DIY Books: February 2014
Alternative Movie Posters: Film Art from the Underground
We don’t always have to accept default settings and the book Alternative Movie Posters: Film Art from the Underground proves just that. A collection of over 200 cult and classic film posters from indie designers explores movies from creative and insightful perspectives. No longer are we force-fed airbrushed images of actors and images that have been quickly executed to fulfill status quo. Instead Matthew Chojnacki showcases a plethora of talent through awe-inspired posters, many of which I want to purchase to hang on my walls. My favorites include Michael Weinstein’s White Men Can’t Jump, Godmachine’s Alien, Ghoulish Gary Pullin’s The Big Lebowski, and Bobby O’Herlihy’s Edward Scissorhands.
The layout of the book was thoughtful, with artist info, a large space for the artwork, and brief insights from the designers including influences, favorite films, and back-story about the work.
Whether you are a movie buff or design guru, you’ll enjoy the innovative reflection through poster designs of some of the most influential movies in history. I give this book two thumbs up!
Back to the Cabin: More Inspiration for the Classic American Getaway
It’s cold and rainy outside and I long for cozy cabin in the woods. Although my budget doesn’t allow for such luxury, my daydream devours the pages of Back to the Cabin finding comfort. Back to the Cabin is a wonderful glimpse into some of the most inspiring cabins in North America. From modern to traditional, the collection of cabins is eclectic. This book is sure to furnish your mind with solace, with a parade of small yet dynamic structures. And each cabin reveals a story of origin and adventure. It’s a great read and the perfect escape.
ArtSpeak: A Guide to Contemporary Ideas, Movements, and Buzzwords, 1945 to the Present
ArtSpeak is a must have for museum patrons and art explorers. While my formal art history education stopped at Gardner’s Art through the Ages, ArtSpeak covers contemporary art with detail and efficiency. Set up in an alphabetical format, ArtSpeak becomes a lexicon of all that is modern. Atkins also provides a timeline that puts terminology into context.