Books by Susie Hodge

How Art Can Change Your Life

by Susie Hodge

Offering helpful guidance, this illustrated handbook introduces new ways of viewing art and shows how anyone can use art to work through difficult emotions and improve their mental state.
Enlightening, challenging, and informative, visual art can also be therapeutic, reducing anxiety and stress levels, and offering perspective on the challenges that we all face in our lives. How Art Can Change Your Life introduces readers to new ways of looking at a wide range of art. Through careful examination and explanation, author Susie Hodge investigates how engaging with art and drawing can help everyone feel more connected and inspired.
From Frida Kahlo confronting her anxieties to Henri Matisse embracing happiness, and from Louise Bourgeois conquering fear to Auguste Rodin finding hope, this book will show how you too can use art to work through difficult emotions and improve your mental state. All art can broaden knowledge, give enjoyment, and challenge our assumptions; but it can also help soothe, calm, enlighten, and uplift the mind and spirit. Even art that leaves us uncomfortable can still help us to think differently and give us new perspective.
In twelve chapters, readers will learn how art can dissipate anger, help to overcome sorrow, inspire self-reflection, as well as tackle other mental challenges. Artists have been conveying aspirations, feelings, ideas, and stories for thousands of years, and this book will help everyone “read” those messages with the goal of enriching their own emotional life through art. 88 illustrations

My Big Art Show: A Card Game + Book - Collect Paintings to Win

by Susie Hodge

An exciting educational card game in which children interact with art history from the perspective of a gallery curator
My Big Art Show is a thrilling game in which children curate their own art shows. Each card represents a work of art as well as key information, such as artist and date. The cards also use symbols and colors to indicate which movement and theme the work represents. There are twelve movements: Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Realism, Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, Expressionism, Cubism, Futurism, Surrealism, and Pop Art, and six themes: People, Places, Objects, Animals, Story, and Religion. The aim of the main card game is to be the first to “put on a show,” or collect three and four of a kind. The game encourages children to become familiar with great art works and movements from the last five centuries, and helps them recognize the styles and themes that paintings share. The cards show reproductions of over fifty major works of art―by Michelangelo, Velázquez, Degas, Van Gogh, Kandinsky, Picasso, Dalí, Warhol, and others. An informative book supports the game by providing further information on the artworks and artists, answers to questions on the cards and alternative games to play. Illustrated in color throughout

Modern Art in Detail: 75 Masterpieces

by Susie Hodge

An accessible and comprehensive guide to understanding the detail behind modern art
Great works of art cannot be fully understood in a single encounter. This is perhaps even truer for modern artworks that may not immediately make sense to, or even appeal to, the casual observer. Viewing an artwork― whether it is a painting, sculpture, installation, video, or photograph― as a whole is one method of interacting with it, but a deeper understanding can only be gained by analyzing it in detail.
Modern Art in Detail: 75 Masterpieces spotlights the finer points that even connoisseurs may miss. The book includes all the minutiae that a quick glance will almost certainly fail to reveal, including subtle internal details. Susie Hodge writes intelligently and informatively about relevant external influences on the artist―everything from global political events to groundbreaking movements such as Cubism, Futurism, and Primitivism, and even scientific and mathematical theories.
This book examines seventy-five artworks from the late nineteenth century to the modern day. It treats each of its subjects on its own merits, but it also views each as part of a tradition that links it to the past, which sees artists pass a baton down through the ages. Moreover, it charts the shift from the supremacy of artistic technique to the dominance of the idea or concept behind the object created. 650 color illustrations

The Short Story of Art: A Pocket Guide to Key Movements, Works, Themes, & Techniques (Art History Introduction, A Guide to Art)

by Susie Hodge

The Short Story of Art is a pocket guide to key movements, works, themes and techniques – a new and innovative introduction to the subject of art. Simply constructed, the book explores 50 key works, from the wall paintings of Lascaux to Damien Hirst installations, and then links these to sections on art movements, themes and techniques.

The design of the book allows the student or art enthusiast to easily navigate their way around key periods, artists and styles. Accessible and concise, it simplifies and explains the most important and influential concepts in art, and shows how they are connected. The book explains how, why and when art changed, who introduced certain things, what they were, where they were produced, and whether they matter. It demystifies artistic jargon, giving readers a thorough understanding and broad enjoyment of art.

'Susie Hodge has culled through hundreds of art movements to highlight and present 36 that illustrate transitions of art, its ideas, representations, characteristics, and production from Prehistoric times up to the dynamic shifts of the 1960s and '70s. As complex as art history is, this book is a welcome, succinct introduction to some classic Western masters.'
Cindy Helm, New York Journal of Books

'Excellent introduction to the subject. A good quality book, tightly bound, and well illustrated.'
– Colin, Amazon reviewer

'The Short Story of Art is an attractive volume that serves as a convenient introduction to major movements, works, themes, and techniques of Western art. The works within are featured more for their seminal or illustrative nature than their fame per se, so the "story" part of the title is apt. The cross referencing and "Other works by…" sections makes it clear that this book is encouraging the reader to explore art on his own.'
–Tommy Grooms, Goodreads reviewer

The Short Story of Architecture: A Pocket Guide to Key Styles, Buildings, Elements & Materials (Architectural History Introduction, A Guide to Architecture)

by Susie Hodge

The Short Story of Architecture is a pocket book guide to key styles, buildings, elements and materials – a new and innovative guide to the subject of architecture that explores 50 key buildings, from the Great Pyramids to high–tech, sustainable skyscrapers.

Accessible and concise, the book links the 50 key works to the most important architectural materials, elements and styles, giving readers all the tools they need to understand and appreciate the built world.

"A brilliant little book […] Those with an interest in architecture but who find the language and jargon of the genre intimidating and often impenetrable are sure to find Hodge's simple accessible style enjoyable and refreshing"– Self Build & Design

"I enjoyed this book. There is no fluff here, nothing extra. It's just a great overview of some great buildings, architectural styles and materials. The photographs are beautiful and the writing crisp and clear. I recommend this book for anyone who wants an introduction to architecture and some insights in the buildings around us or that predate us." – Goodreads reviewer

"I am an architect and most certainly enjoyed this book. (…) [T]he chapters Elements and Materials are a nice take on architectural history and will offer valuable information for non professionals! I see this book as an encyclopaedia to get basic information on various topics. But the very short chapters are really just a starting point. The images are very helpful throughout and the layout is clean and helps the reader navigate the book. You are looking for a Short Story of Architecture? That is exactly what you get, in the best possible way." – Goodreads reviewer

Other books in 'The Short Story of…' series include The Short Story of Art, The Short Story of Photography, The Short Story of Film and The Short Story of Modern Art.

Art Heist: 50 Stolen Artworks You Will Never See

by Susie Hodge

An intriguing investigation into 50 elusive artworks that were stolen and never recovered.

Mona Lisa, Starry Night, Birth of Venus. People travel for hundreds of miles to observe these breathtaking paintings with their own eyes. Now discover the artworks that nobody can ever see… and the fascinating stories behind their disappearance.

In this collection of daring heist stories, read about:
Michelangelo’s Mask of a Faun Caravaggio’s Nativity Rembrandt’s Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man Cézanne’s View of Auvers-sur-Oise Van Gogh’sThe Parsonage Garden at Nuenen in Spring

With meticulous research and engaging storytelling, this book uncovers the mysteries surrounding the thefts of these valuable artworks and 45 more.

Each fated work will be discussed individually to reveal why it, and the artist who made it, was significant. Gain a deeper appreciation for these artists, and the lasting impact they've had on the art world.

This book also answers key questions about each missing piece, including: Why and how was it stolen? What attempts have been made to recover it? Leads, red herrings, and suspects.
Whether you're passionate about art or drawn to the thrill of solving mysteries, this book offers a compelling narrative that will keep you engaged from cover to cover. It's a must-read for anyone curious about the intersection of art, crime, and history.

Vincent van Gogh (Arcturus Great Artists Series)

by Susie Hodge

He did not paint his pictures; it was like he exhaled them in a gasping, boiling breath
- Julius Meier-Graef

Van Gogh's distinctive style of expressive brushstrokes and bold colors is now world famous, but during his lifetime the artist was met with cold disinterest from his contemporaries.

This book explores the fascinating life story of this tortured soul, who came late to art and suffered throughout his life from anxiety and depression. It unravels the influences behind his artworks, from the luminous landscapes of the south of France to the Japanese woodblock prints he so admired, and explores how he developed his own unique style.

This detailed monograph features Van Gogh's major works and examines the light they shed on this enigmatic character, serving as a wonderful introduction to one of the best artists of all time.

ABOUT THE SERIES: The Great Artists series by Arcturus Publishing introduces some of the most significant artists of the past 150 years, looking at their lives, inspirations and techniques, as well as presenting a selection of their best work.

The Short Story of Modern Art: A Pocket Guide to Key Movements, Works, Themes, and Techniques

by Susie Hodge

The Short Story of Modern Art explains the how, why and when of modern art – who introduced certain things, what they were, where they were produced, and why they matter.

Simply constructed, the book explores 50 key works – from the realist painting of Courbet to a contemporary installation by Yayoi Kusama – and then links them to the most important movements, themes and techniques. Accessible, concise and richly illustrated, the book reveals the connections between different periods, artists and styles, giving readers a thorough understanding and broad enjoyment of modern art.

monet

by Susie Hodge

This book is an essential volume for anyone wanting to learn more about this fascinating and ground-breaking artist, and to study his greatest works in one collection. The book follows his early experiences and artistic education, as well as his personal life, shedding light on why Monet became the painter he did. The second half is a gallery of more than 300 of his works with analysis of each painting.

Why is Art Full of Naked People: And other vital questions about art

by Susie Hodge

A thoughtful introduction to art and its interpretation for children, with a sense of humor
Why is Art Full of Naked People? is an irreverent and informative primer that asks tricky questions about what makes art art. What is with all the fruit? Why is art so weird nowadays? There are questions about how art views the world, from cave paintings through to Cubism, from the Renaissance to contemporary art, questions about different genres, including still-life painting, landscapes and portraits, and questions about the role and value of art in the past and today.
Artists ask questions when they make art and viewers ask questions when they look at art; this book provides an engaging way for young people to explore asking and answering questions for themselves. The book is structured around twenty-two questions, each one tackled over two spreads. Through this provocative approach it offers an introduction to art history and a toolkit to enable young people to feel confident asking questions, searching for answers, and “reading” art for themselves. Illustrated in color throughout

Artists and Their Pets: True Stories of Famous Artists and Their Animal Friends

by Susie Hodge

Did you know that the great Pablo Picasso had many pets, including a white mouse and a goat? And that Andy Warhol loved his dachshunds, Salvador Dalí liked ocelots and anteaters, and Georgia O'Keeffe had a passion for chows and Siamese cats? Artists and Their Pets tells these stories and many more with full-color illustrations and a chirpy narrative that will delight both art buffs and pet enthusiasts.
Lexile: 1140L

Art Masters: Vincent Van Gogh

by Susie Hodge

He did not paint his pictures; it was like he exhaled them in a gasping, boiling breath
- Julius Meier-Graef

Van Gogh's distinctive style of expressive brushstrokes and bold colors is now world famous, but during his lifetime the artist was met with cold disinterest from his contemporaries.

This book explores the fascinating life story of this tortured soul, who came late to art and suffered throughout his life from anxiety and depression. It unravels the influences behind his artworks, from the luminous landscapes of the south of France to the Japanese woodblock prints he so admired, and explores how he developed his own unique style.

This detailed monograph features Van Gogh's major works and examines the light they shed on this enigmatic character, serving as a wonderful introduction to one of the best artists of all time.

ABOUT THE SERIES: The Art Masters series brings together beautiful hardback monographs of some of the most significant artists in history, looking at their lives, techniques and inspirations, as well as presenting a lavish selection of their best work.

Art Masters: Michelangelo

by Susie Hodge

This lavishly illustrated full-color hardback explores the life and work of Renaissance master Michelangelo, alongside a selection of his best work.

Michelangelo (1475-1564) was the ultimate Renaissance man: not just a painter, but a sculptor, architect and poet besides. He began his career as a sculptor, creating his famous works Pieta and David in his twenties. A master of the human figure, his understanding of its expressive possibilities remains striking, perhaps unparalleled, to this day.

Award-winning art historian Susan Hodge charts his remarkable life, from his training with the painter Ghirlandaio and at the Medici family's Humanist academy, to the high-stakes, high profile commissions of Pope Julius II, including the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, the Last Judgement on the altar wall, and Julius II's own tomb.

Featuring timelines, textboxes and accessible analysis of his major works, this beautifully illustrated hardback makes a wonderful introduction to this incredible artist master.

ABOUT THE SERIES: The Art Masters series brings together beautiful hardback monographs of some of the most significant artists in history, looking at their lives, techniques and inspirations, as well as presenting a lavish selection of their best work.

Art Fraud: Infamous forgers and how their fakes were uncovered

by Susie Hodge

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Art in Detail 100 Masterpieces

by Susie Hodge

Great paintings cannot be fully understood in a single encounter; there is always more to be derived from them. Art lovers may revisit and reconsider the masterpieces throughout their lives, but a deeper understanding can only be gained by analysing the painting in detail, be it the placement of the subject, the lighting, the style of brushstrokes or the themes.

Art in Detail examines 100 iconic paintings from the Western canon and spotlights the finer points a quick glance will almost certainly fail to reveal. These include subtle internal details, such as hidden symbols and artistic tricks employed by the painter to achieve particular effects. In addition, Susie Hodge writes intelligently about external influences on the artist - everything from the socioeconomic context in which he or she flourished, to smaller local difficulties, such as the level of air pollution at the time the painting was created. And she treats each of her subjects not only, to quote Matthew Arnold, 'as in itself it really is', but also as part of a tradition that links the oldest painting to the most recent, as artists pass a metaphorical baton down through the ages.

With 700 illustrations

Artists at Home

by Susie Hodge

Take a look inside the homes of some of your favourite artists and explore how each one reflected their spirit and creativity.

From William Morris and Pablo Picasso to Georgia O’Keeffe and Frida Kahlo, Artists at Home showcases the quiet retreats, creative hubs, lifelong homes, and holiday escapes of key artistic figures. Author Susie Hodge introduces readers to each artist's life and work, placing the significance of the home at the heart of their practice before exploring how each residency both reflected and inspired the artist’s creative output.

By delving into their homes – the architecture, interiors, the lives lived there, and the work created there – we can see these artists’ private spaces as reflections of their artistic output. For these inspiring people, homes are places where the boundaries between work, creativity and daily life are indistinct – they are as much as reflection of their artistic intention as the great artworks that made their name. 

Draw 30: Dogs In Easy Steps

by Susie Hodge

Learn to draw a playful pack of 30 perfect pooches in 6 easy stages!

In no more than 6 simple stages, Susie Hodge shows you how to draw and color 30 dogs and puppies. Create your own kennel of canine companions - from an endearing chocolate Labrador puppy to a rascal of a Jack Russell terrier; a pocket-size chihuahua to a mammoth Great Dane!

Each adorable dog is developed in no more than 6 easy stages, from a rough sketch of the basic shapes through to the finished, colored paw-trait in watercolor or colored pencil - whatever medium you choose. Within the book's easy-to-follow landscape format the dogs leap to life across the pages, making them ideal for budding artists of all pedigrees: from kids looking for afterschool art projects to adults wanting to create lifelike pet portraits.

The book contains material previously published in How to Draw Dogs (2010), PLUS 5 dashing dogs drawn specially for this new volume!

Gustav Klimt Masterpieces of Art

by Susie Hodge

New edition of Gustav Klimt in the popular Masterpieces of Art series.

Gustav Klimt, well known for his sensual, arresting depictions of women (The Kiss, Fulfillment, The Tree of Life), was a founder of the Viennese Secession movement at the turn of the 20th century, Vienna's own Art Nouveau. His extravagant work, was an obsessive manifestation of the dazzling intellectual society of his time and he painted very large canvases combining oils with gold foil. This beautiful new book brings together a wide selection of Klimt’s magnificent work.

The Inspired Traveller Our World in 100 Cultural Places

by Susie Hodge, Sarah Baxter

Discover the destinations that have inspired the world’s greatest art, cinema, food, novels and music.

Pure armchair travel, this book is for anyone with a sense of wanderlust and curiosity: immerse yourself in 100 places that have inspired a remarkable cultural environment.

In Paris, visit the labyrinth streets of Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables and the charming streets of Montmartre, the backdrop of Amélie; in New York visit Brooklyn, home of Spike Lee’s Do the Right Thing and Jean-Michel Basquiat’s stomping ground round the East Village.

Split by continent, and with fascinating text and charming hand-drawn illustrations for each entry, this is the ultimate atlas of 100 cultural places every armchair traveller needs to know about.