14 THE  ART OBSERVER June 2007 All the artists featured in “A Colourful Canvas: Twelve Women Artists in the North West”have been inspired at one time or another by Manchester and the North West and I found this book an ideal way to grasp an understanding of the artistic and cultural elements of the region; a way to immerse myself in the culture in a way that may not have been possible otherwise. The book highlights the work and achievements of various artists - all of whom have received critical acclaim but some of whom may not yet have received the public recogni- tion they deserve. It is a well- constructed and exciting book that fills a well-needed niche in the art literature sector. Judy Rose and Wendy Levy offer the reader personal descriptions about the artists with relevant information and details on their backgrounds and influences that allow the reader to gain an understanding not only of the artists but of the inspiration and thoughts behind their work. The book draws together a diverse range of talents and genres yet the central theme of their location and inspiration links them together to create a full and vibrant picture of the northwest art scene and this strong sense of unity defines the book despite the variety of work that it includes. The book has an excellent balance of artistic techniques, commentary and observations of the work making it appealing and accessible for any reader whether read purely for pleasure or for reference. As Judy Rose and Wendy Levy demonstrate in this engaging and beautifully presented book, the northwest art community is truly a colourful canvas. Available to buy from Wendy J Levy Contemporary Art Gallery, Didsbury, priced £35 or £65 for the signed edition (signed by all 12 artists and authors). The book is also available to buy online at the gallery website: www.wendyjlevy-art.com Although this book was first published in December 2004 I have only just read it and there- fore feel the need to talk about it. Liam Spencer, Manchester’s renowned artist, is the deserving focus of the publication by Wendy J Levy Contemporary Art Ltd. Spencer’s work and career are clearly documented in this beautifully written and well-pre- sented book that combines book REVIEW stunning reproductions of some of his most famous paintings alongside a commentary of his progression and career so far. The book throws the reader into Spencer’s vivid world of colour and imagination allowing an insight into his influences and the inspiration behind many of his paintings. We are taken on a journey from his student days through his time in the studio overlooking Mancunian Way to his trip to America, starting with a brilliant introduction by Richard Kendall and followed up throughout the book by quotes and observations from various admirers and collectors. We are shown ‘Liam’s particular skill in seeing the special in the ordinary.’ This book is a must-have for any collector or admirer of Liam Spencer’s work, after all, he belongs to ‘that rarest of all tra- ditions - the tradition of good painting,’ as quoted by Bridget Riley, and what better reason could there be for devoting time to this truly original Northern artist.   ‘Liam Spencer - Painting from Life’ softback, limited to 900 numbered copies, £35. ‘Liam Spencer – Painting from Life’ hardback with hard sleeve, limited to 100 copies, each numbered and signed by the artist. Exclusively included with the book is a specially produced DVD showing an interview with the artist in his studio, together with a small limited edition print which is numbered and signed by the artist. £200 Both books are available from the publisher: Wendy J Levy Contemporary Art Ltd, 17 Warburton Street, Didsbury, Manchester M20 6WA, or online at the website: www.wendyjlevy-art.com “Liam Spencer - Painting from Life” By Judy Rose with an introduction by the art historian, Richard  Kendall Published by Wendy J Levy Contemporary Art Ltd “A Colourful Canvas: Twelve Women Artists in the North West” By Judy Rose and Wendy Levy with a Foreword by the art historian and artist, Michael  Howard Published by Wendy J Levy Contemporary Art Ltd “When Valette died in 1942, a short tribute was published in his memory… The writer concludes his obituary with the conviction that ‘the future will do him justice’. However, more than sixty years after Valette’s death and the publication of that article, little has changed in France in terms of the reputation of the great artist.” Cécilia Lyon seeks to finally give this artist the recognition he deserves in her book, “Adolphe Valette”. She has researched extensively for four years, both in the UK and in France, to unearth a collection of previ- ously unknown information, documents and forgotten works. The result is a fascinating picture of Valette’s life, from the people around him, to the cities he loved, lived and worked in. Lyon leads us through his life on a journey of learning, teaching, art, passion and ultimately sad- ness and rest accompanied by over 100 beautiful illustrations. She has tried to fill in as many of the blanks about Valette’s life as possible, she includes various theories about the enigmas of his life - why he chose Bordeaux over Paris and Manchester over London. It is impossible to ignore the impact Valette had on Manchester, many will be familiar with the selection of his work displayed at the Manchester Art Gallery. The description given by his most famous student, L.S. Lowry, shows the importance of this artist and teacher, ‘I owe so much to him, for it was he who first showed me the great masters… He was a real teacher, a dedicated teacher. There aren’t any more.’ Lyon has created a faithful and personal portrayal of this much overlooked artist who ‘represented the beauty, tumult and vigour of Manchester.’ ‘Adolphe Valette’ by Cécilia Lyon is published by Phillimore and Co LTD, priced £35. It can be purchased from the Wendy Levy Gallery in Didsbury and from selected bookshops. “Adolphe Valette” By  Cecilia  Lyon By Kelly Moralee