{"product_id":"ways-of-seeing","title":"Ways of Seeing","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased on the groundbreaking BBC television series, \u003cem\u003eWays of Seeing\u003c\/em\u003e by John Berger is an innovative and compelling examination of how we perceive visual art. Published as part of the celebrated Penguin on Design series in Penguin Modern Classics, this book delves into the intricate relationships between art, society, and individuals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe opening premise, \"Seeing comes before words. The child looks and recognizes before it can speak,\" sets the stage for Berger’s profound exploration. He argues that seeing is foundational to our understanding of the world around us; it precedes linguistic expression and remains the primary mode through which we engage with our surroundings. While words can describe our environment, they can never replace the direct experience of seeing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eWays of Seeing\u003c\/em\u003e is lauded as one of the most thought-provoking and influential texts on art. First published in 1972, Berger's eloquent narrative was inspired by the BBC television series of the same name. The Sunday Times critic praised it as \"an eye-opener in more ways than one,\" noting how Berger’s perspective on viewing paintings can fundamentally alter the way one perceives visual artworks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBerger’s analysis is not limited to technical aspects of art but extends to broader socio-political implications, challenging traditional notions and prompting readers to reconsider their preconceived notions. He discusses the power dynamics inherent in the act of seeing and how cultural context shapes our interpretation of visual imagery. With incisive commentary and accessible language, Berger makes art criticism approachable for a wide audience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf \u003cem\u003eWays of Seeing\u003c\/em\u003e sparks your interest, you might also enjoy Susan Sontag's \u003cem\u003eOn Photography\u003c\/em\u003e, another insightful work available in Penguin Modern Classics. Both books offer profound reflections on visual culture and its impact on our understanding of the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House Distribution","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45692552741100,"sku":"9780141035796","price":30.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780141035796.jpg?v=1725566170","url":"https:\/\/bookhero.live\/products\/ways-of-seeing","provider":"Book Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}