The Upset is published by Gestalten and I've read that all their art books are edited and designed by designers. It shows. The cover has a nice smooth canvas texture and the illustrations are printed on high quality art matte paper.

Having this book is like having your own contemporary art museum. There are established artists like Mark Ryden, who drew the cover, to exciting new talents. 95 artists contributed to the book. Each artist has a little written about them and there are a few interviews as well.

Painting is the medium of choice here. You won't see any digital works. The few categories of art here are Lowbrow, Gothic, Realism, Illustration, Character, Urban Art, Pattern and Expressionism. While many of the artists are associated with Lowbrow and Neo-Surrealism. Their take on art is one of modern perspective, drawing influences from all sorts of places. Their work in this book is timeless and a refreshing break from the multimedia commercial art scene.

The book might be pricey but it's a satisfying visual treat, great for illustrators and anyone into contemporary art.

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