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Art Books

Find in our Art section a diverse range of art books, for every type and level of connoisseur. Delve into the world of fine art, photography, design and architecture to find inspiration and appreciation for each art form. We also stock books on art history, technique and craft!

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Pretentiousness: Why It Matters
New
Dan Fox | Coffee House Press

Pretentiousness: Why It Matters

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$9.90

Dan Fox's "Pretentiousness: Why It Matters" might just shift your perspective on cultural snobbery. If you've ever rolled your eyes at what seems like unnecessary display of artistic one-upmanship, this book reveals a different angle – that pretentiousness drives creativity and cultural evolution. It's a compelling read that might make you appreciate the audacity of the avant-garde.
The How and Why of Chinese Painting
Diana Kan | Van Nostrand Reinhold

The How and Why of Chinese Painting

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$9.90

If you're an art enthusiast eager to explore the serene and complex world of Chinese painting, this book is a treasure trove. It unveils the ancient techniques with clarity, offering a hands-on guide that doesn't just inform but invites you to pick up a brush and immerse in tradition. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a curious beginner, this deep dive into a rich cultural art form can be your next source of inspiration.
Poems to Live By in Troubling Times
Joan Murray | Beacon Press

Poems to Live By in Troubling Times

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 2.97

$10.90

56% off est. retail
If you're feeling the weight of the world's chaos, this collection could be a gentle companion. It brings together voices that understand your fears, hopes, and the need for meaningful action. Consider it a guide through turmoil, with each poem offering a moment of contemplation or a spark for change.
Ocean of Sound: Ambient Sound and Radical Listening in the Age of Communication
David Toop, Michel Faber  | Serpent's Tail

Ocean of Sound: Ambient Sound and Radical Listening in the Age of Communication

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$10.90

David Toop's "Ocean of Sound" is like a time machine for your ears. It offers a rare blend of music history and cultural narrative, whisking you through exotic soundscapes and the minds of influential artists. It's not just a book; it's an expansive auditory experience that transcends genres and decades, perfect for anyone fascinated by the evolution of music and sound.
I Think, Therefore I Draw : Understanding Philosophy Through Cartoons - Thryft
Thomas Cathcart, Daniel Klein  | Penguin Books

I Think, Therefore I Draw: Understanding Philosophy Through Cartoons

$16.90

Goodreads rating: 3.62

$16.90

If you find traditional philosophical texts daunting, "I Think, Therefore I Draw" could be a breath of fresh intellectual air. It's a book that takes heavy, complex ideas and serves them up with wit and relatable cartoons. This isn’t just for those studying philosophy; it's for anyone curious about life's big questions who appreciates humor as a teaching tool.
Living Zen
Michael Paul | Frances Lincoln Publishers Ltd

Living Zen

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.25

$8.90

Embrace a tranquil approach to your daily life with "Living Zen." This isn't simply a guide; it's an invitation to a serene lifestyle. Through stunning visuals and insightful teachings, you'll learn how to apply ancient Zen principles to enhance your home and inner peace. Rediscover beauty in the mundane and cultivate a harmonious environment that echoes your quest for simplicity and mindfulness.
文学符号的审美文化阐释
Zhu Ling | Anhui University Press; 1 (february 1. 2002)

文学符号的审美文化阐释

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$9.90

If you're fascinated by how symbols shape literature across cultures, this book is a gateway to understanding that intricate dance. It's not just a scholarly treatise; it's an exploration of how symbols, from motifs to landmarks, function aesthetically within the vast realm of literature, sometimes shifting and evolving with time. This read would enrich the way you perceive the underlying meanings in literary works.
Writing About the World - Thryft
Susan McLeod | Wadsworth Publishing

Writing About the World

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

Goodreads rating: 3.67

$9.90 $5.90 40% off

88% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by how different spheres of our world intersect through the lens of literature, "Writing About the World" can broaden your horizons. It gathers a variety of texts offering rich insights into science, politics, art, and more, fostering a deeper understanding of human thought and achievement. Whether you're a knowledge seeker or a humanities enthusiast, this anthology could become a well-thumbed friend on your shelf, inviting you to dive into a multicultural conversation.
Chinese Brushwork in Calligraphy and Painting: Its History, Aesthetics, and Techniques
Kwo Da-Wei | Dover Publications

Chinese Brushwork in Calligraphy and Painting: Its History, Aesthetics, and Techniques

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$10.90

If you're entranced by the fluid grace of Chinese art, 'Chinese Brushwork in Calligraphy and Painting' can be a delightful deep dive. It bridges the historical origins and the hands-on techniques that make this art form so enduring and captivating. Kwo Da-Wei, both a scholar and artist, offers insights that are as educational as they are inspiring, whether you're simply admiring or looking to create with authenticity.
Media Ecologies: Materialist Energies in Art and Technoculture
Matthew Fuller | Mit Pr

Media Ecologies: Materialist Energies in Art and Technoculture

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.33

$11.90

If you're intrigued by the interplay between technology, art, and society, "Media Ecologies" is a treat. Matthew Fuller gives you a textured insight into how media isn't just a tool but part of a larger cultural organism. Reading this, you'll dive into varied media forms and emerge with a fresh perspective on our technoculture web.
Audio Culture: Readings in Modern Music
Daniel Warner, Christoph Cox  | Continuum

Audio Culture: Readings in Modern Music

$10.90

Goodreads rating: 4.22

$10.90

If you're curious about how music touches our lives beyond just being a playlist staple, "Audio Culture" is a treasure trove. Imagine sitting in on conversations with some of the most innovative minds in modern music. This book doesn't just recount history; it dives into the avant-garde, the thoughts that shape what we hear and how we hear it. Whether you're a musician, a student of musicology, or simply interested in the cultural impact of music, this collection will tune your mind to new frequencies.
Symmetry - Princeton Science Library
Hermann Weyl | Princeton University Press

Symmetry - Princeton Science Library

$12.90

Goodreads rating: 3.84

$12.90

If you're drawn to the interconnectedness of patterns and proportions across different fields, "Symmetry" might just resonate with you. Hermann Weyl takes you through an enlightening journey that reveals symmetry's omnipresence, from its artistic beauty to its scientific significance. It's not just a textbook but a cross-disciplinary excursion that will appeal to anyone fascinated by the order and beauty found in the world.
The Dramatic Writer's Companion: Tools to Develop Characters, Cause Scenes, and Build Stories - Chicago Guides to Writing, Editing, and Publishing
New
Will Dunne | University Of Chicago Press

The Dramatic Writer's Companion: Tools to Develop Characters, Cause Scenes, and Build Stories - Chicago Guides to Writing, Editing, and Publishing

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.29

$8.90

"The Dramatic Writer's Companion" isn't just another "how-to-write" manual. It’s a deep dive into the craft of developing compelling characters and stories for the stage and screen. With the backdrop of Will Dunne's own storied success, the hands-on exercises pull from tested workshops, promising to evolve your writing process in tangible, creative ways. If you’re serious about playwriting or screenwriting, this could be the mentor-in-a-book you've been seeking.
The Believer, Issue 112
Vendela Vida, Heidi Julavits, Andrew Leland  | Believer Magazine

The Believer, Issue 112

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.88

$8.90

59% off est. retail
If you're someone who relishes a rich mix of culture, art, and deep thought free from pretension, The Believer offers a colorful palette for your taste. Imagine flipping through pages that blend literature, interviews, and poetry with an informal grace that intrigues as much as it enlightens. Whether exploring essays on unusual subjects or uncovering new poetic voices, this issue promises to be a treat for those with a curious and open mind.
Animation - Process, Cognition and Actuality - Thryft
Dan Torre | Bloomsbury Academic

Animation - Process, Cognition and Actuality

$42.90 $16.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 4.67

$42.90 $16.90 61% off

71% off est. retail
This book is a great read for anyone interested in the theory and philosophy behind the art of animation. Dr. Dan Torre offers a unique perspective that allows readers to contemplate animation in new ways, making it an interesting read for both animators and animation enthusiasts. The book explores a wide range of animated examples, from early optical devices to contemporary urban design and installations, and presents original theories such as a process-philosophy based theory of animation and a cognitive theory of animation. If you're interested in gaining a deeper understanding of animation and its place in our world, this book is for you.
Chinese Geomancy: A Layman's Guide to Feng Shui - Thryft
Evelyn Lip | Times Books International

Chinese Geomancy: A Layman's Guide to Feng Shui

$27.63 $6.90 75% off

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$27.63 $6.90 75% off

Dip your toes into the world of Feng Shui with this approachable guide. Evelyn Lip simplifies centuries-old Chinese wisdom, making it accessible for beginners. Whether you're looking to harmonize your home or just curious about Eastern philosophies, this book could be your first step into a more balanced lifestyle.
Word
J.J. Bola | African Renaissance

Word

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

Goodreads rating: 4.47

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

If you're drawn to poetry that delves deep into various aspects of human experience—from intimate emotions to grand socio-political themes—JJ Bola's Word could speak to you. Its strength lies in its versatility, inviting you to reflect on both the intricacies of personal relationships and wider cultural narratives. This collection promises a rich tapestry of language that is both an exploration and a celebration of life's diverse facets.
Hyperlinkage
Tse Hao Guang | Math Paper Press

Hyperlinkage

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

Goodreads rating: 3.43

$8.90 $6.90 22% off

"hyperlinkage" could resonate with you if you appreciate poetry that isn't just about the words, but also about the connections they forge. Tse Hao Guang crafts each poem to act as a bridge to the next, creating a network of thought that challenges yet embraces the digital era's notion of interconnectedness. It's like a reflective walk through an ever-evolving landscape of ideas, where the end circles back, promising a continuity that’s as comforting as it is thought-provoking.
Healing Design : Practical Feng Shui for Healthy and Gracious Living - Thryft
Hope Karan Gerecht | Journey Editions

Healing Design : Practical Feng Shui for Healthy and Gracious Living

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 2.5

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

90% off est. retail
Recommendation: - Discover the secrets of feng shui and learn how to create a harmonious and balanced living environment. This book provides practical tips and techniques to improve the energy flow in your home or office, bringing health and grace to your everyday life. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, Healing Design is a must-read for anyone seeking to create a positive and vibrant space. So, why wait? Start transforming your surroundings and unlock the potential for a happier and healthier life today!
Music Composition in the 21st Century: A Practical Guide for the New Common Practice
Robert Carl | Bloomsbury Academic

Music Composition in the 21st Century: A Practical Guide for the New Common Practice

$16.90

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$16.90

45% off est. retail
If you're a composer or a student of music, "Music Composition in the 21st Century" could be a revelation for you. It provides a pathway through the vibrant landscape of today's music scene, with practical advice on incorporating various styles and technologies into your work. This book can be your compass in the quest for originality and fluency in the new common practice of music composition.
Times Dictionary of Chinese Symbols: An Essential Guide to the Hidden Symbols in Chinese Art, Customs and Beliefs
Wolfram Eberhard

Times Dictionary of Chinese Symbols: An Essential Guide to the Hidden Symbols in Chinese Art, Customs and Beliefs

$48.90

Goodreads rating: 0.0

$48.90

If you're enthralled by the depths of Chinese art and traditions, this dictionary will serve as a treasure map, guiding you through the rich tapestry of symbols woven into the very fabric of China's heritage. It's a key to understanding the unspoken language that permeates everything from historical artifacts to modern festivities.
Collected Poems, 1947-1985 - Penguin Twentieth-Century Classics
New
Allen Ginsberg | Penguin

Collected Poems, 1947-1985 - Penguin Twentieth-Century Classics

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.59

$8.90

If you're drawn to the beat generation's raw, unfiltered voice, Allen Ginsberg's "Collected Poems, 1947-1985" is like a time capsule of cultural revolution. Reading this collection is akin to witnessing the evolution of a poet who channels the zeitgeist of several decades into a potent, personal art form. It's an immersive experience—both a historical document and a testament to Ginsberg's enduring literary prowess.
The Immortal Comedy: The Comic Phenomenon in Art, Literature, and Life
Sold out
Ágnes Heller | Lexington Books

The Immortal Comedy: The Comic Phenomenon in Art, Literature, and Life

$19.90

Goodreads rating: 3.5

$19.90

63% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by how comedy weaves into the fabric of art, literature, and our daily existence, Agnes Heller's "The Immortal Comedy" could be a treasure for you. Heller combines a deep scholarly insight with a relatable conversational style that unpacks the comic phenomenon from Aristotle to the modern day. It might change not just how you view a comedic piece of work but also the role of laughter in the grand scheme of things.
Optical Media: Berlin Lectures 1999
Sold out
Friedrich Kittler, Anthony Enns  | Polity

Optical Media: Berlin Lectures 1999

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$10.90 $8.90 18% off

74% off est. retail
Dive into "Optical Media" if you're intrigued by how cultural perception is shaped by technology. Friedrich Kittler crafts a meticulous journey through the history of visual media, emphasizing pivotal shifts that define our current audiovisual landscape. His insights into the intertwined paths of art, technology, and media are enlightening for anyone interested in understanding the forces that have sculpted our contemporary visual culture.
Time, Duration and Change in Contemporary Art: Beyond the Clock
Sold out
Kate Bretkelly-Chalmers | Intellect Ltd

Time, Duration and Change in Contemporary Art: Beyond the Clock

$38.90 $31.90 18% off

Goodreads rating: 5.0

$38.90 $31.90 18% off

75% off est. retail
This isn't just a book; it's a cerebral journey through the fluidity of time as expressed in contemporary art. If you've ever found yourself pondering the unseen dance of moments or been captivated by the confluence of past, present, and future in artistic expressions, this study acts as a time machine for the mind. It's for those who appreciate art that challenges the tick-tock of everyday existence and reveals the rich tapestry of temporality. Imagine unraveling time's fabric with each page you turn.
Thought in the Act: Passages in the Ecology of Experience
Sold out
Erin Manning, Brian Massumi  | Univ Of Minnesota Press

Thought in the Act: Passages in the Ecology of Experience

$15.90 $11.90 25% off

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$15.90 $11.90 25% off

72% off est. retail
"Thought in the Act" speaks to those fascinated by the entanglement of creative process and contemplative thought. It's an immersive dive for readers who appreciate philosophy not as abstract, but as something enacted and embodied, inviting them to explore the synergy between thinking and creating. The authors’ analysis of various artists and practices will resonate deeply with anyone interested in the profound connectivity between art and life, offering an intellectual journey that champions an interplay of disciplines.
Feng Shui for Everybody - Thryft
Sold out
Victor L. Dy | Renaissance Research Institute For Asian Studies

Feng Shui for Everybody

$8.26

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$8.26

The Author takes the reader on a guided Feng Shui Tour, describing as he goes along, the essence of a Feng Shui assessment. The reader will learn to understand the principles behind the Feng Shui violations and how to cure each case.- Almost 200 cases of violations with beautiful illustrations- A cut-out of Hexagram-Bagua for curing external Feng Shui violations- A treasure for everybody, particularly architects, interior designers and homeowners. - Know how to detect the genuine geomancer from the spurious.An expose of the modi operandi of pseudo and lucky charm geomancers.- Know the answers to the 22 most frequently asked questions about Feng Shui in the final chapter.This book serves as a primer for the world's first Feng Shui correspondence course.
The Architectural Uncanny : Essays in the Modern Unhomely - Thryft
Sold out
Anthony Vidler | The Mit Press

The Architectural Uncanny : Essays in the Modern Unhomely

$10.63

Goodreads rating: 4.0

$10.63

84% off est. retail
This book is a must-read for architecture enthusiasts who are intrigued by the unconventional and uncanny elements in modern buildings. Through a captivating blend of history and theory, Anthony Vidler delves into the complex relationship between architecture, social thought, and politics. With a keen focus on renowned architects and their thought-provoking projects, Vidler unravels the disconcerting aspects of today's architecture, offering profound insights into themes of estrangement, alienation, and homelessness. Prepare to have your perspective challenged and expanded as you navigate the enigmatic world of contemporary design.
Perfect. - The Encyclopedia Of Perfection - Thryft
Sold out
Tom Moynihan | Adams Media

Perfect. - The Encyclopedia Of Perfection

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

Goodreads rating: 3.71

$7.90 $3.90 51% off

82% off est. retail
Recommendation: If you are curious about the concept of perfection and want to understand what it means in various contexts, this book is for you. The book provides an insight into what qualifies as perfection in various aspects of life, making it an interesting read for anyone looking to learn more about the concept.

Embrace the World of Art

Art books capture the essence of creativity. Here at Thryft, we house an array of Art books that span across different forms, movements, styles and cultures. Our collection also dives deep into the history of art, providing insights and inspiration.