Book Review – Encore! The New Artisans by Olivier Dupon

Mr X Stitch Book Review

Introduction

Large and imposing, Encore!  The New Artisans by Olivier Dupon marks the second instalment in this series of books.  With it’s hard cover and copious pages, it promises substance………

Who is the book for?

I see it as anyone interested in the craft genre or those who want a good talking point; something to open and pore over.

It covers so may types of Craft, namely:  Art, Ceramics, textiles…to name only a few.

Although it is not purely headed towards textiles as a closed subject, its tactile content is so large that if this was your pure interest, there is still plenty to read.

As far as the author Olivier Dupon is concerned, ‘is no loner a trend; it is at last enshrined in contemporary life’ – what is he getting at?  Lets look at a few points.

Content

With an impressive amount of illustrations, this book keeps us visually fed….

Book Review - Encore! The New Artisans by Olivier Dupon

The two page introduction documents Craft and where the author feels it is at right now.  Focus on slow-design in comparison to other methods gets a mention.  In this current mantra / mindful worthy climate, this book seems to fit its place in time.

Previously Craft may have been seen as a hobby, something do if bored or on grandma duty; yet Dupon looks to be striving to elevate its status and celebrate its worth through this showcase; which is essentially what this book is…a showcase of artistry.

What makes it special?

Photography

The way each image has been taken and chosen has been planned and thought out.  Each artist has been given a couple of pages to document their own story into craft and the processes they execute.  For the nosey one of us (I put my hands up) it fills a hole; illustrating not only each artists creations but the making stages and studio settings.

Book Review - Encore! The New Artisans by Olivier Dupon
Abigail Brown. Artist, Illustrator, 3D Sculpture & Ceramics. UK

The unusual to the usual 

Book Review - Encore! The New Artisans by Olivier Dupon
From traditional embroidery to stuffed felt eyeballs…what’s not to love?

Book Review - Encore! The New Artisans by Olivier Dupon

Highlights

For those of us with a Textile art leaning…..

Book Review - Encore! The New Artisans by Olivier Dupon
Mister Finch is a favourite; he reuses vintage cloth to create creatures such as these cashmere safe moths…

What is wrong with the book?

As a publication, it proves to be a great showcase for the artists illustrated, but this is not your in depth craft explainer; what is behind this change in times where craft is now recognised?  This is an area to discover within another publication.

The objects documented are at times a little gimmicky, what is the reason behind them?  At least we have the artists impression to give us the heads up.

Conclusion

Okay, so this isn’t a political in-depth volume on where craft is at.  Yes for those involved, it proves to be a great medium to get noticed, with each artists work put in its best light.

For those of us with an interest in Textiles, as said there is plenty to read and at the back of the book, there is a fully illustrated directory, giving us even more to take in.

For those who simply want a table decoration, it definitely sits nicely….but please, don’t buy it for that reason…it is worth so much more.

Get your copy here through our Amazon store.

Share The Love

Want More of the good stuff?

Sew Eco by Ruth Singer

Sew Eco by Ruth Singer is a compelling guide to sustainable textile arts, offering innovative projects and insights for eco-friendly creativity.

Read More
Emma Congdon - Cross Stitch with Cattitude

14 Must-Have Cross Stitch Books for a Crafty Christmas 2023

Discover our curated selection of the 14 best cross stitch books for 2023, perfect for gifting or indulging in your passion for needlework this Christmas. From modern classics to subversive samplers, these must-have cross stitch guides offer inspiration and detailed instructions for crafters at every level.

Read More