A Guitarmaker's Canvas: The Inlay Art of Grit Laskin

Rating:
Summary: An exquisite gift
Review: Over the years, Grit Laskin has made impressive contributions to the craft of inlay and of guitarmaking. In doing so, he has elevated both to the level of art. His beautiful new book is an in depth perspective on his art. One of the most respected masters in the field, Laskin, is a recipient of Canada's prestigious Saidye Bronfman Award for Excellence In The Crafts and a founder of Association of Stringed Instrument Artisans (ASIA). His book, which features a stunning collection of photos of his work, is another gift to the art.

Laskin begins with a brief biographical sketch which is low keyed, the opening section included photos of Laskin's first basement shop and subsequent modest facilities. We also learn about the artists approach to guitar construction as separate from the inlay process and to the business of guitarmaking. Much of this first section focuses on the collaborative web independent guitarmaking scene of Toronto in the 70's and 80's and the synergy between Laskin, Larrivée and De Jonge and other.

There is also a well done section about the history of inlay and a helpful section on his method for drawing, cutting and installing his inlays. This later section has a brief but effective overview of the tools and techniques and includes excellent photos illustrations. In it, Laskin includes valuable discussions about the role of reconstructed stone and ablam as part of his palette of materials.

The final two thirds of this book is a collection of exquisite photographs of Grit's guitars taken by Brian Pickell. These are accompanied by comments on each work from the author/artist. Through these words and pictures we are given a glimpse into the creative process. Written in a conversational tone this is Laskin's invitation to the reader to eaves drop on the some of the thought processes that led up to each design.

All this being said, Laskin's art, rendered in shell, stone, and wood speaks eloquently for itself. Pickell's photos capture the genius of both the breathtaking overall designs and the super-realistic details which cause these works to soar. This book offers the reader a window into the creative process. Think of it as this exquisite stained glass window with a clear center piece through which we view the work of a master artist.