Author(s): Sally Blundell

Reference and Anthology

In this attractive, intelligent and lively book well-known New Zealand writers - poets, novelists, even an economist - write about their favourite local artist. While much art history and criticism is mired in jargon, dullness or obscurity, this book offers fresh, articulate, personal responses that also deepen our perceptions of some major artists. Among the contributions are a graphic essay (Dylan Horrocks on Barry Linton) and two poems (Jenny Bornholdt on Mary Macfarlane and Anne Kennedy on John Reynolds); other essays include Fiona Farrell on Gavin Bishop, C. K. Stead on Colin McCahon, Chris Knox on James Robinson, Miranda Harcourt and Stuart McKenzie on Ronnie van Hout, Brian Easton on Janice Gill, Gregory O'Brien on John Drawbridge and Ian Wedde on Bill Hammond. Each essay is illustrated by full colour images chosen by the writer. A delight to look at, a pleasure to read, and the ideal gift.