The Make Believe World of Maxfield Parrish and Sue Lewin : Book Review

"The Make-Believe World of Maxfield Parrish and Sue Lewin" by Alma M. Gilbert is a captivating and comprehensive exploration of the lives and artistic journeys of two remarkable artists. Through thorough research and insightful commentary, Gilbert takes readers on a deep dive into the imaginative worlds created by Maxfield Parrish and Sue Lewin.

From the iconic landscapes and dreamlike scenes of Maxfield Parrish to the fantastical and whimsical illustrations of Sue Lewin, this book showcases the unique styles and profound influence of both artists on the art world. Gilbert skillfully provides valuable insights into the personal lives and experiences of Parrish and Lewin, creating a holistic understanding of their contributions.

One notable strength of the book is its inclusion of numerous high-quality reproductions of the artists' works. These vivid illustrations bring the worlds of Parrish and Lewin to life, allowing readers to appreciate the intricate details and vibrant colors that define their art. Accompanied by Gilbert's informative commentary, the visuals enhance the readers' understanding and appreciation of their respective styles.

Gilbert's writing is thorough and well-researched, providing a comprehensive overview of the artistic techniques employed by both artists. Additionally, the book delves into the socio-historical context in which their works were created, deepening the readers' understanding of the impact Parrish and Lewin had on the art world.

"The Make-Believe World of Maxfield Parrish and Sue Lewin" is a must-read for anyone interested in the artistic process and the transformative power of art. Through Gilbert's meticulous research and compelling storytelling, readers are able to fully immerse themselves in the captivating worlds created by Parrish and Lewin. This book celebrates the remarkable talent of these artists and their enduring legacy in the art world.

What are readers saying?

The book "The Make-Believe World of Maxfield Parrish and Sue Lewin" by Alma M. Gilbert has received a variety of responses from readers. Some individuals commended Gilbert for her thorough research and the wealth of information she presented about the lives and artistic accomplishments of Maxfield Parrish and Sue Lewin. They found the book to be an enlightening and comprehensive resource for anyone interested in these artists. Many readers also appreciated the inclusion of numerous color plates and illustrations, as they felt it brought the artwork to life and added to their understanding of the artists' work.

However, there were also readers who felt that the book had a tendency to be overly academic and dry. They criticized Gilbert's writing style for being dense and challenging to engage with. Some readers found it difficult to follow the material and felt that the author's emphasis on technical analysis overshadowed the personal aspects of the artists' stories.

While some readers appreciated the abundance of information provided, others felt overwhelmed by the sheer volume of details. They believed that the book could have benefited from a more concise and focused approach. Additionally, a few readers mentioned that the organization of the book was confusing, as it shifted between different topics and time periods without clear transitions.

In spite of these criticisms, many readers acknowledged Gilbert's passion for the subject matter and her dedication to preserving the legacies of Parrish and Lewin. They considered the book to be a valuable resource for art historians and enthusiasts, as it shed light on lesser-known aspects of the artists' lives and careers.

In conclusion, "The Make-Believe World of Maxfield Parrish and Sue Lewin" by Alma M. Gilbert is a book that provides extensive research and detailed information about these artists. While some readers appreciated its comprehensiveness, others felt that it was too academic and lacked a personal touch. However, many readers recognized the value of the book's content and found it to be a valuable resource for those interested in the art and lives of Maxfield Parrish and Sue Lewin.

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