Quick Take

His internationally best-selling Griffin & Sabine saga is treasured for its blend of lyrical storyline and compelling, imaginative art. Now Nick Bantock gives a short course in visual creativity in Urgent 2nd Class . A tour through the techniques and materials which constitute his signature style, Bantock shares with readers numerous ways ways of using old paper ephemera -- maps, letters, postcards, ledgers, scraps, photos, and many more items -- to create their own idiosyncratic art. Written for people of all artistic skill levels, the materials mentioned are all easily found and inexpensive, and the processes are simple enough to do at home (and with access to the most advanced machinery used in the book, a photocopier). An inspirational guide to the simple artistic techniques which can alchemically transform ephemera into remarkable works, Urgent 2nd Class is the handbook for a new generation of visual poets.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Urgent 2nd Class: Creating Curious Collage, Dubious Documents, and Other Art from Ephemera

Introduction

Nick Bantock, the internationally best-selling author of the Griffin & Sabine saga, has once again captivated readers with his latest book, "Urgent 2nd Class: Creating Curious Collage, Dubious Documents, and Other Art from Ephemera." This book offers a short course in visual creativity, exploring the techniques and materials that constitute Bantock's signature style. In this article, we will delve into the book's content, discuss the author's background, analyze readers' views, and provide reasons for both recommending and not recommending this book.

About Nick Bantock

Nick Bantock is an accomplished author and artist with a BA in Fine Art (painting) from England. He has authored 25 books, 11 of which have appeared on the best-seller lists, including three books on the New York Times top ten. His works have been translated into 13 languages and have sold over 5 million copies worldwide. With a lifetime BAFTA (British Oscar) for his CD-ROM game "Ceremony of Innocence," Bantock's artwork has been featured in numerous international newspapers and magazines. He has also designed theater posters and illustrated numerous book covers.

Analysis of Views

Inspiration and Curiosity: Readers appreciate the book for its ability to inspire them to create art using ephemera found in antique shops or street markets. The unique combination of various materials, such as stamps, maps, engravings, and photographs, captures their imagination and encourages exploration.
Ephemera Collection: The book offers a glimpse into Bantock's extensive collection of ephemera, allowing readers to admire and appreciate the found objects for their sheer uniqueness. The inclusion of old travel maps, custom-made rubber stamps, hand-drawn illustrations, and retro food labels adds to the book's charm.
Limited Instructions: While some readers find the book enjoyable to peruse, they note that it lacks detailed instructions on how to replicate Bantock's artistic style. The chapters focus more on where to find unique items and provide a few examples of their application. This may be a drawback for those seeking step-by-step guidance.
Originality vs. Reproduction: A few readers express concern about Bantock's artwork being precious or merely a sign of having a good eye for collecting unusual items. They argue that it is not truly original art but rather a sign of appreciating found objects and incorporating them into one's own creations.
Artistic Inspiration: Many readers find the book valuable for its suggestions and ideas on how to create collages using old postcards, maps, and documents. It allows them to incorporate their own artistic taste and imagination to recreate their own collages, making it a useful resource for those interested in artistic expression.

Reasons for Recommendation

Inspirational Approach: Readers appreciate the book's ability to inspire them to create art using ephemera found in various places. It encourages exploration and experimentation with different materials, leading to unique and personalized artwork.
Beautiful Visuals: The book features stunning visuals of Bantock's artwork, showcasing his signature style and providing inspiration for readers to create their own collages and art pieces. The combination of old paper ephemera with modern techniques results in visually striking pieces that are sure to captivate viewers.
Learning Resource: For those interested in learning about collage techniques and artistic expression, "Urgent 2nd Class" offers valuable insights and suggestions. It provides ideas and examples that allow readers to experiment with different materials and create their own artworks, making it a valuable resource for aspiring artists.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Insufficient Instructions: Some readers find the book lacking in detailed instructions on how to replicate Bantock's artistic style. While it provides ideas and examples, it does not offer step-by-step guidance that may be necessary for those seeking more structured guidance in creating collages or other artworks.
Artistic Debate: A few readers express concerns about Bantock's artwork being precious or merely a sign of having a good eye for collecting unusual items. They argue that it is not truly original art but rather a sign of appreciating found objects and incorporating them into one's own creations. This may be a point of contention for those seeking more originality in their artistic endeavors.

Conclusion

"Urgent 2nd Class: Creating Curious Collage, Dubious Documents, and Other Art from Ephemera" by Nick Bantock offers readers an inspirational journey into visual creativity, exploring the techniques and materials that constitute Bantock's signature style. While some readers appreciate the book's ability to inspire them to create art using ephemera found in various places, others find it lacking in detailed instructions or express concerns about the originality of Bantock's artwork. Overall, the book serves as a valuable resource for those interested in collage techniques, artistic expression, and exploring the beauty of found objects in their creative endeavors.