A History of Pictures for Children

‘A History of Pictures for Children‘ offers a question and answer forum wherein David Hockney and Martin Gayford examine pictures through the ages. We begin with inspiration, considering why we make pictures. Throughout history, painters have always sought to describe the world in which they live, and reflect themselves. As techniques and materials have evolved, and influences have spread, painters have become more sophisticated. Their storytelling is more complex.

David Hockney and Martin Gayford look at well known works and ask what is being shown. We learn how to read clues in pictures. We realise the influences, e.g., how a discovery of Japan by the Western world is evident in works such as ‘Père Tanguy’ by Vincent Van Gogh.

We see how artists borrowed from history and each other, e.g., how mirror images in sculpture are reflected in ancient paintings as ‘Seated Woman Holding a Woman’ (430 BCE)

David Hockney expands on the techniques and equipment which he has employed, from modern technology to Impressionist influences, as in his ‘Study of Water’ (1976)

‘A History of Pictures for Children‘ is a proud, fulfilling, really revealing book. I could wile away hours within it. It makes me want to learn and see more. This book is an ideal gift, but also a ‘forever’ title recommended for every home bookshelf..