In many different parts of the world modern furniture elements have served as material expressions of power in the post-war era. They were often meant to express an international and in some respects apolitical modern language, but when placed in a sensitive setting or a meaningful architectural context, they were highly capable of negotiating or manipulating ideological messages. The agency of modern furniture was often less overt than that of political slogans or statements, but as the chapters in this book reveal, it had the potential of becoming a persuasive and malleable ally in very diverse politically charged arenas, including embassies, governmental ministries, showrooms, exhibitions, design schools, libraries, museums and even prisons. This collection of chapters examines the consolidating as well as the disrupting force of modern furniture in the global context between 1945 and the mid-1970s. The volume shows that key to understanding this phenomenon is the study of the national as well as transnational systems through which it was launched, promoted and received. While some chapters squarely focus on individual furniture elements as vehicles communicating political and social meaning, others consider the role of furniture within potent sites that demand careful negotiation, whether between governments, cultures, or buyer and seller. In doing so, the book explicitly engages different scholarly fields: design history, history of interior architecture, architectural history, cultural history, diplomatic and political history, postcolonial studies, tourism studies, material culture studies, furniture history, and heritage and preservation studies. Taken together, the narratives and case studies compiled in this volume offer a better understanding of the political agency of post-war modern furniture in its original historical context. At the same time, they will enrich current debates on reuse, relocation or reproduction of some of these elements.

Shanghai, long known as mainland China's most cosmopolitan city, is today a global cultural capital. This book offers the first in-depth examination of contemporary Shanghai-based art and design - from state-sponsored exhibitions to fashionable cultural complexes to cutting edge films and installations. Informed by years of in-situ research, the book looks beyond contemporary art's global hype to reveal the socio-political tensions accompanying Shanghai's transitions from semi-colonial capitalism to Maoist socialism to Communist Party-sponsored capitalism. Case studies reveal how Shanghai's global aesthetic constructs glamorising artifices that mask the conflicts between vying notions of foreign-influenced modernity and anti-colonialist nationalism, as well as the city's repressed socialist past and its consumerist present. -- .

In 1984, photographers Martha Cooper and Henry Chalfant captured the imagination of a generation with Subway Art, a groundbreaking book documenting the work of graffiti writers who illegally painted subway cars in New York City. The 2009 edition of the book is now available in a new, slightly reduced format. Henry Chalfant's images of the trains retain their impact, while Martha Cooper's narrative pictures tell the story. In the introductions, the authors recall how they gained entry to the New York graffiti community in the 1970s and 1980s and describe the techniques that they used to photograph it. Afterwords report how the lives of the original subway artists have unfolded, and chronicle the end of the subway graffiti scene in the late 1980s and its unexpected rebirth as a global art movement. This is an essential book for all fans of graffiti, stunning photography and 1980s-cool.

Lupente showcases five outstanding contemporary artists in an elegant and absorbing package. This volume-the first in our ongoing Flesk Artist Showcase series-features Julia Blattman, a premier visual-development artist working in the animation industry; Stephanie Law, a fine artist who pulls from dreams and reality to illuminate the boundary between those two worlds; Karla Ortiz, a concept and fine artist who is renowned for her personal works and her designs for film; Virginie Ropars, one of the most-revered dollmakers today and an inspiration to sculptors around the world; and Erica Williams, also known as "HookieDuke," who has gained acclaim by mastering a unique, highly intricate style of lines and designs that centers on Nature as its inspiration. Examples of the most highly regarded works by the five are accompanied by biographical essays, interviews, quotes and captions that reveal insights into their creative processes. In addition, Flesk's personal access to each artist has resulted in an insightful and engaging introduction to these talented creators, among the best working today.

Abstract Expressionism was the defining movement in American art during the years following World War II, making New York City the centre of the international art scene. But what the heck did it mean! The drips, the spills, the splashes, the blotches of colour, the wild spontaneous energy signifying what?

ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONISM FOR BEGINNERS will not only help you understand, but, also, appreciate the art of some of the most iconic figures in modern art Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Mark Rothko, Helen Frankenthaler and others. Explore their lives and artistic roots, the heady world of Greenwich Village in the 1940s and 1950s, the influence of jazz, the voices of critics and the enduring legacy of a uniquely inspired group of artists.

In a fine assimilation of abstraction, myth, landscape and conceptualization, her art is threaded with the face, form and guration of the `goddess' in various incarnations of Rini's own design. This book is an attempt to understand and appreciate the dramatis persona, review her creative journey and take the reader through the various stages of her life and work until the present, with its focus on an exceptionally impressive and extensively varied repertoire.

Discover the uniquely dynamic work of acclaimed artist Jock, from his groundbreaking comics art to his stunning posters for the pop culture company Mondo and his evocative concept illustrations for a range of acclaimed films. Mark Simpson, known by his pen name, Jock, is an internationally recognized three-time"New York Times "best-selling artist and Eisner Award nominee. Over the last two decades, Jock has become one of the most distinguished illustrators in comics, with credits that include titles with DC Comics/Vertigo ("The Losers, Batman: The Black Mirror, Green Arrow: Year One"), Marvel ("Savage Wolverine, Daredevil"), and his runaway success, "Wytches"(co-created with Scott Snyder for Image Comics). He is also known for his extensive work with Mondo the renowned pop culture company famous for its iconic poster designs and collectibles including electrifying posters that offer unique interpretations of fan-favorite movies such as "Shaun of the Dead," "The Thing," "Pan s Labyrinth," "The Dark Knight Trilogy," "Halloween," and many more. In the movie world, Jock s concept art has defined the look of major films such as "Dredd," "Ex Machina," and "Star Wars Episode VIII." Made in collaboration with Mondo, "The Art of Jock"delves into the prolific artist s catalog, showcasing not only the best of his sketches and published images but also personal notes from Jock himself that provide insight into the inner workings of his creative process. Featuring commentary from long-time collaborators, including Scott Snyder and Alex Garland, this look into the mind and method of one of the most critically acclaimed illustrators working today is a must-have for fans of comic book and pop culture art, as well as aspiring artists and illustrators. Features two gatefolds, plus excusive vellum and acetate overlays that further illuminate Jock s creative process."

Take care of yourself. How many times a week do we hear or say these words? If we all took the time to care for ourselves, how much stronger will we be? More importantly how much stronger will our communities be? In Take Care of Your Self, Iraqi artist and curator Sundus Abdul Hadi turns a critical and inventive eye on the notion of self-care, rejecting the idea that self-care means buying stuff and recasting it as a collective practice rooted in the liberation struggles of the oppressed. Throughout, Abdul Hadi explores the role of art in fostering healing for those affected by racism, war, and displacement, weaving in the artwork of twenty-seven artists of color from diverse backgrounds to identify the points where these struggles intersect. In centering the voices of those often relegated to the margins of the art world and emphasizing the imperative to create safe spaces for artists of color to explore their complicated reactions to oppression, Abdul Hadi casts self-care as a political act rooted in the impulse toward self-determination, empowerment, and healing that animates the work of artists of color across the world.

This illustrated volume highlights the rich personality of the Armenian painter Rafael Megall (born 1983), his connection with the artistic tradition of his country, and the peculiar language inspired by the story of his people. The book offers a panorama of his production, among others: the famous icons, paintings on wood first showcased at the 57th Venice Biennale; the installation The Artist and His Mother, showcased at the National Gallery of Armenia, one of the most powerful artworks dedicated to the Armenian genocide; the unpublished series of portraits dedicated to Lev Tolstoy.

Let Frodo, Sam, Gandalf, and other beloved inhabitants of Middle-earth guide your tarot practice with this epic tarot deck and guide, inspired by the iconic The Lord of the Rings novels. Join the Fellowship of the Ring with the only official The Lord of the Rings tarot deck! Featuring original artwork inspired by classic tarot iconography, this 78-card deck comprises both major and minor arcana and depicts fan-favorite characters, creatures, and scenes from The Lord of the Rings novels. Packaged in a collectible gift box, it's the perfect gift for The Lord of the Rings fans and tarot enthusiasts alike! 75+ BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED CARDS: Features stunning, exclusive artwork of everyone from heroes like Sam Gamgee and Legolas to sinister antagonists Gollum and Sauron! HELPFUL GUIDE: Learn the basics of tarot with the included bonus guide, with handy explanations behind the meaning of each card as well as a few simple spreads for easy readings. COLLECTIBLE GIFT BOX: The Lord of the Rings Tarot Deck and Guide comes packaged in a handsome, collectible gift box. COMPLETE YOUR THE LORD OF THE RINGS COLLECTION: The Lord of the Rings Tarot Deck and Guide joins The Lord of the Rings: The Definitive Movie Posters and The Lord of the Rings: Hardcover Ruled Journal in Insight Editions' fan-favorite library of The Lord of the Rings books.

The classic game of Loter a drew a lot of inspiration from the ancient practice of Tarot. This deck explores the similarities between these two timeless traditions with a modern twist finally reuniting these long lost primos to help you reconnect with your Latinx magic. One common misconception is that Tarot is a practice used only to predict the future, but this Millennial Loter a Tarot Deck is specifically designed to help you better understand your present and get in touch with your heritage. The only person in charge of your future is you, so the guidebook accompanying this 78-card tarot deck focuses on self-reflection and inspiration for your goals, all done with a sprinkle of Millennial Loter a humour.

First Published in 2005. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

The Concise Dictionary of Popular Culture covers the theories, media forms, fads, celebrities and icons, genres, and terms of popular culture. From Afropop and Anime to Oprah Winfrey and the X-Files, the book provides more than just accessible definitions. Each of the more than 800 entries is cross-referenced with other entries to highlight points of connection, a thematic index allows readers to see common elements between disparate ideas, and more than 70 black and white photos bring entries to life.

This timely follow-up to Conway's highly successful Marine Art of Geoff Hunt (2004) presents the considerable artistic output of Britain's leading marine painter since 2003. This new volume is heavily illustrated with images ranging from large paintings to sketchbook drawings with text written by the artist himself. The new book reflects Hunt's developing career during a time in which he served a five-year term as President of the Royal Society of Marine Artists, worked on large-scale paintings such as the definitive Mary Rose,and also completed numerous outdoor sketches and paintings. The book is divided into six sections: 1. The Sea Painter's World, an introduction to the artist's studio work at Merton Place, London and his plein air work on the River Thames; 2. Home Waters; 3. The Mediterranean; 4. In the Wake of Nelson; 5. North America and 6. The West Indies and Beyond. This concept sets Geoff's work in a broadly geographical context, showcasing the artist's freer plein air style alongside the exhaustively researched maritime history paintings to which he owes his standing as Britain's leading marine artist.

This is the definitive study of US artist Dorothea Tanning (1910-2012), positioning her as one of the most fascinating and significant creative forces to emerge during the 20th century. It provides a framework within which to consider the range and depth of Tanning's work, well beyond the better-known early Surrealist works of the 1940s, and makes connections between her life experiences and thematic preoccupations. Extensively illustrated and featuring unpublished material from interviews which the author conducted with the artist between 2000 and 2009, this book will appeal to the general museum-going public as well as academics, students, curators and collectors.

The most comprehensive book yet on this inspired, inventive chronicler of the African-American experience Alabama-born, Chicago-based Kerry James Marshall is one of the most exciting artists working today. Critically and commercially acclaimed, the painter is known for his representation of the history of African-American identity in Western art. Conversant with a wide typology of styles, subjects, and techniques, from abstraction to realism and comics, Marshall synthesizes different traditions and genres in his work while seeking to counter stereotypical depictions of black people in society. This is the most comprehensive overview available of his remarkable career.

The exhibited works of Kurt Jackson (b.1961) do not necessarily reveal his day-to-day working practice. Behind his finished canvases are hundreds of sketchbooks borne out of his continual routine of making drawings, marks, notes, poems and scribbles. This book, newly available in paperback, examines the importance of the sketchbook to Jackson. For Jackson, sketchbooks are vital to the development and completion of his paintings. Often sketching while a painting evolves, the artist values each medium equally - the pages of his sketchbooks reveal how the hastily executed images can help him to work out what he wants to achieve on canvas, or simply capture a spontaneous image when there is not enough time to paint or draw properly. Illustrating mundane daily events and happenings as well as key moments, journeys and the overlapping ongoing project work, Jackson's sketchbooks are key to understanding his inspirations as an artist. Drawing on a selection of 20 sketchbooks, of differing sizes and a variety of media, this fascinating publication provides a rare insight in to the mind of a highly creative and original artist.

This delightful homage to Pulcinella (or Punch as he is referred to in English) contains over one hundred extraordinary pencil illustrations, some of which are depicted in comic-strip style. Divided into several scenes, it features the oddly surreal and globally recognised character that originated in seventeenth-century comedic theatre and became a fixture in Neapolitan puppetry. Distinguished by a long nose and typically dressed in white with a black mask, Pulcinella is often depicted in various kinds of misadventures and singing about themes of love, hunger, and money. In the typical fashion of author Luigi Serafini, Pulcinellopaedia Seraphiniana is created in a unique language all its own, and is filled with fascinating and mysterious illustrations that require thorough examination and inference to decipher what the artist is intending to portray. Written by Serafini s imaginative coauthor and alter ego C. Petrulo, who represents Pulcinella himself, the book artfully presents the struggles of a rebellious antihero who must come to grips with the difficulties of everyday life. First published in 1984 and since revised by the author, this volume is an exquisite treasure that has intrigued readers for more than thirty years. Designed as a handsome companion volume ready to take its place alongside the bestselling Codex Seraphinianus, the Pulcinellopaedia is akin to a missing chapter or coda to the Codex that no fan of Luigi Serafini s work will want to miss.

A central pillar of Daniel Lie's artistic practice is time - ranging from age-old memories to the beginning of the world, from the life span of a human being to the geological time of the elements. Lie's art explores concepts such as life, death, and decay, as well as biographical relationships and heritage, with an approach that centres around personal memories, family stories, cultural objects, and natural products that survive for a long time and are linked to memories of the past. Taking a lifetime as a comparative measure, the works are inspired by developmental processes and the transition from one state to another. Installations, sculptures, and a combination of different media reveal the performative qualities of the referential objects - time, transience, and presence. Lie turns a spotlight on these three aspects by creating complex installations and giving pride of place to organic elements that grow and age and have life cycles of their own, such as plants and fungi. Engaging in an interdisciplinary exchange with mycologists, archaeologists, and environmental specialists, Lie addresses the fault lines in binary thought patterns such as science and religion, past origins and present existence, life and death, while attempting to subvert them.

An essential sourcebook of prints from a key fashion decade. The 1950s was the decade when an analytical approach to design, with a lightness and freshness, combined with whimsical imagery and idiosyncratic subject matter. Showcasing hundreds of print designs, this book celebrates the heyday of postwar fashion design. From Lucienne Day and Robert Stewart to Maija Isola of Marimekko, the designs and influences of the print icons of the time are all covered. In addition to finished prints, the book contains exclusive illustrations and original artworks. The major themes of the period are explored, including: narrative and novelty; abstraction, exploring the distorted and attenuated forms used in print; artistic licence and the influence of contemporary art on fashion print; and finally kinetic prints that capture the influence of the era’s ‘mobiles, doodles and spasms’. Each short chapter introduction is followed by a range of illustrations with captions to give provenance and relevance, making this a unique sourcebook for contemporary designers and students.