John Maizels

Many people are confused upon hearing the term "outsider art." After all how can anything be outsider art when the definition of art is so loosely defined? And yet, this complicated term is somewhat of a standard in the art world and becoming more widely studied as more art historians (and artists) realize the importance that these creators have to our world. These folks that are self-taught, folk artists, etc. have an important place within the art world and this outstanding book takes a close look at their place in the world. Maizels experience within and interactions with these artists allows him to place their work into the context of art, history, and life. It is divided into three sections: Part one explores Art Brut, Dubuffet, and the art of the insane; part two focuses on folk and self-taught artists around the world; and part three looks at visionary environments. The book is composed of many fantastic photographs and illustrations that highlight just what is being discussed throughout the book. In fact if there is any complaint about the book is that sometimes the photographs overwhelm the text. Overall though this is an important book to a better understanding of the art world and is highly recommended for any artist, historian, or fan of art.… (more)

This book offers views and history for 62 "fantasy worlds", that is large, elaborate constructions, generally built single-handedly by designers. The text is in English, French and German. The book has at least two pages, and sometimes more, of color photographs for each site. In addition, there is a list of other sites open to the public, as well as museums of "outsider" art (such as our own American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore). The book strikes a nice balance between including a lot of different sites and giving enough details about each one to appreciate it. A fabulous book about fantasies.… (more)