A remarkably visual writer Charles Dickens (1812-1870) emerged from a tradition where illustrations formed a significant part of both serial & book publishing. At the centenary of his birth Dickens & the Artists" explores the novelists artistic opinions & connections. His tastes are manifest in his novels his magazine Household Words & his journalism. Dickens engaged with the art of the Old Masters commenting forthrightly on the latest changes at the National Gallery & recording his visits to museums during his tours of Europe. As well as exploring Dickens own views the distinguished contributors reveal his influence on Victorian artists. He had long & close friendships with some of the leading artists of his time including Clarkson Stanfield Daniel Maclise Frank Stone & William Powell Frith. These & other artists depicted scenes from his novels or drew inspiration from his subjects & characterizations that continue to influence our image of Dickensian England today."