An Important Work--The Da Vinci Code

According to a recent survey the book, The Da Vinci Code, by Dan Brown was one of the most important works of the decade. This 2003 novel by Dan Brown resulted in millions of copies being sold, a movie as well and follow-up novels. Although not often thought of as great literature, it has made significant impact in the world.

Selling over 80 million copies this book has surpassed many other suspense-thrillers. The book has been translated into many languages and adapted into a major Hollywood film. The Da Vinci Code has created religious debate among many individuals. A video game was developed as well as various web-based programs. This book is probably the most imitated during the past decade.

Although there have been many big sellers during the last ten years, no other novel has had a greater commercial impact than this book. This year, everyone patiently waited for the latest follow up. The Lost Symbol sold more books on its first day than any other single book.

You can find the special illustrated edition of The Da Vinci Code along with other art books, art catalogs and magazine back issues at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.


www.nellasbooksandcollectibles.ecrater.com

Season For Art

A survey of 20 museums across the country revealed that most museums are experiencing a rise in attendance. According to a recent article this trend holds true for institutions requiring payment as well as those that offer free admission.

I was a little surprised to learn that not only has there been an increase in attendance during hard economic times, but the museums that have benefited the most are the contemporary art museums. It appears that contemporary art is currently a hot item at auction houses as well as at museums.

One of the museums that has benefited from this increase in attendance is the Chicago Museum of Art. It’s believed the increase in visitors at this museum is due to its location, recent expansion, many choosing to stay close to home and various other reasons.

This holiday season may be a great time to visit a local or museum that is not too far away.

www.nellasbooksandcollectibles.ecrater.com

Discovering Van Gogh

There has always been a great deal of interest and fascination with the life and work of master artist Vincent van Gogh. I recently had an opportunity to view a video on the behind-the-scene work being done at the Van Gogh Museum. Technical research is being done on the paintings and drawings of Vincent van Gogh.

The project begain in 2005 and seeks to find answers to how this self-taught artists acquired his knowledge. Van Gogh was known to experiment with various materials. Not only Van Gogh’s work is being studied but also his contemporaries.

The Van Gogh Museum should be congratulated for their efforts to unveil the mysteries of one of the greatest artist of all time. I find it amazing that we continue to discover new information about one of the great artist of the Post-Impressionist period.

More information on van Gogh and the research being done can be found on Art Babble.

You will find art books on Van Gogh and other artists, art catalogs, books and magazine back issues at Nella’s Books and Collectibles.

www.nellasbooksandcollectibles.ecrater.com

Sky-High Prices for Warhol

A recent article stated that one of Andy Warhol's first silk-screen prints sold at Sotheby's for an extraordinary amount. This silk-screen print was one of Warhols first. The item that sold was "200 One Dollar Bills". This item sold for about 43 million dollars.

What is remarkable about this purchase is not only the amount it sold for but what it also may mean for the U.S. art market. It is not unusual for Warhol's work to go for a large amount of money. I believe the record for a piece of his work for over 71 million dollars in 2007. Recently more expensive art work has not done well. Many are hoping that the art market is turning around.

You will find art books, art auction catalogs and magazine back issues at Nella's Books and Collectibles.

www.nellasbooksandcollectibles.ecrater.com