Review by Choice Review
The argument that the medium of ceramics should be in the same world of fine arts as inhabited by painting and sculpture has been going on for decades. This book charges into the fray with direct comparative analyses of formal qualities and meanings of works of art by major artists in the three fields mostly from the latter half of the 20th century, illuminated by excellent photographs. The argument is clinched by text and illustrations from the exhibition at Yale (September 2015-January 2016) for which this is the catalogue. Two forewords give the genesis of the exhibition, which draws on Yale's collection of paintings and sculptures and the magnificent private ceramics collection of Linda Leonard Schlenger. In an introduction and three essays, Miller defines how the works of art relate to each other. In a concluding essay Gordon (curator, American decorative arts, Yale Univ. Art Gallery) anoints George E. Ohr, a late-19th and early-20th century ceramist, as the patron saint of contemporary ceramics. Twelve selected artists' biographies and an exhibition checklist end this important (and to this reviewer's knowledge) first such head-to-head study of the place of ceramic art in the fine arts world. A must publication recommended for all levels. Summing Up: Essential. All readership levels. --Dale K. Haworth, Carleton College
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
