Book cover of Before the Animation Begins: The Art and Lives of Disney Inspirational Artists

Book description

Born from daydreams, meditations on color, character and form, and sheer inventiveness, Disney's pioneering animated films begin in the imagination of the "inspirational sketch" artist. Allowed to work with an unprecedented degree of creative freedom, these talented painters, designers, and illustrators attempt to conjure the "look" of a film -…

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Why read it?

1 author picked Before the Animation Begins as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I have always been fascinated by the artists who created Disney’s shorts and animated features. I was also looking for a book showcasing pre-production artwork I had never seen before.

John Canemaker’s seminal book, which explores the lives and careers of Disney’s “concept artists,” made my dreams come true. It is a volume that is both an absolute delight to read (Canemaker is one of the very best writers alive) and a feast for the eyes. This is the book that inspired me to write my own art books.

From Didier's list on Disney history.

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Book cover of Aggressor

Aggressor by FX Holden,

It is April 1st, 2038. Day 60 of China's blockade of the rebel island of Taiwan.

The US government has agreed to provide Taiwan with a weapons system so advanced that it can disrupt the balance of power in the region. But what pilot would be crazy enough to run…

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