Though comparatively short, it is no once-over-lightly chronicle full of
insignificant names and dates. It brilliantly achieves its principal
aim: to provide readers with a compact but broad and well rounded
conception of the progress of the fine arts in America from ca. 1670 to
the present day. . . . It is a fascinating book, full of new vistas; it
has all the earmarks of an instant classic.--American Artist
[Taylor] describes changing definitions of art as much as he describes
art itself, and he shows how the shifting forms of patronage affected
the forms of art. He analyzes artists' associations . . . and he shows
how museums and schools have expanded the audience for art. In short, he
places artists and their work in cultural context. This treatment of the
social history of art is the most original and intriguing aspect of
Taylor's sketch.--Journal of American History
This is a brilliantly subtle book. It builds with one insight after
another, and suddenly the reader finds that a whole new way of looking
at American art is being proposed. . . . After decades of thinking and
looking and teaching, Dr. Taylor has written it all down. This work will
become a classic interpretation almost overnight.--Peter Marzio,
director, Corcoran Gallery of Art
Interest in American art is unlikely to abate. . . . Mr. Taylor's short
book is an invaluable guide through this activity and to its
traditions.--Neil Harris, Wall Street Journal