J.R.R. Tolkien: Artist and Illustrator
- Book Review,
by Wayne G. Hammond (Editor)
From School Library Journal
YA?A fascinating glimpse into the life of the writer and artist. Over 200 reproductions of Tolkien's paintings, drawings, and sketches fill this engaging title. Basically arranged chronologically into six sections, the book explores the man's early work; visions, myths, and legends; art for children; The Hobbit; "The Lord of the Rings"; and patterns and devices. In a readable style, Hammond and Scull weave their subject's writing career with his love of art. Tolkien's use of inks, washes, watercolors, and pencil is examined. Many previously unpublished illustrations are included and preliminary sketches show how they developed. Excerpted text shows the art within the context of its completed work.?John Lawson, Fairfax County Public Library, VACopyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Along with maps, Tolkien self-illustrated many of his works, and a large portion of his artwork is included in this volume with comment by the authors. Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
Much has been written about Tolkien's work; Carpenter's splendid biography, Tolkien (1977), reveals fascinating insights into the man's life and books. Interestingly however, until now his art has been mostly ignored; Hammond and Scull reverse this oversight in an informative exploration that includes more than 200 reproductions of the drawings, sketches, and paintings Tolkien made from his early childhood through his final years. In a loosely chronological, well-documented text, the authors discuss Tolkien's early work, the "Father Christmas" letters to his children (recently released with facsimile letters), the images made in connection with The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings cycle (which, unlike his stories, received mixed reviews), and his later fascination with decorative patterns and designs. The open and inviting format and the reproductions of his art make this a Tolkien lover's dream, and the insightful text will quickly capture attention as well. Barbara Elleman
Booklist, ALA
A Tolkien lover's dream.
Review
"A Tolkien lover"s dream."
Review
"A Tolkien lover"s dream."
Book Description
J.R.R. Tolkien (1892-1973) renowned author of THE HOBBIT, THE LORD OF THE RINGS and THE SILMARILLION, was an artist in pictures as well as in words. Though he often remarked that he had no talent for drawing, his art has charmed his readers and has been exhibited to large and appreciative audiences the world over. In fact, his talent was far more than he admitted, and his sense of design was natural and keen. J.R.R. TOLKIEN: ARTIST & ILLUSTRATOR explores Tolkien's art at length, from his childhood paintings and drawings to his final sketches. At its heart are his illustrations for his books, especially his tales of Middle-earth. Also examined are the pictures Tolkien made for his children, his expressive calligraphy, his love of decoration, and his contributions to the typography and design of his books. With 200 reproductions, many in full colour, this lavishly-produced book offers a perfect opportunity for anyone wishing to discover a largely unexplored aspect of J.R.R. Tolkien's character.
From the Publisher
'Tolkien at his relaxed and ingenious best' - The Times
About the Author
J.R.R. Tolkien was born on January 3, 1892. After serving in the First World War, he embarked upon a distinguished career as a professor of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford University. He is the renowned creator of Middle-earth and author of the great modern classic, The Hobbit, the prelude to his epic masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings. Other works by J.R.R. Tolkien include The Silmarillion. J.R.R. Tolkien died in 1973 at the age of 81. One of America's leading Tolkien scholars, Hammond currently resides in Williamstown, Massachusetts with his wife Christina Scull. One of America's leading Tolkien scholars, Scull currrently resides in Williamstown, Massachusetts.
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