Medals, Medallions, and Reliefs

Avard T. Fairbanks created many dozens of medals, medallions and reliefs during his long career. This book illustrates the diversity of his work, and gives some instructional information about them. An idealistic and comprehensive definition of Art is: An Endeavor Towards Perfection. The purpose of all fine arts is a means of communication, and the finer the art, the more effective is the communication. The purpose is to render a message, an impression, or a mood to an observer and to the observing public. Relief sculpture, fortunately offers better opportunities to present messages and transmit concepts more readily about persons, events, or emotions than free standing statuary, because there is usually a printed message or title. It can express moments in history or individual accomplishments. In addition, there is an opportunity to compose a story or explain an event with figures, symbols or by lettered words in the background or along the composition's borders. More than 150 photos and illustrations.