Dictionary of Art and Artists, the Penguin: Sixth Edition

I am a writer, not an artist, and thoroughly appreciate "The Penguin Dictionary of Art And Artists" by Peter and Linda Murray. Though a dictionary, I am using it as a primer. While I am aware of major movements, schools and the artists, and, of course, the most major of works, there is so much I missed that I am reading now. Getting deeper into Picasso, Dali and Van Gogh is a must, as is learning about Dada (I am glad that never stuck). As I read other materials in my attempt to acquire and bone up in all the arts (music, literature and the visual arts), this is becoming a strong tool for cross-referencing periods in artistic development, especially from a Western hemisphere perspective. Each entry is encyclopedic, not like a dictionary. There are no etymologies or pronunciation help, just definitions. What pleases me most is that I understand what I am reading. Lacking the rich artistic vocabulary is no problem. Everything is explained intelligently, simply but not superficially. I fully recommend "The Penguin Dictionary of Art And Artists" by Peter and Linda Murray. Anthony Trendl editor, HungarianBookstore.com

Excellent reference for art history research, art criticism, or for deciphering someone else's writing about art.Examples of entries: academy, encaustic wax, Lembruck, Suprematism. So there are techniques, movements, institutions, and individual artists... all explained concisely but with essential dates and details. Saves lots of time when you need to refer to some movement or influencing artist but don't want to get caught up in an enormous amount of data. Western art only. (You won't find Buddha, Sumi-e, etc).

As an art education major this book came in handy. It is a great reference for anyone who wants to learn more about an artist as a person and as an artist. It gives short bios on many different artists from different periods through art history. It was well worth the money.