Beginning in 1985 and continuing through five editions, Living with Art grew from strength to strength under the inspired authorship of Rita Gilbert. Her impressive knowledge lightly worn, her personal insights, and her engaging style have introduced thousands of readers to art, in the process starting not a few of them on a lifelong interest in the subject. Being asked to continue her work was an honor, initially thrilling, then by turns intimidating and humbling as a deepening acquaintance with the text increased my respect for how thoughtfully it was put together.

Luckily, it soon became clear that I have inherited not only a wonderful book but also a wonderful and vocal community of dedicated instructors. The suggestions and criticisms of those who reviewed the fifth edition were my constant companions in planning this revision. In large matters, they spoke in remarkable unison; in smaller matters they offered numerous intriguing ideas for artists, works, and topics that might be included. To all whose names are listed in the Acknowledgements section of this Preface, my thanks. I hope you enjoy finding your excellent advice reflected in these pages. E-mail has already brought lively and productive exchanges with several longtime users of this book, and I look forward to getting to know many more of you over the coming years as together we shape and reshape Living with Art to your needs.