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John Hassall: The Life and Art of the Poster King
£26.20£28.50 (-8%)
During the early twentieth century, John Hassall was one of Britain’s best-known and most high-profile artists. Working across a variety of disciplines, he was a prolific book illustrator, a humorous artist for postcards and magazines, an art school founder and teacher, a painter in oils, consummate clubman, and a designer of toys, figurines, pottery and nursery decor. But it was through his commercial illustration for travel companies, political causes, theatre and well-known brands that he made his name in an age when advertising hoardings were known as the, ‘poor man’s art gallery’. Hassall’s natural affinity for poster art, and the popularity of his creations, was to earn him the title, ‘The Poster King’. Employing bold line, flat colours and an engagingly cheery style, Hassall’s designs had immediate impact with many creations, notably his famous, ‘Skegness is SO bracing’ poster, becoming embedded in popular culture. Drawing on previously unpublished artwork and sketches along with letters, diaries and photographs, this lavishly illustrated book seeks to explore the full scope of John Hassall’s body of work, and to celebrate the life of this extraordinary artist a century on from his heyday.
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Additional information
| Publisher | Unicorn (15 April 2021) |
|---|---|
| Language | English |
| Hardcover | 256 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 1913491234 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1913491239 |
| Dimensions | 19.05 x 2.54 x 26.04 cm |
by jacksonb
Those whose knowledge of the work of John Hassall has, to date, been confined to his famous ‘Skegness Is So Bracing!’ poster are in for a real treat with the publication of Lucinda Gosling’s fascinating record of the artist’s life and work. Other reviewers have mentioned, and Mike Leigh has noted in his Foreword to the book, that there is no doubt that this will go on to be recognised as the definitive work on John Hassall, performing a service to art history in rescuing him from the neglect and relative obscurity which too often is the fate of commercial artists. The number of colour illustration is quite astounding for a book offered at such a modest price and includes examples of Hassall’s fine art paintings. The forthcoming John Hassall exhibition at the Heath Robinson Museum, Pinner 22 May to 29 August, will provide an opportunity to see some of the originals of the posters illustrated in this book.
Finally, the author and designer are to be congratulated on the high standards evident throughout in the layout and printing of the book. It is a quality presentation which shows the care taken, from the choice of paper to the inclusion of illustrated endpapers and even the charming addition of a ribbon bookmark, combining to make this a perfect gift. The quality of paper and print is not a minor one – there is always the choice of working down to a price or up to a standard. I recall some years ago receiving a much-awaited publication about Ladybird Books only to be disappointed by the muddy colours of the reproductions used which ruined the work of the excellent illustrators who had worked for the company.
Although the history of commercial artists of the last century is an area in which I work, there was so much in Lucinda Gosling’s book that was new to me. I am certain that other readers will also find it a pleasure to read and to learn more about the man they called ‘the Poster King.’
by Dolores
This book is really fascinating Beautifully illustrated and laid out very logically in sections that show a lot of care in presenting the illustrations and topics grouped together according to area covered. Thoroughly researched, and the text is very enjoyable and informative. I began by dipping into it – which you can easily do, cherrypicking the areas of interest – but I was soon so intrigued that I sat down and read it cover to cover. I had never heard of this artist before – well done, Lucinda Gosling! The humour of many of the pictures is stunning, and the artist’s character is well and truly brought to life. This is a book to put you in a very good mood. I have never before found a non-fiction book to be unputdownable- that’s normally for thrillers and ‘action fiction’- but this book certainly is.
by T. Hardy
A fabulous book portraying one of England’s finest and most versatile artists. Colour reproduction and sharpness of printing is simply superb. If you like art books, you’ll love this one.
by Chloe E Walker
Lucinda Gosling writes beautifully about this amazing man who brought so much to the art world. I’m so glad my friend brought this book to my attention!
by Lauraverity
This book was given to me as a present, and what a present it is.
Fantastically illustrated and a much loved book for my library, John Hassall been amazing to produce such artwork.
Compliments must go to the author to gather together this super book. AAA
by neil c
John Hassall was so underrated as an artist and Lucinda Gosling has done a brilliant job of bringing him to life in this new definitive work. It’s beautifully presented with hundreds of splendid illustrations and the text is thoroughly researched and well written.
The perfect book for anyone with any interest in the work and life of a wonderful artist or indeed anyone who enjoys a really good art book.
Easy 5 stars.
by laurah
Delightful images, beautifully explained. Having bought this for myself, I’ll be buying others as gifts. I read it from cover to cover, but equally you could have it on your coffee table to dip in and out of. Entertaining, as well as an in-depth understanding of an era through the wonderful artist John Hassell brought to life by the author.
by Ann and Ken Blackmore
A wonderfully written and beautifully illustrated biography about the artist John Hassall. Lucinda Gosling’s meticulous research reveals in detail the full extent of his life and art. Although justly named the “Poster King” there is so much more in this book to explore about this very talented artist and illustrator.