How To Look at a Painting

Description

Acclaimed art writer Justin Paton takes us on a journey of exploration through the centuries and across the painted world - from the luscious fruit of Italy's Caravaggio to the lonely landscapes of New Zealand's Rita Angus, the dazzling panoramas of America's Lari Pittman and the mysterious 'tombstones' of Japanese artist On Kawara. Whether you're a keen art collector, a serious student or just visit a gallery occasionally, this brilliant exposition of painting in all its forms will open your eyes to things you've never seen before.

Justin Paton is one of New Zealand's foremost art writers and a contributor to many international publications. His books and art catalogues include those on artists Julia Morison, Jeffrey Harris, Ronnie van Hout, Ricky Swallow, Jude Rae, Michael Parekowhai and Laurence Aberhart. He is senior curator at Christchurch Art Gallery. How to Look at a Painting was the winner of the Montana New Zealand Book Award 2006 in the Lifestyle and Contemporary Culture Category.

'A cultural exploration that deserves to become a classic' (The Press) -- 'Paton is a brilliant stylist. The intimate, almost con dential address to the reader is one of the book's strengths' (The Dominion Post) -- 'Nothing gets between Paton and a painting ... a lively and sensual stylist with a knack for making you feel his enthusiasms' (Listener) -- 'If you've ever gone to an exhibition and felt intimidated, underwhelmed or just plain confused -- and haven't we all? -- this is the book for you' (Leaf Salon)