The Illustrated Timeline of Art History: A Crash Course in Words & Pictures

The Illustrated Timeline of Art History: A Crash Course in Words & Pictures (Illustrated Timeline) (Paperback) by Carol Strickland Reading this book, I felt that I was careening through a time tunnel of man (and woman's) thinking and feeling responses to the world through visual art, a feeling of "whizzzzing through the world's history of art." That is a good thing, since clearly, the book was meant for browsing, and to present highlights in the history of art from the beginning of time to the present day, a zippy, painless way to scroll through the panoply of art history. At times, the amount of information in this small book (112 pages) can seem overwhelming, but at any point, the reader can stop and gain valuable information and insights from each thumbnail entry, in which the author explains, however briefly in clear, comprehensible English, how and why each entry is important and significant and provides an easily followed sequence and a cultural context in each mini-discussion. Another fine feature is that through her own writing style, the author gives the reader an additional gift: a vocabulary, real language with which to talk about art. This book is a truly effective way to present and introduce art history in a meaningful format. Frances Zak, Ph.D.

Reading this book is like a trip to a great art museum. You see works that you know are important, and you learn not only from the descriptions of these paintings, but also from the other works displayed around them. One of the strengths of this illustrated timeline is that you can see trends developing in the art world, as artists progress from realism to more interpretive styles. The chronological progression also highlights why some artists' innovations were so exciting - how they were so different from what had come before. Another great feature is the inclusion of artistic developments in Asia, Africa, and South America. It is fascinating to see the different approaches diverse groups of people have taken to creating temples and churches, or the different media used for decoration and expression. Ms. Strickland's enthusiasm for and extensive knowledge of her subject comes across in every succinct blurb; whenever I dip in to pursue a topic, I always find myself drawn in to read more. A great reference, and a wonderful book to have on hand in your car or your bag to absorb you in those moments of downtime. I highly recommend this book!