Here is a new celtic revival emerging from people who, searching for their identity, rediscover the ancient ruins, celtic crosses, such treasures as the Tara brooch and the book of Kells and Lindisfarne Gospels, gaining a greater understanding and appreciation of the glories of celtic art has lead to a great flowering of new ideas and adaptations by artists and craftsmen throughout the world.
The line drawings in the Celtic Art Source Book by Courtney Davis have been produced so that the professional or amateur alike can use or adapt the designs for their own purpose. The chapters inlude knotwork borders, key patterns, spirals, zoomorphic designs and ornamental initials suitable for the calligrapher.
The 50 superb colour plates will, it is hoped, be an aid to the simulation of creativity- bringing a new flow of free and original artwork to illuminate the present.
Courtney Davis is an artist with a growing reputation as one of the most creative celtic artists working today.
He was born in south Wales in 1946 but spentmost of his early life in London. It was a holiday trip to Wales in 1976 that first sparked off his interest in the celts. Entanced by the characteristics of celtic art, Courtney embarked on a series of celtic designs on which he spent much of his spare time for the next few years. He began to sell these at craft fairs and exhibitions throughout the UK as much as his other work allowed. In 1979 he formed" spirit of celtia" which promoted his cards, embroidery transfers and small publications through mail order. Courtney has had no formal training, yet his work has the fine balance of a man who is a master of his trade.
"A fascinating book at all levels, but the pictures themselves, intricate and brightly coloured, are what count and I cannot praise them too highly."
|
