Book description
The stunning, specially commissioned cover illustrations are one of the
great joys of the New Naturalist series, lending it a distinctive style
which has inspired nature enthusiasts for many decades.
The Collins New Naturalist series is the longest-running and arguably
the most influential natural history series in the world with over 100
volumes published in over 60 years. Throughout the years, the highly
characteristic dust jacket illustrations have become iconic, lifting the
books to a level of collectibility and increasing the level of
admiration for an already well-established and respected series.
With early cover illustrations prepared by Clifford and Rosemary Ellis,
later and more recent covers have been designed by Robert Gillmor.
Featuring prints of the awe-inspiring artwork of the New Naturalists,
the book will offer a unique insight into Gillmor's approach to each
subject matter and the intricate and creative way through which he has
brought his own distinctive style and craft of printmaking to the New
Naturalist series.
Marren explores the findings from the Ellis archive, which has thrown up
considerable information on how the old covers were developed, approved,
in some cases rejected, and then proofed.
The Art of the New Naturalists offers a fascinating insight into how the
creation of these eminent cover designs has developed and progressed and
will be essential reading for everyone interested in the frantic
workings behind the seemingly serene collection of artwork that is one
of Britain's iconic book series. 'My nature book of the year […].
Since they first appeared in 1945, the New Naturalists have grown into
the most famous and collectable series of nature books ever.'
Stephen Moss, Guardian
'A fascinating and detailed account of this small triumph of post-war
book production.'
Country Life Peter Marren is the author of two books in the New
Naturalist series, The New Naturalists and Nature Conservation, and is
the authority on the history and iconography of the series. He has
written numerous other books, and writes regularly for the Independent
and British Wildlife.
Robert Gillmor, a founder member and past president of the Society of
Wildlife Artists, is one of Britain's most influential wildlife
illustrators. He has been creating the New Naturalist cover artwork for
many years.
