Art's Prospect: The Challenge of Tradition in an Age of Celebrity

Book Description

Most of the really invigorating action in the art world today is a quiet affair, Mr. Kimball observes. It usually involves not the latest thing but permanent things--they can be new or old, but their relevance is measured not by the buzz they create but by the silences they inspire. With reviews and essays composed over the last twenty years and revised for this book, Art's Prospect illuminates some of the chief spiritual itineraries of modern art. There is much to be learned and enjoyed in these stimulating, provocative, and elegant essays. --Paul Johnson

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Roger Kimball's incisive essays examine the art world from a fresh, skeptical perspective. From Gauguin and the Pre-Raphaelites to the latest exercises in artistic absurdity, Kimball's keen eye and lucid prose makes for bracing, entertaining reading. He sets himself dead against the shallow rhetoric and celebrity/money culture of the contemporary art world, breathing new excitement into debates over what we value in art and why. Art's Prospect is savage and hilarious in debunking chalatanism, but at the same time informed and insightful in revealing the best of contemporary art. Whether he is meditating on the concept of kitsch in the Pre-Raphaelites, the cultural pathology that has led critics to compare Gilbert and George's preposterous images with the Isenheim altarpiece, or the genius of such disparate painters as Paul Gauguin and Richard Diebenkorn, Kimball proves himself to be one of the liveliest critical minds in the art world today.

Customer Reviews:

Traditionalist or modernist?.......2006-12-22

There are enough good points about this book to make it a worthy purchase. As a painter struggling to work within a traditional academic style of painting, I welcome most all of the well-deserved bullets fired at the modern "art" establishment, such as the excellent work being done by the Art Renewal Center. That being said, this book indeed has its problematic aspects. From reading the reviews and the blurb for this book one would think that the author would be a latter-day champion of traditional western art and its values - at times he does indeed seem to be so inclined. However, when one reads through the progressive essays and notices that the author takes denigrating shots at the likes of latter-day masters such as Burne-Jones, Moreau, and Leighton, while singing praises for Matisse and the modern art critic Clement Greenberg, one begins to wonder if there is a self-denying modernist masquerading behind a traditionalist veneer. At least he does get the evaluation of Odd Nerdrum correct. Worth a look, but traditional artists and enthusiasts looking for a kindred spirit should be on the lookout for some of the rather odd and contradictory opinions presented here.

Refreshing, honest.......2004-12-13

Funny and irreverent, Kimball captures prosaically what so many of us artists and art lovers often feel. The nexus between art critics, gallery owners, and celebrity has always been insidious. Kimball shows no mercy when jabbing at politically correct shibboleths in the established art economy.

Contrary to what another reviewer (I must wonder whether he actually read the book) has posted here twice, Kimball does indeed offer us guidance in how to "approach art" with one very important message: The art itself and by itself is always more important than the critic. What he does not do is genuflect before the altar of over-intellectualization and deconstruction that enthralls so many art poseurs.

Highly recommended.

Refreshing Counterpoint.......2004-10-11

In an artworld where cynicism and duplicity are the norm, Kimball offers an important commentary of the lack of values that inform much of the art and art criticism today. For most critics, art need only be "challenging" to be good. Kimball clearly states the importance of craft, skill and intellectual rigour as disciplines which artists need to cultivate. Kimball's stylish prose and precise vocabulary make this a highly enjoyable read.

Solid insights.......2004-09-11

Kimball is a breath of fresh air in the world of art criticism. Also, the New Criterion, the magazine his writes for, is terrific.

Book Description

This is the first Oxford Companion to deal with the subject of photography. It appears at a watershed in the medium's history, as digital imaging increasingly dominates the global photography scene at both amateur and professional levels. In addition to a wide range of technical information, the book encapsulates in concise and readily accessible form the mass of recent scholarship on photography as a social and artistic practice, organized both thematically and geographically. There are over 800 biographical entries, both on photographers and on other individuals who have significantly influenced photographic culture from the early 19th century to the present. The book's scope is worldwide. The international team of contributors is made up of leading authorities in their fields, and include: Heather Angel, Sylvie Aubenas, Quentin Bajac, Marta Braun, Clement Cheroux, Elizabeth Edwards, John Falconer, Colin Ford, Ron Graham, Sarah Greenough, Mark Haworth-Booth, Roger Hicks, Paul Hill, Jens Jaeger, Jan-Erik Lundstrom, Naomi Rosenblum, Rolf Sachsse, Martha Sandweiss, Graham Saxby, Joan Schwartz, Sara Stevenson, Roger Taylor, Regine Thiriez, John Ward, Liz Wells, and Mike Ware. The book is extensively illustrated and includes many pictures never before published. The majority of the 1600-plus entries include suggestions for further reading. But the work's usefulness is further enhanced by the inclusion of an extensive bibliography, a chronology of photographic history, a list of important websites, and an index of people.

Customer Reviews:

The Oxford Companion to the Photograph.......2007-02-05

Great book. Very informative entries. Would have liked to see more photos that "show" examples of what the entries describe in words.

Outstanding photographic reference book.......2007-01-17

This is an excellent reference book on photography. It covers noted photographers, photographic history, photographic theories, and a great deal more. Oxford Companion books are well known for their exceptionally good quality. The section on digital imaging, for example, is one of the best I have ever read.

Please note that this is a reference book. It is not designed to teach photography. However, any serious photographer or photography student will find this book useful. This book would also make a superb gift for anyone interested in photography.

A Valuable Resource.......2006-02-21

It is through and useful. It's useful as a reference for various techniques, but I use it mostly as a way to refresh my memory on the hundreds, even thousands, of photographers of whom I've heard or encountered. Really first rate reference book.

A must have for your library........2005-11-29

I received this book as a gift and am amazed at the thoroughness with which the subject of photography is covered. The illustrations are beautiful and plenty and the content, rich. This is a must-have for anyone with even a passing interest in photography.

*THE* definitive reference to the world of the Photograph.......2005-11-22

This outstanding book covers every aspect of photography, from techniques, to biographies of photographers, to photographs and exhibitions and much more. It is a perfect resource for anyone with an interest in photgraphy, from the art lover to the novice photographer to the most seasoned professional photographers. I was really impressed with the paper quality, and the image quality. It is definitely as described, lavishly illustrated with some breath-taking photgraphs, in color and black and white throughout. And of course, the jacket design makes this a perfect coffee-table book, one you can pick up and browse, and find something interesting every time you dip in to it. For a big, fat art book, the price isn't bad either. Highly recommended for anyone with interest in photography.

Average customer rating:

The Oxford Companion to the Photograph
Robin (EDT) Lenman
Manufacturer: Oxford University Press, USA
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000OKW61M

Average customer rating:

The Oxford Companion to the Photograph
Robin Lenman
Manufacturer: NY
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000N7IPIY

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Outdated and very predictable humor

A wry comic classic

For Lovers of English Humor

The Papers of A.J. Wentworth, BA (Prion Humour Classics)
H. F. Ellis
Manufacturer: Prion
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Humor | Entertainment | Subjects | Books
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The Diary of a Nobody (Oxford World's Classics)

ASIN: 185375398X

Book Description

A huge success when first published in 1950 in Britain, and in America as "The Vexations of A.J. Wentwovth," this exquisitely funny journal charts the tribulations of an earnest but gullible school master.

Customer Reviews:

Outdated and very predictable humor .......2007-07-25

I did not laugh, and what worse, I left this book before the end, something I really rarely do.

This is NOT classic English humor. The comic situations are very basic and the dialogs not very witty. The effort to be funny is too obvious, and therefore ineffective.

A wry comic classic.......2001-02-06

H.F. Ellis' Papers of .J. Wentworth, BA is a wry comic classic which presents the 'letters' of an unmarried teacher who comments on education, teaching methods, and obstinate pupils. A fun gift for any who appreciates humor, literature and the perils of teaching.

For Lovers of English Humor.......2000-11-01

H. F. Ellis' book is a true classic of written English humor. His work compares favorabily with the work of Jerome K. Jerome and P.G. Wodehouse. Ellis' dry sense of humor and excellent use of language makes this one of the funniest books I've read in a long time. At first, seeing the snooty pretensioness of schoolmaster A.J. Wentworth constantly pricked and deflated is hysterical, but before long you'll be on his side and saying aloud between the laughs "Poor, poor chap!"

Book Description

The complete guide to Hollywood's Most Influential Film-maker.

Covers all of Lucas's work as a director, films as producer and as screenwriter. Maxford also includes all available information on the yet-to-be filmed Star Wars prequels 2 and 3.

Customer Reviews:

"Must" reading for all George Lucas fans and enthusiasts........2000-06-04

An excellent guide for film buffs and a recommended pick for enthusiasts of George Lucas' cinematic accomplishments. Howard Maxford's George Lucas Companion covers not only Star Wars, but all of Lucas's film and television work. Black and white photos pack chapters which discuss his products, film company, and industry conflicts and achievements.

Book Description

This critical discography of Wagner's Tristan und Isolde opens with an introduction that illustrates the challenges the opera poses to performers. The discography lists all complete recordings, all major selections, and hundreds of individually recorded vocal and instrumental excerpts from 1901 to 1999. Information was researched in major public collections and libraries in France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Pirate recordings and fictitious conductors are identified, and an extensive list of arrangements from the opera, ranging from piano to jazz ensemble, and a list of performances on video are included. This unique discography will appeal to Wagnerian scholars, opera fans, and record collectors. Of special interest is a listing of the timings of complete performances, including some early Bayreuth performances not on disc and more than 200 recordings of the Prelude and arrangements of the Liebestod.

"Tristan und Isolde" on Record: A Comprehensive Discography of Wagner's Music Drama with a Critical Introduction to the Recordings.(Review) : An article from: Notes

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"Tristan und Isolde" on Record: A Comprehensive Discography of Wagner's Music Drama with a Critical Introduction to the Recordings.(Review) : An article from: Notes
Gary A. Galo
Manufacturer: Music Library Association, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Digital

Online Books | Books & Reading | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

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Book Description

This digital document is an article from Notes, published by Music Library Association, Inc. on September 1, 2001. The length of the article is 989 words. The page length shown above is based on a typical 300-word page. The article is delivered in HTML format and is available in your Amazon.com Digital Locker immediately after purchase. You can view it with any web browser.

Citation Details
Title: "Tristan und Isolde" on Record: A Comprehensive Discography of Wagner's Music Drama with a Critical Introduction to the Recordings.(Review)
Author: Gary A. Galo
Publication: Notes (Refereed)
Date: September 1, 2001
Publisher: Music Library Association, Inc.
Volume: 58 Issue: 1 Page: 64

Article Type: Book Review

Distributed by Thomson Gale

A comprehensive introduction to music literature: Zone 5. Teacher text, (Hawaii Music Program)

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A comprehensive introduction to music literature: Zone 5. Teacher text, (Hawaii Music Program)
Allen R Trubitt
Manufacturer: Addison-Wesley
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding

Massachusetts collection of martial musick: Containing a plain, easy and concise introduction to the grounds of martial musick, laid down in the most comprehensive ... benefit of the militia of the United States

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Massachusetts collection of martial musick: Containing a plain, easy and concise introduction to the grounds of martial musick, laid down in the most comprehensive ... benefit of the militia of the United States
Alvan Robinson
Manufacturer: Robinson
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Unknown Binding
ASIN: B0008AQLBO

MIDI : A COMPREHENSIVE INTRODUCTION (THE COMPUTER MUSIC & DIGITAL AUDIO SERIES VOLUME 7)

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MIDI : A COMPREHENSIVE INTRODUCTION (THE COMPUTER MUSIC & DIGITAL AUDIO SERIES VOLUME 7)
Joseph Rothstein
Manufacturer: Oxford University Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: B000OL82I2

Music: A Comprehensive Introduction, Workbook Number 1: Music Theory

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Music: A Comprehensive Introduction, Workbook Number 1: Music Theory
S. Porter , and S. Porter
Manufacturer: Routledge
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

Book Description

2 charming dolls, 32 accurately detailed costumes depict special occasion outfits worn in Provence, Bordeaux, Brittany, Burgundy, the Basque country, Normandy, Alsace, and other regions of France. Full skirts, embroidered shirts and bodices, ruffled aprons, knee pants plus quaint headdresses and footwear.

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Good

Excellent!

Excellent, well worth the money

Best Job to have!

Excellent resource

FabJob Guide to Become a Personal Shopper (FabJob Guides)
Laura Harrison McBride , Peter J. Gallanis , and Tag Goulet
Manufacturer: FabJob.com
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Job Hunting & Careers | Business & Investing | Subjects | Books
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Start Your Own Personal Concierge Service (Entrepreneur Magazine's Start Ups)

The Pocket Stylist: Behind-the-Scenes Expertise from a Fashion Pro on Creating Your Own Look

ASIN: 1894638557
Release Date: 2005-07-01

Book Description

Personal shoppers are hired to shop for gifts, fashions, and other items for busy people.

Some personal shoppers are employed by boutiques or department stores to assist the stores customers. Others are hired to shop for individuals or corporate clients. As a personal shopper your work may range from buying birthday presents to finding the perfect promotional item for a company to give to important clients.

The book offers advice on how to learn the skills needed to get hired as a personal shopper, including identifying what clients want, finding the best products, and arranging for purchases. You will also learn how to get discounts on merchandise and prevent purchasing disasters.

The guide explains how to get hired as a personal shopper by a boutique, department store, or shopping center. You will learn how to find job openings, prepare a resume, and do well in an interview.

The guide also gives step-by-step information on how to start a personal shopping business, including how to get clients and how much to charge. The CD-ROM that comes with the book includes many helpful samples that can be used in a personal shopping business.

Customer Reviews:

Good.......2007-07-04

Lots of good information, well written. Some of the website references provide in back no longer work, or not very helpful.

Excellent!.......2007-04-02

I was so excited when I received the book in the mail and it was very difficult to put down once I started reading it. It's a bible for learning personal shopping. It is very helpful, with excellent resources and guides to start your own business. I have already started my personal shopping service and will attribute the success of my business to the great source of information in this book. It tells you everything you need to know and gives you websites and a wealth of other resources. It was an excellent choice for me.

Excellent, well worth the money.......2005-09-09

This books covers every aspect that you can think of in terms of setting up the business. The sample forms came in very handy.

Best Job to have!.......2004-10-08

This book is incredible - it is packed full of how to information that would have taken me a long time to find elsewhere (and I think I am shrewd when it comes to tracking down information).

The writing is encouraging and upbeat and the CD-ROM that is included with the book has many excellent forms including a sample contract I have used with my clients.

If someone would have told me a few years ago that I could make a living shopping I wouldn't have believed it but this book gave me the insight I needed to do just that - highly recommended!

Excellent resource.......2004-04-12

I had been searching for detailed information on how to become a personal shopper without success, so it was exciting to finally find this book. I love all the expert tips, and am especially grateful for the CD-ROM with all the samples I can use to start my own business.

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