An Eye for Art: Focusing on Great Artists and Their Work

Gr 5 Up—An introduction to the works collected in the National Gallery of Art. More than 50 great artists are highlighted, from the 13th to the 21st centuries. The artists and their works and techniques are helpfully arranged stylistically in categories that include "Studying Nature," "Observing Everyday Life," "Exploring Places," and "Telling Stories." Through graceful, illuminating prose, readers learn how some of the most masterful artists (mostly European and American) the world has ever known created their art and developed their styles; some minorities and women are included. For each master, full-color reproductions of representative works are presented, along with enlightening quotes; occasionally, details of the artworks get lost in the gutters. For each artist, an "Explore More" feature invites readers to make their own art by replicating the masters' techniques and/or to engage in a variety of meaningful creative thinking and writing activities. This fine resource allows readers to develop an understanding and appreciation of fine art. It should have broad appeal for general audiences.—Carol Goldman, Queens Library, NY