The Sculptor's Eye

A sequel to the authors' artfully simple guide to appreciating American postwar painting ( The Painter's Eye ), this survey of American sculpture attempts more and accomplishes less. Thirty-five works by 25 stellar artists--including Isamu Noguchi, Louise Nevelson, Claes Oldenburg, Mark di Suvero and Martin Puryear--are examined in terms of subject matter, positive and negative space, material and color. Extensive interviews with artists cover techniques, influences and aesthetic philosophies. But too many concepts vie for coverage: Pop art, minimalism, superrealism and environmental art rush by unsavored, as do the artists' comments, which are alternately illuminating and obscure. Illustrated with fine color reproductions and black-and-white photographs of the artists at work, and including a list of U.S. sculpture gardens, glossary, biographical sketches, historical overview and bibliography, this attractive book is closer to an anthology than an introduction. It may appeal to mature readers who have both prior experience with contemporary art and the patience to sort through the crush of styles, techniques and opinions so faithfully compiled here. Ages 10-up. (Oct.)