Brian Shapiro's autobiography presents six decades of a life dedicated to art. The reader lives through the emotional highs and lows of Shapiro's life and is shown how these life experiences impact his art. One sees how art is the constant force which drives him to continually sculpt, paint, and draw the world around him in a straightforward and realistic way, accessible to the average person for inspiration, appreciation and understanding.
The book is illustrated with 240 photos, which are a sampling of the over 3000 paintings, drawings, sculptures, and architectural works he has completed to date. This book is both a compelling biography and a well-documented art book.
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By njpwml
May 3, 2010
I have read your biographical book and think it's a beautiful book, very well written, and it's too bad that other artists haven't done the same thing as you. It would have been wonderful to read what motivated artists like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Sargent, etc, etc. You have expressed your raisin d'etre very well and I have been amazed at the consistent quality of your work. You have been true to yourself for all these years. I also am amazed at the size of many of your works and your murals. And with your ability to design and build your own homes I am reminded of the genius of Thomas Jefferson, and of course, the great Leonardo. Your interest and familiarity with the working class of so many people that you have met is inspiring and reminds me as well of artists such as Millet, Van Gogh, R. Soyer, Goya, etc. It shows such an interest in people and your philosophy of painting comes across loud and clear in your book. An artist is often a chronicler of his times demonstrating events,... More > people, working conditions, architecture and so much more. Your interest in the "common" man, is wonderful to see. I have enjoyed experiencing subjects as diverse as Israel, Hollywood, West Virginia, Hudson Highlands, and Wisconsin to name a few. I know you are obsessed with the beauty of the world and religion want to express your interest in so many subjects. It's really been a pleasure to read about your magnificent obsession. I look forward to seeing much more of the world through your eyes and talent.< Less
Brian Shapiro is one of those rare artists who brings a lifetime of work, truth and beauty to the every day. His work is a reminder of the spiritual and transforming in what most of us pass over without a second glance. Blessings on him for that and for showing us that life is more. Surely we are more for having Brian Shapiro.
Brian Shapiro's autobiographical perspective is filled with an honest portrayal of experiencing the exultations and struggles of life with his unique artistic vision. Each chapter of his life is infused with the stuff of an ordinary life lived in an unordinary manner. His total embrace of who he is as an artist has propelled him to express that gift in every facet of life....family, community, nature, architecture, religion....and we are all enriched by him.
