In my journey through the world of art, contemporary art was a realm I initially knew little about. The traditional images of oil paintings, statues in galleries, and black-and-white photographs dominated my perception of art. However, as I delved into the subject during my university years, specializing in contemporary art became an accidental yet transformative experience. Artists like Cindy Sherman, Tracey Emin, and Barbara Kruger opened my eyes to a world of creative possibilities with text and image. This newfound perspective not only became a part of my identity but also significantly enhanced my writing.
The Life-Changing Impact:
The profound impact of contemporary art on my life fuels my strong interest in art books for children. I believe in providing young minds with the opportunity to experience the mind-expanding feeling I encountered—a chance to realize that creative boundaries can and should be broken. 'What is Contemporary Art? A Children's Guide,' authored by Jacky and Suzy Klein, aims to offer this unique experience to young readers.
Strengths of the Book:
The book presents a commendable selection of bold and challenging contemporary artworks, including pieces like "Adjustable Wall Bra" by Vito Acconci and "Untitled (bed)" by Rachel Whiteread. The authors fearlessly introduce children to the works of Joseph Beuys and Andy Warhol, showcasing a strong curation that sets the book apart. The inclusion of a comprehensive glossary covering terms like 'assemblage,' 'found media,' and 'urban intervention' adds educational value.
Areas of Frustration:
While acknowledging the book's merits, certain aspects prove somewhat frustrating. The endpapers, featuring "Butterfly Kisses" by Janine Antoni, feel underutilized, lacking experimentation and presenting a sense of redundancy. Additionally, the book's descriptions occasionally delve into 'artspeak,' potentially leading to a barrage of 'why' questions. Sentences like "his chessboard is no longer a battlefield, but a landscape of the imagination" may leave readers, particularly those with a cynical mindset, desiring further clarification and discussion.
Discussion on Descriptions and Glossary:
The book's descriptions, while informative, occasionally contribute to a feeling of confusion. 'Artspeak' elements within the text might benefit from a more straightforward approach to enhance accessibility for a younger audience. The highlighting of glossary terms within the text using internet speak (like this) seems slightly disjointed, potentially warranting a reconsideration in future editions.
In evaluating 'What is Contemporary Art? A Children's Guide,' it becomes evident that the book offers valuable insights into the world of contemporary art for young readers. Its strengths lie in the diverse and challenging selection of artworks and a comprehensive glossary. However, the frustration arises from underutilized elements and occasional complexities in the book's voice. Striking a balance between informative descriptions and a more approachable tone could enhance the overall appeal and accessibility of the book, ensuring a broader reach among its intended audience.