William R. Cross, Author, Winslow Homer: American Passage

  Chair of the advisory board of the Yale Center for Faith and Culture

With beauty and drama that reflect the works themselves, this book showcases the large-scale creations—both built and unbuilt—of a great American sculptor. But it goes beyond that, making a powerful case for the continued importance, urgency and relevance of monuments in today's world. Van Alstine offers a thoughtful response to the sentiment of early 19th-century Speaker of the House Nathaniel Macon, who claimed, ‘Monuments are good for nothing.' As an artist deeply connected to the land, the sky, and all they encompass, Van Alstine inspires us to lift our eyes and hearts, guided by the better angels of our nature.

 

 

F. David Reif, Prof. Emeritus, Art Dept., University of Wyoming

 

This beautifully illustrated book showcases the impressive large-scale work of Adirondack-based sculptor John Van Alstine. With insightful autobiographical reflections by the artist and crisp commentary by journalist Tim Kane, it highlights Van Alstine's journey to develop a sculptural language rooted in the forces of nature and gravity. The narrative captures the tension between nature's vast power and the relentless grind of time, space, and human industry. A must-read for anyone seeking to understand this compelling and unavoidable drama.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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