchase it from Dymocks here.
VISUALLY ENTHRALLING
Patterns in the Landscape - The Notebooks of Philip Hughes
Highly recommend by one of our regular Art Book Club attendees.
This book is a feast for your eyes with stunning images. It is a visual record of the travels of Philip Hughes stretching from UK to Australia and everywhere in-between.
Unfortunately we have not had much success finding a copy online.
If you are interested you may have to ask at your local bookstore or contact Philip Hughes directly.
We couldn't list them all here, however here are a few more gems
Stones and stains: The drawings of Victor Hugo
A Year in The Art World - An Insider’s View by Matthew Israel
Clear Seeing Place by Brian Rutenberg
Failed It! by Erik Kessels
The Artist’s Quest for Inspiration by Peggy Hadden
There you have it. A trip down a lane full of wonderful art books to spark your creativity. Our next book club meeting is on the 24th of November at 7pm and we would love to see you there. If you click this link, you can RSVP now.
We can't wait to see you there!
- The MAVA Inc. Team