Abstract

Involves itself with man's cultural, intellectual, social and physical environment.
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Reviews (19)

Better than a trip to the museum!
I never know what I'm going to find when I open an issue of Smithsonian, but I always find something intriguing that I would never have learned about in any other way. The depth and breadth of the articles never ceases to astonish me. In what other single magazine could you read about the art of Maxfield Parrish, the history of the calendar, the 13 smallest countries in the world, and see photos of exotic species of chickens? The writing is always intelligent, often witty, and inevitably a pleasure.

Great Reading
Smithsonian is a fantastic magazine. The articles are always interesting and well written. Even on a topic that I think I am not interested in, I find if I start reading, I will be completly enthralled by the end of the article. It is the perfect thing to take on the plane or on vacation, and you'll learn about topics from art, architecture, history, to endagered species, wildlife habitats and popular culture, plus everthing in between. The perfect gift.

The most fulfilling magazine to read cover to cover
Even if you can only afford the time to read a sporadic issue here or there, this is by far the most gratifying magazine to read.

This is more like an encyclopedia of current events affecting out world than a magazine. The gamut of topics is amazing and can in one article cover a topic with comprehensive, excellent writing. The consistency of quality makes it a number once choice.

It continues to carry the most intriguing articles I have ever read. If you're thinking about a subscription - pick one up at a newstand and revel in the pages of information. Chances are good you'll be so impressed you won't hesitate to indulge in a subscription to satisfy your appetite for more.

Look forward to every issue
I started receiving Smithsonian magazine a few months ago. It was the best choice I could have made in selecting a magazine. I find myself reading the articles out loud to my husband. I want to read every article because I am afraid I am going to miss something. I am saving them so my young son can enjoy them when he is older.

We are impressed with every issue
Every issue we get, we say the same thing: "WOW! This is the best issue ever!! Just look at this article, and this one...."

We took a visit to the Smithsonian in Washington, hosting some guests from Germany who had the treasures of the mineral exhibit on their "must see first time to the US" list of attractions. We were a bit nonplussed by this--we didn't know that foreigners would be interested in the Smithsonian Museum. We spent an entire day, seeing just a small percentage of the national treasures in this montsrous museum complex. While we were shopping in one of the gift shops, we were offered a membership. We signed up to support the Smithsonian and to get this magazine.

Recently, there was an article on Cambodia's huge temple complex Ankhor Wat (filmed in "Lara Croft"), an article on sled dogs and an article on the Kansas-Nebraska Act, a key law that added to the tinder sparking the Civil War. And best of all, an article on Diane Arbus, the photographer who was famous for her portraits of seemingly ordinary people, somehow caught with an eye to freakishness or evil. Though I've been familiar with Arbus' work for year, this article had so much new information.

If you like magazines about nature, culture and history, this is the one to get. We get excited by every issue. ... Read more

Abstract

Features articles on major achievements & events throughout the art world, particularly in painting, sculpture, photography and prints.
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Reviews (3)

Beautiful and glossy, but...
Art in America is of limited use for practicing professional artists. The magazine lives in the world of Big Art Shows, pompous curators, name brand artists and writers trying to determine the Next Big Thing.

It's beautiful, no doubt about it. The August guide of galleries (cover price $$$) is a great resource for national gallery mailing addresses and contact info. If you are an artist trying to find outlets for your work, practical suggestions and solutions for finding gallery contacts, try the magazine Art Calendar.

I went to a name brand art school, am still a practicing artist, and a self-supporting one. I have spent many years purging the "art speak" from my language. Magazines such as Art in America usually alienate the novices and those not steeped in art culture. I find it more often obscures rather than illuminates. Cryptic articles full of artistic navel contemplation (the writer's embellishments, not usually the artist) doesn't say much about the art or the artist, but it says a lot about the aspirations of the art reviewer, the curator and the board of directors at a particular museum.

Do I sound bitter? I'm not. I'm just tired of people who are interested in art feeling like they don't belong, feeling intimidated by the thought of going to an opening or asking an artist a question about their work because they have been made to feel "ignorant". What purpose does that serve? The curious should ask questions about art and the artists, how else are they going to learn? Making it an exclusive club does not serve a purpose.

informative & interesting
A subscription to Art in America is a good way to keep up with what's going on in the "art scene", mostly in the USA, but there are quite a few articles and reports that deal with art worldwide. As an example, the February 2002 issue has "Journey to China", showing the extraordinary work of Ah Xian, a Beijing-born artist who has lived in Australia since 1990. His porcelain portrait busts are inspired and unique, and this one article alone is worth buying the issue for.

The 2/2002 issue also has "Wayne's World", about California's wonderful Wayne Thiebaud, "Transition Yoko", on Ono's N.Y. exhibit (I like that "Half-A-Room" piece !), "Who is Cleopatra ?", with some fascinating sculpture from 50-30 B.C. on exhibit at the Field Museum in Chicago, and 2 other articles, rounding out a diverse mix covering many interests.

Other sections are "Review of Books", "Issues and Commentary", the newsy "Artworld", reviews of exhibits, etc., and of course, there are the color ads for the latest art shows, mostly from the New York galleries, which are always interesting.
The paper and color reproduction are of good quality, and one of the issues is an annual guide to museums, galleries, and artists, which is always useful for artist and collector alike.
When compared to ARTnews, it's closest competitor, perhaps one could say it has a little less gloss, and a bit more substance.

Art in America
Just about the best art magazine available now, even the advertisements are interesting. Global view of what is happening in the art scene today. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Great Mag...But Amazon is charging $22 more than sub cost
I found a how magazine and it is charging $29.99 for a subscription. I came across this same problem on another magazine that I was going to subscribe from Amazon...but the magazine itself was charging far less. I wrote Amazon about the price change (and they claim they correct prices in a few weeks) months later that magazine cost has not changed...

Not a good sign for Amazon...for magazine subsrciptions. I love Amazon...but why are they so out of whack with magazine costs?

As a subscriber for over 3 years...
... I highly recommend this magazine to anyone interested or immersed in the graphic design industry. I have kept every single issue and frequently refer to them for ideas, reference, or to simply get those creative juices flowing. HOW's biggest asset is their dedication to helping the reader understand the business side of the industry and the all important client relationship. HOW does not exclude anyone in that they address the different issues agencies and freelancers face when conducting business.

HOW is a good buy and a great resource
HOW is very practically-oriented, not a lot of "look at us, we're graphic designers" [junk] you see in other graphic design magazines. Self-importance is out. Information-importance is in. Each issue has loads of sage advice, and it's all very understandable to all designers, novice to Madison Aveenue.

Great magazine for all graphic designers.

Money Well Spent
This magazine really fills the voids that design school leaves behind. I have developed some serious guts in fighting for what I am worth due to this publication. When you are a new designer, you get taken advantage of frequently. College did not prepare me to stand up for myself in this competitive market, and this magazine not only keeps you up-to-date with the latest in the design realm, but also serves as a gutsy, motivational read as well. This is a must have subscription for budding designers. What a relief to read a killer design publication from the midwest!

A Must Have...
I believe that this magazine is a must have for any designer. Especially those that are new to the field. I am a student and I read this magazine from cover to cover and feel that it covers all aspects of the business well. It is written so that even the beginner can understand all of the aspects and use the ideas in their everyday work/projects. I think that this magazine is one of the best references for graphic design on the market that I have found. ... Read more

Abstract

Articles with instruction and advice on painting technique, how to exhibit and sell artwork.
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Reviews (4)

a must for students and teachers of all levels
The Artist's Magazine is full of advice and ideas for anyone studying or teaching art; from its first monthly department, "Dialogue", which is a question and answer column from readers, to the final page "Master Class", which gives the history and analysis of a famous work, you will get articles that cover many techniques and media, as well as guidelines on the business side of art.

Taking the March 2003 issue as an example, the cover story is on the exquisite gouache paintings of Daniel K. Tennant. One of the four works pictured is broken down and shown in six stages, from the initial layout to the final delicate details.
Artist Joseph Frassetta explains his technique in "Reining it In", and tells us what materials and tools he uses to create his realistic portraiture and animal studies.
There is another article on landscape painting through the four seasons, and others on doing a self-portrait, mixing the use of colored pencils, and so much more. Some favorite monthly articles are "Art Clinic" and "Technical Q&A", which always have useful tips.

The back of the magazine has classified listings of art related opportunities, workshops, etc., and even the ads can be an informative resource.
The Artist's Magazine also sponsors a yearly competition, with many categories, including a student/beginner division.
The magazine has medium weight paper, good color reproduction, and teachers and students, especially of a traditional style of art, will find much to enjoy and learn in every issue.

Indispensable Source of Information and Inspiration
I've enjoyed this magazine for years and have the habit of keeping all issues because they never fail to possess something of proven value. It's top-notch for getting great ideas and quality advise on anything pertaining to art. Like any other magazine, it gives you a dose of advertising, but it's not incredible over done.

Subjects range from portrait/self-portrait to landscape, still life and abstract design. But it doesn't end there; this magazine details style diversities from all across the board. Offering examples for improving techniques in various mediums, but generally pencil, watercolor, pastel, oil and acrylic. And no matter what the area or medium you specialize in, you'll be able to pick up handy tips in every issue. Sections of interest regularly highlight a specific tool or technique idea. Inform readers on market issues and other important business concerns. As well as provide interesting articles on artists and a little news and awareness of art related events. Plus will occasionally dip into art history and perform art contests.

This magazine will energize your motivations with impressive art and will help you improve on your own with short & simple instructions. Truly is thee magazine to have, for an artist at any skill level. [review author: tilley_traveler]

The Best Artist's Magazine out there!
This is the best Artist's magazine being published. I have had subscriptions to them all at one time or another. I have been a subscriber for at least ten years now. It's the only magazine that I can actually use in a class on how to: My students learn from the articles,and so do I! K.J. Murray

Instructional
I have purchased these magazines before, and found them instructional, eye-apealing, and usually read them cover to cover. Step-by-step instructions, and plenty of color pictures. Each issue has something new. Definitely worth the money. I am a self-taught artist, and have found insightful ways of practicing through this mag. It covers a range of mediums and methods, and normally has a special section of artwork from various artists. A valuable tool for any artist:) ... Read more

Abstract

English magazine of the arts featuring painting, photography, sculpture, architecture and exhibition reviews.
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Reviews (1)

Talking WITH artists vs. about artists
My favorite of the art magazines because the interviews outweigh the pontifications by art critics. Artists share ideas and vision which are almost always more accessible than critics trying to make sense of their work. Contemporary art from the source. Bravo! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Best of the watercolor quarterlies
The quarterly magazine "Watercolor Magic" features well-known artists such as George Gibson, Carolyn Lord, Stephen Quiller, and Janet Fish, who share their inspiration and techniques with the readers. There's always something in each issue for both beginning and advanced watercolorists. The magazine is packed with color photographs--even the advertisements are interesting. I only wish it were published more than four times a year.

One of my favorite features is the "Swipe File" where readers share tips and techniques, such as how to apply frisket with a feather, transforming plastic Christmas light separators into brush holders, and constructing a mini-sketch kit.

Here are examples of some of the features, taken from tenth anniversary February, 2003 issue:

"Ten Tales of Passage: Past and Future Perfect" - Ten artists talk about their careers: how they started, where they're going, how to connect with people who might enjoy their art. Paintings from each artist illustrate this article.

"Freedom of Choice: The Best Paintings of 2002" - artists honored by various watercolor societies, along with photos of the winning pictures

"Ten Tips for Mixing Media" - artist Stephen Quiller discusses the use of acrylics, casein, gouache, etc. in watercolor paintings.

"Painting Snow Scenes" - step-by-step instructions for painting a winter landscape.

"Watercolor Magic" also lists upcoming shows and museum exhibits across the United States. ... Read more

Abstract

Combined issue for Jun, Jul, Aug.Fully illustrated magazine devoted to all aspects of the fine arts. Reports on the art, personalities, issues, trends and events that shape the international art world. Predominantly edited for art collectors, dealers,
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Reviews (1)

keeping up with the trends
As an artist, I need to be "in the know" a bit, and ARTnews is one of the 3 magazines I subscribe to for this purpose.
I use it primarily for: # 1, the ads, which are mostly gallery ads, and let me know what is showing, and where. # 2, the exhibit reviews (N.Y., National, International), for the same reason as # 1, and the classifieds, which sometimes give a competition notice not available elsewhere.

Regular departments include: "ARTtalk", which is the lighter side of the news, and "National/International News", which has more of a business slant, obituaries, etc.

Each issue has a "theme". The November 2001 for instance, has fashion design, with 3 articles on art/fashion, and one on Mary McFadden's sculpture collection. It also has "The New Climate", about art after 9/11, from a response by several artists to the loss of a 100 million $ in art.
Also included is a large section on new art books, and the obligatory "avante garde" piece. There are too many "shock art" articles in this magazine for my taste, therefore 4 instead of 5 stars, but I guess some people still consider this a "trend".

Good quality paper, excellent color reproduction, and the wide range of art represented make this a useful magazine for both artist and collector. ... Read more

Abstract

Special features on art, motion pictures and actors, motion picture reviews, book reviews and exhibition reviews with an international scope.
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Abstract

Contains articles on how artists can improve their skills and how collectors can improve their knowledge of fine art. Contains balanced coverage of the art world.
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Reviews (3)

nice magazine
I've received three issues in the mail now, I wanted to wait a few issues before giving a review so that I could compare them.

I had assumed these would have drawing techniques, etc. for the pen or pencil...but these issues do not. These seem geared toward PAINTINGS not drawings (or at least these issues do). I have yet to see a drawing. Everything so far are paintings, with the exception of 3 color pencil drawings in the back of the magazine in the latest issue.

What I DO see however are various color pages of paintings submitted to the magazine with articles about how the artist did the painting... with little behind the scenes tidbits within the article (like for one painting of the boston skyline, the article said the man took pictures out of an open door of a helicopter).

I was a little disappointed with the lack of instruction, this book does NOT give techniques or advice.

But it IS a wonderful artistic magazine for all artists if you want inspiration and see how the pros do it!

American Artist Magazine Review
I find the information within the pages of American Artist to be extremely valuable. The technical page offers insight to various problems the artist will encounter, and offers detailed advice on how to rectify those problems. The magazine highlights several artists in a variety of media within the same issue, so there is something for every art enthusiast.The artist sections offer a birds eye glimpse into the particular way that they create their art. I find myself referring frequently to past issues, enjoying the artwork that it entails, and often rereading many of the articles time after time. An immense amount of useful information in each issue.Not bogged down with pages of advertisements. I highly recommend The Artist Magazine.

art,painting and drawing
i dont know what can i write . i want anything about art exactly about painting,drawing,modern art ... Read more

Reviews (7)

the most inspiring book availibe
If you are open minded and passionate. Flaunt is for you. The most amazing photoshoots, with a vision that only a freak can relate too (in a good way). the creativity is always has a unique flavor with a new twist monthly.

Such a cool magazine!!!
GREAT photos! Cool little articles, though i would really only get this magazine for the excellent photography because it doesn't really focus on mass-media current events that you'd find in, say, a People or an Us Weekly. It has an upscale feel to it, and you can tell that there is a true vision behind this product. Anyone that is into the arts, particularly coiture, modeling, and photography would love this magazine for its visual energy and eccentricity.

Strange, but refreshing
I saw this magazine while browsing a local bookstore and it was a magazine that stood out for some reason...I picked it up and flipped through a few pages and came across an article on Maggie Gyllanhall. I had recently watched "Secretary," and I liked her, so I bought it. I'm not much for fashion magazines but this is much different from others like Vogue. After buying my first Flaunt magazine, I wanted to buy more, but needless to say, the bookstore has not gotten any in for a long time...:( This magazine will be great for readers who are bored with the same crap churned out in every other magazine out there...

Cool before it was cool to be cool
This magazine offers a glimpse into what it means to be truly hip. It also has a little nudity in each issue, so you really can't go wrong.

Great Style/Fashion/Design Magazine
The magazine is really great. Before i started reading flaunt i read surface* and wallpaper. Flaunt has more pop culture articles that I find more interesting than those in other magazines which seem like they are just made for rich people. Another good thing is that they avoid having too many articles about Europe and "Spring Break-like" travel articles which are reused in other magazines over-and-over. Another good magazine to read is Architectual Record. "One" was a really good magazine like flaunt, i don't even know if its still published anymore. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Pastel Journal
I read Pastel Journal every month to see what other artists are doing, view a calender of pastel shows, and get information about pastel products. This magazine is hard to find in stores. I really look forward to getting an issue. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Numero Uno
If you earn your living as an artist, or aspire to do so, Art Calendar is essential, and should be the number one magazine on your subscription list.
The articles are all informative, and cover a wide range of topics that relate to art and its marketing. Subjects like legal issues (copyright laws, etc.) for instance, can be very complex, and are described in an understandable way, using English instead of a lot of legal terms.

Regular contributor Jack White usually writes about what he knows best, which is selling art, and keeping your outlook positive. A well respected artist and author, Jack is quite an art team with his successful painter wife, Mikki Senkarik, and I never miss his upbeat take on the "art biz".
Another regular is Steve Meltzer "The Photo Guy", with lots of tips on photographing your work. You can't take advantage of many of the available opportunities without good photographs and slides of your art, and Steve will tell you how to do it.

"The Listings" is the most comprehensive list of upcoming juried exhibits, festivals, grants/fellowships, publishing opportunities, and much more, to be found anywhere in print. Thanks to the dilligent skill and hard work of publisher and editor-in-chief Carolyn Blakeslee Proeber, along with her husband David and their staff, we can get all this information under one cover.
Art Calendar also encourages artists to submit slides and photographs to their magazine for possible use as illustrations (details on the exact procedure for this are in the magazine). There are many black and white images on the inside pages, and a full color cover. I'm proud to say that one of my pieces was on the February 2003 cover, so I know that having one's work published in this magazine can actually happen !
I cannot emphasize enough how important this publication is to the life of an artist. Do not hesitate to subscribe, it will be well worth it.

Best magazine for practicing artists
This is the best magazine for practicing artists. Articles about tax issues, shooting your own slides, publicity, approaching galleries, advice, artist communities, international shows, etc. Best of all--hundreds of show opportunities in every issue... ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great magazine
I buy this magazine on the newsstand whenever I come across it, and I've rarely been disappointed. The magazine focuses squarely on contemporary sculpture and installation art - which means lots of minimalism, abstraction, and innovative use of materials. Fans of more traditional art may be left cold, but this sort of thing is right up my alley.

Some of the more interesting things I've come across in Sculpture include the "light sculptures" of James Turrell, a Donald Judd retrospective, and an interview with Maya Lin about her earthworks and installations.

The design and photography is all first-rate, and although the commentary does get a bit too eggheaded for my tastes, I still count this among my favorite magazines. Recommended to any enthusiast of contemporary art. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Cool to look at, but when it comes to reading...
... I don't know. I guess my major complaint is that, if you aren't already privy to the latest in fashion, music, etc (like the other reviewer said, and he's quite right, this is a very hip magazine), then you'll probably feel pretty lowbrow. They don't really try to familiarize you with what's cool like GQ or DETAILS does; you're either in or you're not. However, it's definitely better than FLAUNT, which seems to be trying to imitate BLACK BOOK, in that the photography isn't as pretentious and the articles have a little more substance.

My last (subjective) complaints: the covers usually have celebrities I sort of consider to be overexposed (Jay Z, Adrien Brody, et al), and this is the magazine that Norman Mailer's stupid son/grandson (I don't remember which) John Buffalo Mailer wrote a piece in that has since catapulted him into HIGH TIMES fame (nepotism is never cool).

The Hippest Mag Around
Starting as a quartely publication, Black Book has vaulted to bi-monthly releases and the highest level a magazine can aspire to reach. The publishers have their finger on a pulse that pumps literary, fashion, music, entertainment and art style onto eye catching pages. I haven't missed an issue and never will. ... Read more

Abstract

Coverage of the treasures collectors love, the places to discover them, & the unique ways collectors use them to enrich their environments.
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Reviews (1)

Should be titled "People & Personalities"
Compared to "Art & Auction," "Art @ Antiques" is fairly breezy and superficial. Too many articles profile wealthy socialite collectors or handsome artists whose work is mostly decorative--in the Leroy Neiman league. (One annual feature profiles "The top 100 collectors" which is, of course, nothing but gush.)The paid advertisements mostly feature artists of the post-Grandma Moses school. If you want to sharpen your taste and enlarge your knowledge of the art world, this is not the magazine to start with. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Of Excellent Quality
I have kept editions from 1985; they are still in excellent condition. Having not revisited them for many years, I am blown away by the quality of the paper, the photography, the color, and the articles inside. I was so happy when I found out that FMR is still being made and available in the U.S.

Art work unto itself
I was introduced to this magazine by a friend who had purchased old copies at a flea market. The paper and printing is of the highest quality and stood the test of time. Copies from 1990 were magnificent. The interior photographs of the art works were amazing and showed incredible detail. And the articles were very well written. Yes, you are introduced to artists and works lesser known to us in America, which is only our loss. I was so happy to find it available at Amazon. It is truly a work of art unto itself.

Don't call yourself an art enthusiast until you subscribe
This is a stunning art publication for mainstream readers and art afficianados alike. Its quality and the detail are unmatched. It will be wildly fascinating to those that find pleasure in beauty ---- not just in the famous classics ---- but those artists that never quite made it into the spotlight. Not avilable on newsstands. (I can't believe I lived this long without discovering it.) Kudos to this publisher with such fine, signature work in an age of media consolidation. ... Read more