The Primacy of Drawing
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The Primacy of Drawing
A definitive and comprehensive study of drawing, now entirely revised.
A thoroughly revised edition of this definitive book, the most comprehensive study of drawing ever published
A thoroughly revised edition of this definitive book, the most comprehensive study of drawing ever published.
Drawing has long been central to art making, yet its role has faced increasing scrutiny in recent decades. Admiration for readymades, new technologies, and performance has shifted focus away from traditional studies and sketches.
In this new, completely revised edition of The Primacy of Drawing, renowned artist and educator Deanna Petherbridge argues for the centrality of drawing in art and explores its evolving significance, from ancient myths to contemporary practices. She examines how artists encode themes such as satire, sexuality, and play.
Through revealing comparisons of historical and modern works, this richly illustrated resource offers new insights into emergent drawing practices, theories, and ideasβredefining how we understand and engage with the medium of drawing today.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780500026083
Publisher: Thames & Hudson Ltd
Format: Hardback
Date Published: 08 January 2026
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Thames & Hudson Ltd
Illustration: 253 Illustrations, color
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Width: 245.0mm
Height: 295.0mm
Weight: 2640g
Pages: 400
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About the Author
Deanna Petherbridge (1939-2024) was a writer, artist, curator and former Professor of Drawing at the Royal College of Art, London, where she launched the Centre for Drawing Research and established the UK's first doctoral programme in drawing. She was appointed a CBE for services to drawing and teaching in 1996, awarded a Fellowship of the Royal College of Art in 1997 and appointed an Honorary Fellow of the Warburg Institute in 2019.
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