Recommended Books: Figurative Sculpture and Anatomy

Human Anatomy for Artists

Arguable the definitive guide to anatomy as it pertains to the art of the human form.  Almost all of the photos and information centers on the male form, but the layout is excellent and the photography from different angles of the same muscle structure is great.  My most well worn studio book.

Modeling and Sculpting The Human Figure

An invaluable guide by an old Italian Master. Starts with a basic discussion of anatomy, and proceeds with recommended exercises, armature building techniques, and plaster casting.   more.

Modeling and Sculpting Animals

The 'sequel' to Modeling and Sculpting The Human Figure, Lanteri delves into the same processes as applied to animal anatomy.  The two texts originally were one, and many additional sculpting and casting techniques are discussed further.

The Human Figure

A pictorial reference in the form of charcoal and pencil sketches to human anatomy and gesture.  The simplification of line and form in these drawings is enormously helpful when tackling the beginning stages of sculpting the human figure.

The Nude Figure

One of my favorite photographic reference guide for figurative sculptures.  A wide range of poses and models, representing a more 'realistic' guide to the human form.

19th-Century Sculpture

Janson's Classic Art History European reference guide.   A bit narrow in its focus, but a beautiful book which continues to provide ideas and inspiration.

Modeling the Head in Clay

A must have for anyone attempting the portrait bust, and all around, a useful reference for facial gesture.  Great step-by-step photo references from a master of the human form.

 

Recommended Books: Technical Reference

 

The Potter's Dictionary of Materials and Techniques

A superb reference guide to clay and ceramics processes.   A thorough publication especially helpful for tackling terminology and answering everything from basic to detailed questions about ceramics.

Ceramic technology for potters and sculptors

Yvonne Hutchinson Cuff / Paperback / Published 1996.  I am currently in the process of reading through this book, but so far, I have managed to inaugurate the pages with many clay-covered finger prints.  A great studio companion for potters and sculptors alike.

 

Handmade Tiles: Designing, Making, and Decorating

An introductory guide to many many different approaches to tile making, relief carving, mold making, and finishing.  An excellent book for interested beginners and advanced students.

Sawdust Firing

Good book to get started on pitfiring, sawdust firing, and smoked finishes.

Recommended Books: Further Reading

Pilgrim At Tinker Creek

One of the greatest writers I have ever had the privilege to run across...I am continually awed by her skills with the written word.  This particular work focuses on her thoughts and experiences as she wanders through the natural world.

One Hundred Years of Solitude

Gabriel Garcia Marquez is another of my absolute favorites.  I could read this book 100 times and still feel as though I were unfolding a mystery in every page.  Pure visual poetry.

Amphigorey, Amphigorey Too, Amphigorey Also,

A twisted little bit of storytelling and dark humor through black and white illustration.  I have a definite admiration of Edward Gorey's style and wit which I often see reflected in my own tile and relief work.

Art and Fear: Observations On the Perils (And Rewards) of Artmaking

I have heard more recommendations for this book than any other in my experience as an artist.  The title pretty much covers the basic premise of the book, and I have found it useful on several occasions.

Mirror Images: Women, Surrealism, and Self-Representation

An interesting book with critical essays written about the aforementioned subject.

Women Artists and the Surrealist Movement

Publication dealing primarily with the evolution of the surrealist movement through the eyes of women. Includes work of Frida Kahlo, Dora Maar, Leonora Carrington,.Leonor Fini, Kay Sage, and their place in the history of surrealism.