learning to look at paintings

Have you ever gone to a museum or an art gallery and loved an artwork but if someone asked you what you liked about it, you wouldn’t be able to describe it? Or have you ever looked at an artwork and felt a bit stupid because everyone else seems to have thoughts and opinions on it, but you do not really understand what you are seeing?

Then this month’s book recommendation is for you, because do not worry, you are not alone in this. Even the most knowledgeable art experts had to learn about art to understand it. It is not a skill you are born with, it is a skill you learn.

I came across “Learning to Look at Paintings” (the second edition) by Mary Acton due to completing a short course of the same name. The book aims to give you the knowledge and the information that you need to fully understand how paintings are created. This way when you look at them, you can fully appreciate them. The book has eight chapters and each one concerns itself with a specific aspect of a painting, for example Chapter One is on composition, Chapter Two is on space, and so on. Accompanying the text are paintings that help you to better understand what Acton, the author, means and which enable you to practice the art of looking at paintings.

Since reading it my understanding and appreciation for artworks has have increased immensely, and even though the book is about paintings, I will say that the knowledge I have gained through it, has also helped me to understand other art forms better.

Acton’s writing is interesting and easy to understand, and even though it makes a difference to see a painting in person compared to in a book, I would still recommend it as a perfect beginner’s guide. And don’t be shy to read it twice or thrice, it is great to refresh your memory even if you already have a solid understanding of art.

Personally, I look forward to taking this book with me to museums so I can analyze the paintings that are featured in it. More than a guide to looking at paintings, it is also a guide to appreciate paintings. Once you understand the immense skill artists have, there is no other way but to be in awe of their talent.

The soft cover retails for about US $30 while the hardcover is more expensive. Personally, I would recommend the soft cover simply for the option to easily carry it in your bag with you. If you live in a country, where this book is a bit harder to get, here is my secret tip: buy it from another country’s amazon page. I bought mine on the German amazon page and delivered it to me here in Brazil. Even with shipping it was about the same price, arrived a lot faster, and I did not even have to pay our annoying import tax. But if you do have a local book shop that can get the book for you, I, of course, highly recommend that option!

If you have any book recommendations for us or want to let us know what you think of the book of the month, feel free to contact us! Next month we will be back presenting you a new book from the art universe!