From Library Journal

There are a number of living artists whose reputations are solid but whose work is sadly unknown outside the art world. Fortunately, the "Contemporary Artists" series will go far to correct that. Affordable, thoroughly illustrated in color, these books provide maximum exposure for the price. Although this is enough to make the series worthy of consideration, it is important to point out what makes it unique. Each volume includes writings by the artists whenever possible. Of the two considered here, painter/printmaker Spero and photographer Wall, the latter is the more verbally prolific. In addition, a piece of literature was preselected by the artist to use as a tool for discussion. Put this together with essays by curators and critics, interviews from throughout the artist's career, and a handy chronology and you get an interesting, overall view of the artist. This multifaceted approach is rewarding not only for its comprehensive view of each individual artist but also because it allows each book in the series to vary according to its subject's strengths. A work in progress?these are the fifth and sixth titles, respectively?this series is a practical buy for most libraries but is especially recommended for academic and large public libraries.?Susan M. Olcott, Columbus Metropolitan Lib., Ohio

Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

Review

'prove[s] beyond doubt that photography can coalesce as much narrative and emotion as any brushwork on canvas.' Lucy Davies, Daily Telegraph, 28 November 2009 'offers tremendous insight into what makes [Wall's] work so appealing, so different ... Accompanied by a number of illuminating interviews and authoritative texts, this impressive volume offers the most comprehensive survey of Wall's influential career to date. Wall has made a particular photography domain his own and on his territory there is nobody to touch him.' 1000 Words, March 2010 --This text refers to the Paperback edition.