Secret Art Powers
By Jo Randerson
Review by Claudia
I recommend this book to anyone working in the arts, or anyone who wants to make art, especially those who need to hear some encouragement. Everyone can be an artist! Jo Randerson unravels lessons learned from a career in the arts and spells out why art is so vital for a good life. The book is broken into six parts, each focusing on a different secret art power: lies, fluidity, multiplicity, wrong, live and imagination. Randerson argues the importance of each power, but argues is a strong word. This book feels more like a delightful exploration of thought and performance which detours through several kaleidoscopes, wind-chimes and sausage makers all at once. If you have ever wanted a book that draws together all the reasons why art is important – especially here in Aotearoa – here it is! And it’s written in an approachable, open way that keeps the reader entertained. Plus, there are drawings in the margins (which encourages the reader to draw there too). I once saw Jo Randerson, live on stage, suddenly squeeze several bananas until they burst from their skins. These chapters will do that to your brain. Suddenly, my overwhelming unfinished art projects feel exciting again, and taking time to dream and imagine feels important again. What joy and fun!
