John Berger- Ways Of Seeing

Ways Of Seeing by John Berger has always been one of my favourite books as it holds a high status for artistic and literal influential qualities. I first read Berger's book adaptation 3 years ago after discovering his BBC television series, broadcasted in 1972 as part of a series. I have always held that book in high regard as one of the stepping stones that influenced me to look more deeply into art and how I view particular pieces of artwork.

The BBC television series 'Ways of seeing' was widely embraced by the British public, this popularity prompted the publication of the book adaptation. Personally, I prefer the book as I feel it is easier to understand and allows you to acknowledge the information and perspectives written by Berger instead of listening to them through an audio format. You get to witness and judge the artwork through imagery and text. Although the television series does have its own perks as it allows you to witness each piece of work he speaks about it allowing mental stimulation to be processed in full function.

Berger did not focus on one type of art within his research, he incorporated photography, oil paintings  and contemporary art altogether in order to be non exclusive to the public so there was something for everyone no matter their interest. My favourite passage from the book was the explanation of how female nudes are conventionalised. He focuses on how mirrors were often incorporated into nude paintings by the artist to involve the spectators into the piece, this happened by making the nude figure join these spectators viewing her own body. This was a strong symbol of vanity.