A Whole World of Art

Book Review: A Whole World of Art: A time-travelling trip through a whole world of art by Sarah Phillips

A Whole World of Art is a beautifully illustrated book that seeks to introduce children to the rich visual canon of art from different cultures and time periods. Authored by art history teacher Dr. Sarah Phillips and illustrated by Dion Mehaga Bangun Djayasaputra, this book takes readers on a captivating journey through 27 destinations in art history, circling the globe.

The book opens with the notion that even before the advent of writing, people were telling stories through pictures. However, the story we know about art is often limited and fails to encompass its global nature. A Whole World of Art aims to rectify this by providing a fresh and inclusive view of art history.

Each spread in the book showcases a stunning and detailed illustration that brings to life an artist or artists creating important artwork within their historical context. Accompanying the illustrations are paragraphs of introductory text and small captions that offer fascinating details about the artists, their lives, and the time and place in which they lived. Furthermore, the book provides art project ideas that inspire creativity and engagement with the featured artworks.

The illustrations in A Whole World of Art are simply breathtaking. They are beautifully rendered, capturing the essence and style of each artist's work. The attention to detail in the backgrounds adds an extra layer of depth to the visuals, making them truly immersive. It is evident that Dion Mehaga Bangun Djayasaputra's talent as an artist has brought the stories of art to life in a captivating way.

In terms of content, this book is a treasure trove of information. It provides readers with a wealth of knowledge about the featured artists, their artworks, and the historical context in which they were created. The book goes beyond mere descriptions and delves into the inspirations behind the artworks, offering readers a deeper understanding of the artistic process. Additionally, it highlights where these works of art are currently displayed, which can serve as a starting point for further exploration.

While A Whole World of Art excels in its content and illustrations, one minor issue I found was that the font used throughout the book was slightly small. This may pose a challenge for younger readers or those with visual impairments. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall experience and enjoyment of the book.

In conclusion, A Whole World of Art is a remarkable resource for children who have an interest in both art and history. It successfully introduces readers to diverse art forms from around the world and throughout history. The combination of engaging illustrations, informative text, and art project ideas make this book an invaluable tool for nurturing creativity and expanding cultural knowledge. I wholeheartedly recommend it as a gift for budding artists and history lovers alike. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

ARC Via NetGalley