Life Changing Book of the Day: An Illustrated Life by Danny Gregory

There are many art books that fill my shelves. Some purchased years ago, others more recent. Some of those books I've read once and placed back upon the shelf, never to be opened again. They serve little purpose other than to collect dust. But then there are those few volumes that I refer to almost daily. Usually, they sit on a table in plain view rather than up on a shelf. That's because I know I'll be thumbing through its pages again soon; most likely that very day. Those are the books that serve as a source of constant inspiration to me. Every page turned reveals something new each and every time. I can honestly say: This is a book I love.

"An Illustrated Life" by Danny Gregory is just such a book. Within its pages lies a collection of artworks, (drawings mostly) reproduced from the pages of artists private sketchbooks. Some of these artists have enjoyed years of training at universities, while others like myself are completely self taught. Some keep sketchbooks as part of their work, and some sketch simply for the pleasure it offers. There are even those who reveal the practice to be a daily compulsion that they have little control over. They must, in fact record every minute detail of where they are, who is around, and what they are doing. Some of the artists in this collection use a pencil to record the world around them, some use a pen, others brush, paints or inks, and then there are those who use a combination of media. Every image within tells a story of some sort, and is a joy to behold. Intended or not, each piece of art inside reveals something about the artist as well.

There is such beauty to be found within the pages of this book, that one cannot take it all in simply by browsing through it in one sitting. Dense with drawn images, things can pop out at you that seem brand new even after months spent studying it. Not only is this book full of engaging artistry, it also contains the personal stories, memories, and advice of each artist. They even go to such lengths as to reveal to the reader what kinds of tools and equipment they use in creating their sketchbooks; what kinds of paper and pens for instance.

It may be a cliche, but really, words cannot do this book justice. However one may rave about it, one must really see it themselves in order to truly appreciate it. Whether you have ever kept a sketchbook or not, is not important. That's something that will have absolutley no bearing at all on your enjoyment of this book. However, if you've ever harboured a secret desire to keep a sketchbook, then you'll find loads of inspiration and advice within. In fact, I would be surprised if anyone, of any artistic level or inclination could come away from a single viewing of this lovely collection and not be inspired themselves to immediately put pen to paper and start documenting their lives in some way.

Paraphrashing the artist who brought this collection together in one volume: 'This is the book I've been searching for my whole life'. Because he never found it, he had to put it together himself. I'm so glad he did! Because with my my first flip through its pages, I immediately felt the exact same way: This is a book I've been searching for! It is highly recommended.

An Illustrated Life, by Danny Gregory