Some historical figures (like Leonardo da Vinci and Benjamin Franklin) have several children’s picture books written about them. Others — such as many twentieth century artists — have only one (at least readily available in my library system). Instead of devoting a post to each artist, I’ll divide my reviews into two posts, first European artists, then American artists. The subjects of today’s post are Wassily Kandinsky (1866-1944), Rene Magritte (1898-1967), and Piet Mondrian (1872-1944).
The Noisy Paint Box: The Colors and Sounds of Kandinsky’s Abstract Art by Barb Rosenstock, illustrated by Mary Grandpre (Alfred A. Knopf, 2014)
This picture book covers the life of abstract artist Wassily Kandinsky from his childhood in Russia, becoming a lawyer, and finally his career as an artist in Germany. Although I’m not particularly drawn to Kandinsky’s art I liked how this book explained the point of abstract art. It was also interesting to learn that Kandinsky had synesthesia (he described colours as making sounds). The illustrations are a nice balance of realistic and surreal with paintings coming to life in flowing colours. A one-page author’s note gives biographical info and describes synesthesia; it also includes reproductions of four paintings and quotes from Kandinsky. There’s a list of ten sources (books) plus suggested websites. Recommended for ages 6 to 9.
Magritte’s Marvelous Hat by D.B. Johnson (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2012)
In this picture book about the Surrealist artist Rene Magritte, a dog named Magritte buys a hat that insists on floating just above his head. It inspires him to paint his best pictures until it gets tired of being ignored and flies out the window and Magritte must find a way to get his hat back. The book has vivid illustrations with a line or two of text at the bottom. There are Surrealist images on every page (e.g. scissors cutting clouds, a floating statue). Transparencies add to the fun. A one-page author’s note describes Surrealism and Rene Magritte in particular. I think it’s a good, simple introduction to Surrealism. Recommended for ages 4 to 7.
Coppernickel Goes Mondrian by Wouter Van Reek (Enchanted Lion Books, 2012)
I’ll admit this is one of the strangest picture books I’ve ever read. The gist of the plot is that Mr. Quickstep (an alias for Piet Mondrian) is looking for the future; after he leaves, Coppernickel, Tungsten, and Foxtrot go in search of him. A two-page biography of Mondrian is included, without which I would not have understood the story. The back flap explains, “This book is his way of making an ancient Chinese-style movie about going into the future in the 1940s.” Perhaps this book appeals to modern art enthusiasts but I think it is too confusing for children.