| When I hear about new art anthologies, I always wonder whether they’ll include many people of color, especially those who go beyond conventional painting and sculpture. Nuyorican and Diasporican Visual Art: A Critical Anthology, edited by Arlene Dávila and Yasmin Ramirez, is a much-needed study of Puerto Rican artists, too often neglected in broader compendiums. As Alicia Grullón finds in her informative review, the book takes care to include a range of mediums and artists. It’s an important addition to the art historical canon. Maria Fernández looks at a more haunting study in her review of Echoes from the Borderlands. The book (with an accompanying audio element) is based on a 24-hour sound work by Valeria Luiselli, Ricardo Giraldo, and Leo Heiblum, recorded along an expanse of the US-Mexico border. Photos represent the artwork minute by minute. This is one art book that’s bound to linger in your mind.
To end on a hopeful note, Melissa Holbrook Pierson looks at how free expression, prompted by a trip to a Michael’s craft store, pulled designer Peter Mendelsund out of a depression, detailed in his book Exhibitionist. And if you haven’t already, make sure to check out our list of Pride Month art books. No matter how you fit into the month’s festivities, we’re sure you’ll find some great summertime reading. — Natalie Haddad, Reviews Editor |
