Why use books to research art?
Start with a book search (below) with a few simple words from your search strategy. The library has a collection of books (online and in print) that discuss artists, styles of art, art techniques and materials, periods, cultures in which art was created, and history to that will give you the background on the art that you need AND give you a good example of how to discuss your chosen piece.
Many of these print art books are large format - they will be big! This is to accommodate large, quality images.
Articles from art and art history journals can be VERY filled with difficult language and arguments that might not be helpful to your research.
Library Catalog
On the Shelf at CCBC Libraries
Search our book catalog, to the left, by your artist or subject matter or period or country, in any combination. We have lots of books, both ebook and print, that speak to the works found in local museums.
A Short Guide to Writing about Art by Call Number: N7476 .B37 2015 Catonsville
Gardner's art through the ages : a global historyCall Number: N5300 .G25 2011 CatonsvilleThe most widely read history of art in the English language for more than 80 years.
The story of graphic design : from the invention of writing to the birth of digital design by Call Number: NC998 .C72 2010This work explores the evolution of styles under the pressure of social, cultural, and technological change.
Frank Lloyd Wright : the masterworks by Call Number: NA737.W7 F72 200838 of Wright's architectural designs - each building's evolution from conceptual sketch, plan, or drawings to finished masterwork.
Online from CCBC Libraries
There are SO MANY ebooks - don't be intimidated by their size - they are exactly what you need. Search using the strategy on the first page of this website: artist name, then period or style or country/region of origin (or combination), then by genre and or medium. You probably will only need to read few pages or a chapter - skim until you find them.
The Art of Art History by Publication Date: 2009The first chapter of this book can help you appreciate the value of art as a product of civilization.
An Introduction to Nineteenth-Century Art by Publication Date: 2011Here's an example of a book by a period, rather than a style.
National Gallery CollectionPublication Date: 2009If you found your work of art here, this is a lucky place to start.
A Companion to Renaissance and Baroque Art by Publication Date: 2013If your work was produced in the Renaissance or Baroque art eras or styles, this book will give you lots of background info.
Architecture in the United States by Publication Date: 1998A leading historian examines American architecture in relation to five themes: community, nature, technology, money, and art. Your selected art object might be an architectural element that is now found in a museum.
