Review: Celtic Art: The Methods of Construction by George Bain

Title: Celtic Art: The Methods of Construction
Author(s): George Bain
ISBN#: 9780486229232
Genre(s): Celtic art reference
Edition Reviewed: 2nd
Illustrations: B&amp;W
Page Count: 160
Part of a Series: No

by Chriss Cornish published: June 28, 2010 No Comments

This Book Is About

This unique volume clearly demonstrates simple geometric techniques for making intricate knots, interlacements, spirals, Kells-type initials, human and animal figures in distinctive Celtic style. Features over 500 illustrations.

My Thoughts On This Book

This is a great sourcebook for anyone interested in doing Celtic and Pictish style art or looking for inspiration in their work. However, Celtic Art Methods is not an instruction book.

Originally published in 1964, it’s a reprinting of a largely hand drawn and lettered book and it can be a little messy to learn from for anyone new to Celtic knotwork or spirals. There are also no actual instructions or how-tos. At most there are deconstructions with multiple numbers showing line drawing order. Really, though, you almost have to already know that information in order to recognize it.

So, use other more instructional sources to learn to draw Celtic knotwork and other elements. Then, use this book to further that knowledge and give you ideas.

In addition to knot, interlacement, and spiral construction there is also a whole section on Celtic lettering with examples of several fonts from historical sources like the Book of Kells.

Celtic Art: Methods of Construction also has many reprints of antique knots, illuminations, interlacings and illustrations to provide artists with ideas. This is the way I primarily use the book myself these days. When I first got it use at Green Apple Books in San Francisco, though, I used it to learn different ways to vary knotwork borders.