49 pages • 1 hour read
Molly BangPicture This: How Pictures Work
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1991A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Picture This: How Pictures Work by Molly Bang, an acclaimed illustrator, writer, and educator, explores the principles of picture composition and visual perception, illustrating how basic elements like shapes and colors evoke emotional responses. Using abstract shapes, Bang analyzes the emotional language of visuals, employing "Little Red Riding Hood" as a case study and emphasizing context, visual hierarchy, and psychological associations to craft emotionally resonant images.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Picture This by Molly Bang is widely praised for its insightful exploration of visual literacy and picture composition, making complex concepts accessible. Readers appreciate the clear, engaging explanations and useful examples. However, some find the book too simplistic or repetitive. Overall, it's a valuable resource for both novices and seasoned artists.
Who Should Read Picture This?
A reader who would enjoy Picture This by Molly Bang is someone interested in visual storytelling, art, and design principles. Comparable books include Scott McCloud's Understanding Comics and Betty Edwards's Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain. This book appeals to both artists and those curious about how images convey meaning and emotion.