Books in the Art Essentials series

A concise, reader-friendly illustrated survey of Western art and architecture from prehistory to the present day. Acknowledging how architecture, painting, sculpture and the decorative arts reflect the culture and society of their time, this latest addition to the Art Essentials series invites the reader to experience and appreciate the entirety of Western art from prehistory to today. Focusing on the 'history' in art history, each of the twelve chapters opens with a question to ponder, followed by a summary of the major historical developments of the period, touching on social structure, political organization, migration, race, religious beliefs, scientific advances and customs. An exploration of these themes in the visual arts reveals how architecture, sculpture and painting simultaneously shape, reflect, and document the culture of the time and place they were created. A secondary focus explores the constantly evolving aesthetic preferences that swing between naturalism and abstraction, with each era and style either rebelling against the previous or seeking to improve it. Antecedents and outside influences are also discussed.

An all-encompassing introduction to photography that illuminates the dynamic role and character of this art form.

A reference guide to fifty of the most frequently occurring symbols in global art history

An essential guide to the multifarious and increasingly connected world of global art from 1900 to today.

The author shares a comprehensive history and interpretation of the street art movement, featuring all of the key practitioners in a colorful combination of sharp images and insightful commentary.

An introduction to the impressionist movement, highlighting the great artists, their masterpieces, and impressionism's enduring influence.

Small, smart, essential - a chronological introduction to women artists through 500 years of history, providing a rich understanding of key female artists from the Baroque to today.

Exploring the origins, designs and themes of over one hundred pictures from different periods and places, Susan Woodford artfully expands our appreciation of pictures. Woodford's riveting prose compares different artistic approaches, questions assumptions and introduces us to a wide range of stimulating ideas. Whether looking at a Japanese woodcut, Leonardo's Last Supper or Picasso's Guernica, Looking at Pictures will develop your eye as well as your confidence. This essential guide concludes with a glossary and invaluable suggestions for further reading.