Books From University Presses

If you're intrigued by the intersection of aesthetics and fashion craftsmanship, "American Beauty" is a must-read. It's not just a catalogue; it's a journey through the artistry behind dressmaking. Imagine being able to explore an exhibition at your own pace, understanding the creative philosophies of influential American designers. This book takes you there, through a stunning visual narrative that celebrates technical mastery and artistic brilliance in fashion.

As someone intrigued by the mystical allure of ancient art and the sophisticated engineering of bygone civilizations, "Reconstructing God" could offer you a profound dive into Angkor's rich history. Marnie Feneley's meticulous research, intersecting archaeology, art history, and digital technology, resurrects the grandeur of the West Mebon Visnu and its significance in the context of political and hydraulic power. This book promises to refresh your understanding of the iconic ruins and inspire awe for Southeast Asia's cultural achievements.

If you've ever felt out of your depth when faced with art, "How to Enjoy Art" by Ben Street could be your bridge to a newfound appreciation. Street strips down the barriers of art criticism and academic jargon, making the emotional and intellectual pleasure of experiencing art accessible. With a world-spanning scope and timeless perspective, he shows how simple it is to connect deeply with visual creativity, regardless of your background or education in art. This could be the key to unlocking a world where every painting, sculpture, or installation has a personal meaning just for you.

This book could be a great fit for individuals interested in expanding their knowledge on philosophy. Bell provides readers with a critical analysis of Deleuze and Guattari's unique perspective on philosophy, highlighting their belief that philosophy is an art that involves inventing and creating concepts. This book is perfect for philosophy enthusiasts who want to explore unconventional and thought-provoking ideas.

If you're someone who appreciates the blend of personal biography with the evolution of modern art, you'll find "Peggy Guggenheim: The Shock of the Modern" engaging. Prose brings to life a figure who was as complex as she was influential, showcasing how Guggenheim's eye for art and her personal eccentricities carved a permanent space for her in the history of modern art. It's a read that offers not just a study of a person, but a window into the transformative world of modern art through the lens of an extraordinary art patron.

An eye-opening look at collecting and investing in today’s art marketArt today is defined by its relationship to money as never before. Prices have been driven to unprecedented heights, conventional boundaries within the art world have collapsed, and artists think ever more strategically about how to advance their careers. Art is no longer simply made, but packaged, sold, and branded. In Art of the Deal , Noah Horowitz exposes the inner workings of the contemporary art market, explaining how this unique economy came to be, how it works, and where it's headed. In a new postscript, Horowitz reflects on the market’s continued ascent as well as its most urgent challenges.