Reference Done Right: Modern and Contemporary Art - Oxford Dictionary
Modern and Contemporary Art - Oxford Dictionary ($14.99) by Handmark, Inc. is the latest comprehensive subject specific dictionary that bears the illustrious name, Oxford. It carries a hefty price tag and has a big reputation to live up to.
When I think of Oxford I think first of the O.E.D. (Oxford English Dictionary), the closet thing our language has to a governing body. You know the one; your library likely had it on a pedestal, chained. It’s huge.
Some people worship religious texts; I bow at the shrine of the O.E.D. so I was dubious when I saw their moniker on an app.
Could Handmark possibly bring the same caliber product I expect on paper, when I see the name Oxford, to the App Store?
In a word, yes.
Being an art nut and volunteer docent, this modern and contemporary art dictionary was right up my alley. I was pleased to find it complete, concise, and that a single tap took me to other relevant entries.
I am not an art expert, just a devoted fan, but it’s clear to even a casual observer that this dictionary is comprehensive.
The GUI is neat and efficient. This is not an e-book, however, this is a serious reference work available on your mobile device.
If art is not your thing, Handmark and Oxford team up to offer comprehensive dictionaries of everything from art to zoology, and of course language. If you are a student in any discipline you should check out their ever-growing library.
Don’t expect bells and whistles. This app, like a proper dictionary, is text. But, it has a few features which make it superior to a paper version.
It’s easy to create a list of favorites, as I mentioned each article contains relevant links so instead of “seeing also” you only need to tap, and you can share information easily with integrated email, Facebook and Twitter posting.
What makes this a superlative dictionary is the search function. It allows for a fuzzy search. Essentially that means if you can’t spell Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, no worries, take your best guess, and you’ll find what you seek.
Some pictures in an art dictionary would be nice, but the name, pricing point, and GUI make it clear that picture books are not what Oxford or Handmark are selling.
However, if you are like me, something will pique your curiosity. After all, art is only one reflection of popular culture. A movement within it often transcends that world and pervades literature, film, even fashion.
So, if you have read all about Dada or Bauhaus as art movements and still want more, I suggest you download either Articles or Discover. Both are Wikipedia clients that present material neatly by subject. That will round out the learning experience.
But for hardcore reference, the Oxford series is as good as its name. Kudos to Handmark for bringing serious educational tools to iOS.
