This is something new for Urban Retro Lifestyle, book reviews. We have now started to sell books and magazines at Urban Retro and to bring a better insight into the books certain books will be reviewed. However not all books reviewed will be for sale in our store.

The first book review is of the new Bob Dob Painting Collection. Regular readers may know that I am a huge fan of Bod Dob’s art and the chance see some of his finest work compiled into a 44 page book was very exciting. The book is published by Murphy Design and the first thing you notice is the quality of the book. The pages are very thick with an art print feel and the colours are presented excellently giving each piece of art in the book a ‘true to life’ appeal.

Bob Dob has a very interesting background which I feel is reflected in his art. One of Bob Dob’s most popular painting, Punk Rock Blues, is a great example of how his life as a guitarist in a punk band has had an influence on his work.

The book starts with a typical Bob Dob portrait painting on the cover titled ‘Big Head’. It was these portrait paintings that got me hooked to Bob Dob’s art. The emotions and character he gets into these portraits is quite remarkable. A personal favourites of mine is ‘Air Head’ which is a simple yet excellent idea which most artists would struggle to execute correctly.

However you realise that the portrait skills of Bob Dob is only a small portion of his abilities. The paintings which put the characters in to a scenario really brings out the best of Bod Dobs imagination and ability.

I was curious to see what the book would reveal about Bob Dobs work and it does not disappoint. It is not only filled with paintings but also initial sketch ideas. Mid way through the book you are treated to how the painting ‘the laughing man’ evolved from a sketch, to a detailed sketch and finally into the finished painting. The details in each stage show much thought is gone into each piece. It is interesting to think what goes through Bod Dobs mind when he is working and why he feels he must make the small changes.

Something I noticed through out the book is that most pieces involve the main character drinking or smoking. I am not sure if this a reflection on Bob Dobs lifestyle or a reflection of the society these characters are supposed to be living in.

The highlight of the book for me is the Pinocchio painting which takes a childhood favourite of most adults and puts a witty twist into the story.

Each book is signed and numbered by Bob Dob and the books are very limited with only 400 Hard Covers and 800 Soft Covers.

A bit of good news is that this is the first volume meaning there will more volumes coming soon. Its hard to see how Bob Dob can improve but I look forward to seeing what is revealed in up coming volumes.

You can buy the Bob Dob Painting Collection Volume 1 in the Urban Retro Store.

You can read an alternative and excellet review at ektopia.