Nature's artist

An introduction to the Renaissance genius of Albrecht Durer. It focuses on Durer's studies of the natural world to show how the artist imbued the most ordinary of living things with reverence and emotion. A master graphic artist, Albrecht Durer (1471-1528) was arguably the most important artist of the Northern Renaissance. Although he was extremely influential as a printer, his drawings and paintings reveal a profound scientific curiosity and sensitivity to the world around him. This collection of sketches and watercolours features 34 animal and plant studies, including the masterpieces "Hare" and "Large Piece of Turf". Victoria Salley presents an essay exploring Durer's interest in nature and reproductions which should allow readers to appreciate the intricate beauty of Durer's work as well as his keen powers of observation - traits which continue to inspire and instruct artists today.