Oh, Shenandoah: Paintings of the Historic Valley and River

This book is remarkable for its comprehensive treatment of the history and culture of this storied region. I have never seen such a vast collection of artworks by a single artist depicting a single geographic area in a volume such as this. Bolstering the 264 plein-air paintings by Andrei Kushnir is the exceptional narrative produced by Jeffrey C. Everett, which gives the volume its contextual weight and is a singular achievement in tying together all the elements that have made the Shenandoah Valley an icon of our nation's productive strength and resiliency. Kushnir's astonishing breadth in subjects and his plein air aptitude capture the scenic beauty as well as the awkward reality of modern highway views. Kushnir's Shenandoah River compositions are magnificent, as are his more distant, broader views from elevated positions along the Blue Ridge. I spent an afternoon paging through these views in an effort to choose my favorites, and it was impossible to choose only a few.Jeffrey Everett's essays explain the unfolding of history and culture in this vital place from its very earliest beginnings to the present day. The essays are divided into two parts, The Natural Landscape, and The Cultural Landscape. His treatment is thorough, well researched and authoritative. Everett's work, as well as the essays of Mr. Rasmussen and Mr. Hofstra contribute so significantly to this book's value that it is curious, indeed, that the publisher did not put their names on the cover and instead chose to name Mr. Kushnir as the "author." The artist's contribution is essential to this work, but he is not the author by anyone's definition as far as I know. Publisher George Thompson has done a disservice to the public and to the writers by not giving credit, and notice, where it is traditionally due: on the front cover. If this work is ever reprinted, the publisher should correct this glaring omission. Even on the inside title page, Thompson calls Everett's work "historical vignettes," which they are surely not, as the text by Everett is substantial and in-depth, and takes up at least 66 pages in small type on large sheets.This book was supposed to be available during a lengthy show of more than 50 of these paintings at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley in Winchester in 2016. Unfortunately, publishing difficulties prevented this from happening. The show was magnificent, I traveled hours to see it, and as any art enthusiast knows, pictures in a book can never compare to seeing the paintings themselves well displayed. They were stunning and this was one of the most memorable shows I have ever viewed. The question looming large now, is, when will we get to see them again?Despite the publishing snafus, the book is well worth your investment of time and cost, especially if you have any attachment to the Shenandoah Valley. This book will serve as a lifelong testament of your fondness for the Valley and is a lasting souvenir and gift to yourself or to someone important to you. The volume is weighty, both literally and figuratively. It's 415 pages are printed on heavy glossy stock and all of the paintings are in color. The book is well designed and a pleasure to peruse. The paintings are delightful and arranged directionally north to south along the Valley's most loved byways. The narratives will help you understand and remember why the Shenandoah Valley has been a distinctive place and an important part of our history.

Loved this book. Born and raised in Shenandoah Valley and this book is a treasured addition to my library. Not only great paintings of the river and valley, but lots of history and interesting facts on this area also. So happy to be able to add this to my collection.

I bought this for my aunt for Christmas. She was born & raised in Harpers Ferry & the beautiful paintings in this book brought back so many wonderful memories for her.

beautiful book