Those who know Kurt Vonnegut as one of Americas most beloved and influential writers will be surprised and delighted to discover that he was also a gifted graphic artist. This book brings together the finest examples of his funny; strange; and moving drawings in an inexpensive; beautifully produced gift volume for every Vonnegut fan.Kurt Vonneguts daughter Nanette introduces this volume of his never before published drawings with an intimate remembrance of her father. Vonnegut always drew; and many of his novels contain sketches. Breakfast of Champions (1973) included many felt-tip pen drawings; and he had a show in 1983 of his drawings at New Yorks Margo Feiden Gallery; but really got going in the early 1990s when he became acquainted with the screenprinter Joe Petro III; who became his partner in making his colorful drawings available as silkscreens.With a touch of cubism; mixed with a Paul Klee gift for caricature; a Calder-like ability to balance color and line; and more than a touch of sixties psychedelic sensibility; Vonneguts aesthetic is as idiosyncratic and defiant of tradition as his books. While writing came to be more onerous in his later years; making art became his joyful primary activity; and he made drawings up until his death in 2007. This volume; and aplanned touring exhibition of the drawings; will introduce Vonneguts legion of fans to an entirely new side of his irrepressible creative personality.
#2216482 in eBooks 2014-01-01 2014-01-01File Name: B00LZTES5I
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. wonderful advice and encouragement from a master of illustrationBy evelynthis is a lovely little volume from one of my all-time heroes; r.o. blechman; an important illustrator of our times; whose commentary through his art is always sensitive; understated; yet effective. his simple style has been copied by many; yet his technique and voice remain unique. blechman gives advice to younger and just-getting-started illustrators; explaining how his business works; and how he approaches projects. i found the book to be motivating; being a frustrated ex-art director/wannabe illustrator. my biggest challenge is getting started and fearing my own lack of perfection; and blechman addresses these and other relevant challenges faced by many creative people. his tone is always kind and encouraging. this is a fast and enjoyable read; for anyone who is or wants to be more creative. it would also make a great gift.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Celebrating the Chosen Path...and moreBy LKPIn this small-but-choice book; R. O. Blechman conveys his love of his chosen career; and so much more. This intimate book gives one the feeling of a rare chat with an experienced and generous artist; willing to reveal his bag of tricks as well as some favorite quotations gathered over many years. Far beyond a practical guide for emerging illustrators this book is for ANYone who is fascinated by Where Ideas Come From; and the necessary dance that takes place in the artists studio.Encouraging; insightful; humorous; moving -- I felt that I had tripped over a wonderful bounty of private correspondence between a wise mentor and an eager beginner. This is a book to be read; and then re-read; and then re-re-re-read. I plan to keep it on the shelf; next to my favorite-quotation journal. Treat yourself!0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A great gift!By design directorWonderful book.Were so appreciative ofyour offering these collectible books."Dear James" a treasure!
