[audiobook] Body; Dress; and Identity in Ancient Greece by Mireille M. Lee at Arts-Photography

Review

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful. DeMento!By carpsmarshFirst; a confession: I dont like rust. Im not a fan of steam punk or grunge and this deMented world is not my style at all. That said; I LOVE this book! Michael deMeng is a true artist; but there is absolutely nothing artsy foo-foo about him. He takes his art seriously; but not himself. To read this book is to enter his world. Its like going into your brothers wacky basement la-BOR-a-tory where he tells you fascinating stories about the ratty box of Chiclets in this work or how excited he was to discover how to make rusty bottle caps and why theyre so cool. He tells funny stories; drops cultural and historical references (mostly of Mexico) and reveals trade secrets; but most of all he shares his inspiration and enthusiasm. A long time ago I learned that I can truly appreciate things with no need to own them. I can love a necklace without wanting to wear it. Another thing Ive learned over time is that the better you understand something; the more you can appreciate it. Reaction to art can be immediate with no real understanding; but in this case; understanding Michael deMengs inspiration and process has led me to a profound appreciation of something I would never display in my living room. (I wouldnt hang Guernica on my wall; either). Bottom line: this book is a treasure.4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. A Cultural GemBy A RomeroJust as other reviewers; I was very impressed with Mr. Michael Demengs assemblages and his creative artistic techniques. However; I was most impressed with his knowledge; understanding and appreciation of the Mexican culture. Although his interpretations are darker than what Ive done or seen in the past; I certainly appreciate his artistic style and interpretations. It is important to point out that his influences are based on his experiences while traveling in Central and Southeast Mexico; where the influences of direct Mexican native descendants and Roman Catholicism are strongest. Just as in the United States; each region has a different flavor. Having grown in Monterrey; NL; Mexico; I was very familiar with most of the topics he presented; such as "la llorona;" the "Dia de los Muertos;" the "luchador" movies; "Quetzalcoatl;" and especially Frida Kahlo. My only criticism is the use of the word "Ole" in the title; which is really more closely related to the Spanish culture. Mr. Demeng didnt even mention bull fights in the book; where you would most likely hear this term. I wonder if it was his editor whom chose to use it in the title? Regardless; I highly recommend this book.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Great insight into a creative mindBy SylvrIve been a fan and workshop student of Mr DeMengs for a while now and dont know why it took me so long to get this book. I love the textures and effects he gets with basic art supplies and paint. Although there are some really useful tutorials on technique; what I find most interesting is that he talks about his motivations and the stories behind his art pieces. Written in a very conversational manner; his stories are fun and insightful and inspires me to express myself more in my own art.