Art Unpacked: 50 Works of Art: Uncovered, Explored, Explained

Art Unpacked is a beginner-friendly, visual guidebook that teaches readers to "read, understand, and get the most out of art." It features 50 key artworks from various cultures and media, deconstructed with explanations, diagrams, and close-ups to reveal the elements that make up a masterpiece. The book is designed like an instruction manual, with a simple approach that enables readers to discover the fundamentals of art history, from function to identity. Each image is dissected in a no-nonsense style, with explanatory notes detailing artists' sources of inspiration, associated styles and movements, and other contextual and issue-led information. The resulting book is a dynamic, visual resource that will inspire and spark enjoyment of art in all its forms.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2023
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd

For beginners, the world of art history can be quite intimidating, with its complex rules and technical language that may seem impenetrable. Even for seasoned art enthusiasts, the question of how to approach and think about art remains a perennial riddle. However, there is a solution for both audiences: Art Unpacked. This captivating guidebook is designed to be an engaging and visual primer for the general reader, as well as educators. It is structured like an instruction manual, featuring fifty key artworks from across the globe that are deconstructed with concise explanations, diagrams, and close-ups. By unveiling the elements that make up a masterpiece, Art Unpacked aims to provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of art.

Spanning from ancient times to the present, the artworks analyzed in this book are drawn from diverse cultures and encompass various forms of visual media, including drawing, illustration, photography, prints, and sculpture. Matthew Wilson's straightforward approach, employing established art historical methods, allows readers to delve into the fundamentals of art history. This includes exploring considerations such as function, historical context, iconography, and the artist's experience, as well as broader issues of identity, including feminism, gender, and postcolonialism.

Each image in Art Unpacked is meticulously dissected on the page in a no-nonsense style, accompanied by explanatory notes that provide insights into the artists' sources of inspiration, associated styles and movements, as well as any relevant quotes, related visuals, and other contextual and issue-led information. Additionally, keywords are included for easy cross-referencing, making it a valuable resource for further exploration.

The result of this meticulous approach is a dynamic and visual resource that will inspire and ignite a love for art in all its forms. Whether it's the iconic mask of Tutankhamun, Dorothea Lange's poignant photograph of Migrant Mother, Hokusai's renowned Great Wave, or Kara Walker's thought-provoking installation Gone, each image is analyzed with care and attention to detail. By presenting the artwork in a visually compelling manner, Art Unpacked encourages readers to engage with the art on a deeper level and gain a deeper understanding of its historical, cultural, and social significance.

In conclusion, Art Unpacked is a must-have guidebook for anyone who wants to explore the world of art with greater depth and understanding. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced art enthusiast, this book will provide you with the tools you need to unlock the mysteries of art and appreciate its beauty and power. So, why wait? Unpack your artistic journey today with Art Unpacked!

Weight: 1410g
Dimension: 230 x 274 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780500025673