Painting, drawing and art manuals Books
The Crowood Press Ltd Painting the Nude in Oils
Book SynopsisThe nude has inspired artists for centuries and continues to inspire us today. Alongside a historical study of the nude in painting, this book introduces oil paint and gives advice on techniques when using this challenging and rewarding medium. Capturing the beauty of form and the delicate colours of the figure, it celebrates the powerful images that examine human relationships, personality and psychology. Some of the topics included in this book are instructions on materials, the colour palette and stretching your own canvas; the practicalities of working with a model in the studio; colour-mixing exercises that explore colour relationships and temperature, and finally step-by-step examples that demonstrate the progression of a painting.
£16.14
Prestel Spanish Painting: From the Golden Age to
Book SynopsisBeautifully packaged, this lavish volume is certain to become the definitive study of one of the most significant periods in European art history. Coinciding with the rise of the Habsburg dynasty and the expansion of the Spanish Empire, the Spanish Golden Age created a fertile environment for cultural and scientific discovery. Some of the country's greatest music, literature, and architecture was created in the period between the mid-sixteenth and seventeenth centuries-and painting was no exception. Rich in illustrations and fascinating texts, this overview takes a thematic and chronological approach to the era and its later influences. Opening with Spain's emergence as a European power, it explores how developments such as the construction of El Escorial ushered in a new era for painting; how the cities of Madrid, Toledo, and Seville developed as centers of intellectual, political, and artistic activity; and how the Baroque period gave way to the Rococo after the collapse of the Habsburg empire. Every major painter of the period is included here, with 250 gloriously reproduced works by El Greco, Ribera, Vela zquez, Zurbara n, Murillo, Ribalta, Goya, and dozens more. A final chapter reveals how Spanish painters of the twentieth century, such as Picasso and Dali , were shaped by their Golden Age forebears.
£74.25
Adams Media Corporation Tokyo: A Color-Your-Own Travel Journal
Book SynopsisColor your way around Tokyo with this coloring-book-meets-travel-journal featuring 30 expertly curated sites to learn about, color, and record so you can experience the city whether you’re already there, planning a trip, or dreaming about your next adventure. Grab your pen and colored pencils—and get ready to travel the world! Whether your flights are booked or you’ll only be traveling in your mind, Tokyo takes you on an interactive, colorful tour of Japan’s capital city. This travel journal features 30 sites in Tokyo to discover—from the bucket-list worthy must-sees like the Senso-ji Temple and the Imperial Palace to places to shop in the Ginza District and explore in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Learn about each landmark with fascinating histories, fun facts, and travel tips. Accompanying the journal pages allow space to record, plan, or imagine your dream vacation. Plus, all 30 landmarks feature beautifully rendered coloring pages to shade in while taking in the sites.Tokyo is the perfect airplane take-along or gift for those dreaming about exploring Japan.Trade Review"A whole new take on travel guidebooks...and a great gift." —Forbes
£9.49
Quarto Publishing PLC Mindfulness in Drawing
Book SynopsisMindfulness in Drawing explores how the simple act of putting pen to paper creates a deeper connection between ourselves and the world around us. Through mindful creative exercises, personal anecdote and a fresh outlook on perception, flow and instinct, this book reveals how doodlers and artists at any level in their craft can discover the mindful joys of drawing. Table of ContentsContents Introduction Chapter One Just Drawing Chapter Two Still Life Chapter Three Landscapes & Cityscapes Chapter Four Portraiture & Life Drawing Chapter Five Coming Full Circle Endnotes Further Inspiration The Mindfulness Series Index Acknowledgements
£11.69
Tuttle Publishing Foolproof Sketching Painting Techniques for
Book SynopsisAn inspiring guide to sketching and painting the world around you!Packed with practical tips and advice, this book shows you how to fill your sketchbook or watercolor pad with a variety of everyday items that catch your eye, such as:Kitchen items like cups, teapots and silverwareToys like Rubik's Cubes and model carsTea sandwiches and roll cakesColorful bottles and containersHousehold items like umbrellas, bottles and candlesClothing and acessories including shirts, hats and umbrellasAnd so much more! Author Tomoko Kuramae provides clear step-by-step instructions on the proportions and perspective of basic objects and clearly explains how to draw dozens of items based on cubes, cylinders and flat shapes from a variety of angles. She then shows you how to bring your finished sketches alive with the use of brilliant transparent watercolors.Trade Review"…this is an eminently usable manual that will appeal to budding cartoonists and those looking to add 3D to their work." --Library Journal
£15.29
Arcturus Publishing Ltd The Kew Gardens Fabulous Flowers Colouring Book
Book SynopsisImmerse yourself in the wonderful world of plants with this amazing selection of colouring images, taken from the Roxburgh Collection that forms part of the archives of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. From elegant waterlilies to intricate climbing plants and bright blooms, this colouring book includes an exquisite range of elegant flora and fauna taken from the 18th century Roxburgh Collection. These classic illustrations perfectly capture the traditional botanical art style of the time, with their vibrant colours and wonderful attention to detail. Each double-page spread has a black-and-white line drawing to colour and the original full-colour artwork beside it for reference.Features:• Thick, high-quality paper to prevent bleed-through • A key of full-colour, thumbnail images to preview the designs • Full-page prints of original full-colour artwork to use or display This book is beautifully presented with gold foil accents,
£9.49
Tuttle Publishing How to Create Manga: Drawing Facial Expressions:
Book SynopsisThis book shows you how to accurately render human faces and emotions to create complex characters and add compelling immediacy to your work.The ability to draw realistic and powerful facial expressions is essential for every manga artist. All artists will tell you that human faces are the most important and challenging element of any drawing. How to Create Manga: Drawing Facial Expressions is an essential resource for artists who want to bring their skills to the next level.Thirteen professional Japanese artists have contributed their expertise to this book, which contains 1,250 drawings, with several detailed tips and comments on every drawing. It includes a comprehensive opening section on all the basic expressions budding manga artists need to master. Sections dedicated to detailed emotions and playing up the intensity and drama of more animated facial expressions follow.Tuttle's How to Create Manga series guides users through the process of reaching a professional-looking final drawing through actual sketch progressions, practical tips and common missteps to avoid. Other books in the series include How to Create Manga: Drawing the Human Body, How to Create Manga: Drawing Clothing and Accessories and How to Create Manga: Drawing Action Scenes and Characters.Trade Review"…richly designed books that SHOW you how to refine and perfect your drawings so you actually improve…if you're (or someone you know is) looking to up your game and improve your art, they've made it super easy to assemble a super helpful library." --The Roarbots
£14.39
Quarto Publishing Group USA Inc Draw Like an Artist: 100 Fantasy Creatures and
Book SynopsisFeaturing more than 600 sketches depicting a vast array of fantastic beasts and beings, Draw Like an Artist: 100 Fantasy Creatures and Characters is a must-have visual reference for student and aspiring artists, illustrators, and animators for fantasy, gaming, and augmented or virtual reality—anyone who’s seeking to improve their realistic drawing skills and create compelling mythological marvels. This contemporary step-by-step guidebook demonstrates fundamental art concepts like proportion, anatomy, and spatial relationships as you learn to draw a full range of amazing life forms—including unicorns, mermaids, dragons, vampires, and zombies—all shown from a variety of perspectives. Each set of illustrations takes you from beginning sketch lines to a finished drawing. Author Brynn Metheney’s classic drawing style will make this a go-to sourcebook for years to come. Learn how to: Establish basic shapes and symmetry Articulate lines for body shapes, forms, and shading Add defining details Draw Like an Artist: 100 Fantasy Creatures and Characters is a library essential for any artist who’s interested in learning how to draw these richly imagined and visually and culturally influential legendary beings. The books in the Draw Like an Artist series are richly visual references for learning how to draw classic subjects realistically through hundreds of step-by-step images created by expert artists and illustrators.Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION How to Use This Book Tips for Pencil Work SECTION 1: CREATURES Gryphon Unicorn Phoenix Pegasus Hydra Chimera Sea Serpent Cerberus Hippogriff Kraken Capricorn Leviathan Manticore Fenrir Tarasque Questing Beast Monoceros Basilisk Salamander Cockatrice Wyvern Kelpie Afanc Phooka Western Dragon Eastern Dragon Dilong Yeti Barghest Jersey Devil Flying Monkey Jackalope Bigfoot Cipactli Namazu Ammit Capcaun Kumiho Nue Phaya Pixiu Yale Kaiju Chupacabra Dobhar Chu SECTION 2: CHARACTERS Cyclops Minotaur Medusa Cacus Centaur Faun Wood Nymph Water Nymph Mermaid Nixie Siren Harpie Angel Demon Genie Sorcerer Dwarf Elf Mothman Fairy Pixie Sprite Mountain Troll Leprechaun Imp Hobbit Gnome Brownie Giant Ogre Kobold Werewolf Vampire Banshee Zombie Ghost Mummy Ghoul Orc Hobgoblin Wraith Dokkaebi Goblin Tengu Kappa SECTION 3: ORIGINAL CREATURE & CHARACTER DESIGNS Giant Horned Toad Golden Serpent Riverside Pincher Lava Swimmer Rock Eater Tree Kit Silverfish Goulodon Sky Deer Arothi Acknowledgments About the Author
£13.49
Quarto Publishing Group USA Inc Draw 62 Animals and Make Them Happy: Step-by-Step
Book SynopsisWith Draw 62 Animals and Make Them Happy, illustrator Terry Runyan shows you how to draw 62 amusing animals—and animals in silly situations—by following her easy step-by-step instructions. On the left-hand page, follow the steps for drawing each subject, from simple shapes to identifying marks. On the right-hand page, you’ll find several other clever options for varying animals by changing the view, the posture, accessories, or expression. Grab your pen and use the open spaces throughout the book to create your own versions and variations. Whether you’re drawing a sidesplitting pooch, a comical cat, or a facetious fox, with Draw 62 Animals and Make Them Happy you’re sure to enjoy learning how to bring them to life! Fresh, modern, and with a dash of clever humor, the Draw 62 series from Quarry Books is the most entertaining way to practice your illustration and expand your imagination. Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION GUINEA PIG WALRUS CHAMELEON SPOTTED DOG MOUNTAIN GOAT HERMIT CRAB IGUANA FRUIT BAT LION BACKYARD BIRD FERRET BUTTERFLY SIFAKA LEMUR ZEBRA BEAVER FISH ALLIGATOR MANED WOLF PIGEON YAK DOLPHIN FROG RACCOON COZY CAT POLAR BEAR TASMANIAN DEVIL RAM BUNNY SPIDER CHEETAH ANTEATER ORANGUTAN IMPALA CRAB MONGOOSE NEWT PARROT WILD DOG HORSE BINTURONG LIZARD DESIGNER DOG MONKEY HAMSTER LUNA MOTH BUSH BABY MOOSE SPOTTED GENET COW SNAKE EMU NUMBAT OKAPI BUSY CAT HOOPOE BIRD PECCARY FENNEC FOX ASIAN BLACK BEAR PORCUPINE LYNX RHINO LONG-EARED JERBOA ABOUT THE AUTHOR
£13.49
HarperCollins Publishers How to Draw a Dinosaur
Book SynopsisBig Cat Phonics for Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised has been developed in collaboration with Wandle Learning Trust and Little Sutton Primary School. It comprises classroom resources to support the SSP programme and a range of phonic readers that together provide a consistent and highly effective approach to teaching phonics.
£8.59
HarperCollins Publishers Art in the Park
Book SynopsisBig Cat Phonics for Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised has been developed in collaboration with Wandle Learning Trust and Little Sutton Primary School. It comprises classroom resources to support the SSP programme and a range of phonic readers that together provide a consistent and highly effective approach to teaching phonics.Art is all around us, we just need to know where to look! Let this non-fiction book bring out the artist in you, using supplies found right outside your doorstep.
£7.66
Dorling Kindersley Ltd Manga Drawing School
Book SynopsisSchool is now in session! Learn the art of drawing manga with YouTube sensation and manga expert Mei Yu. In Manga Drawing School, Mei guides you through every artwork step by step, from drawing simple faces and hairstyles to striking poses and action-packed fantasy scenes. You''ll discover over 50 lessons that will help you master the skills you need to create manga characters and scenes that are packed with personality. Starting with the basics from drawing the right lines and layering colour to storyboarding and using speech bubbles you''ll build your skills chapter by chapter with lessons on expressions, hands and feet, outfits, and even fantasy characters. Try your hand at different manga styles including chibi, shonen, and chibi art, and take your art to the next level with Mei''s tips and masterclasses. With Mei''s help and encouragement, you''ll create characters that are packed with personality, whatever your age or skill level. So, what are you waiting for? Let''s get started!
£21.25
Yale University Press On Color
Book SynopsisTrade Review“Sparkling and informative.”—Meghan Cox Gurdon, Wall Street Journal (Holiday Gift Book selection)“A great addition to the collection of anyone who is, to some degree, passionate about color.”—Angelica Frey, Hyperallergic“[A] scholarly yet highly entertaining book.”—Natalie Angier, New York Times“On Color pays tribute to everyday visual wonders so often taken for granted, and enriches our perception by emphasizing just how strange the history of seeing in colour can be.” —Eric Bulson, Times Literary SupplementWinner of the Outstanding Academic Title for 2018 award sponsored by Choice“Here is a subtle and imaginative insight into the slippery phenomenon we call colour – and how variously we perceive and emblemise it: a wise and fascinating study.”—Colin Thubron"Like the best works of cultural criticism, On Color changes how we see the world. I mean that quite literally. After reading this brilliant book, the mundane appears sharper, richer, and more meaningful."—James Shapiro, author of 1599: A Year in the Life of William Shakespeare“This lively, erudite, and far-reaching introduction to the poetics of color combines anecdotal art history with cultural and literary studies to illustrate a fundamental truth: that color is relational as well as subjective. This entertaining and humane book effortlessly deepens our engagement with the visual world.”—David Salle“On Color is a deliciously readable, gloriously illumined work of meditation and exploration, written in high resolution.”—Jay Parini, author of The Last Station and Empire of Self: A Life of Gore Vidal
£16.99
Hachette Books Half Hour of Pencil Power
Book SynopsisTap into the powerfully positive impact of drawing for the whole family with 25 drawing sessions! In March 2020, Mark Kistler received a call that his son's school was going virtual for the remainder of the school year. He began holding daily livestreams, leading half hour drawing sessions for what became hundreds of thousands of kids over two months, giving families a much-needed break from the chaos of the pandemic. Now, Mark brings these stress-relieving, creative outlets to life in 25 original lessons, including: Space Kitty! Dino Ride Parachuting Penguin Singing Shark Ninja Banana—and more! Harnessing the life inspiring and transformative power of the visual arts, Half Hour of Pencil Power brings together parents, educators, and the kids they care for with step-by-step drawing lessons, all of which can be done in a half hour or less. Drawing will help your kid have fun, decrease loneline
£13.49
WW Norton & Co Expressive Anatomy for Comics and Narrative
Book SynopsisThe final volume of Will Eisner’s celebrated instructional trilogy explores the critical principle of body grammar in comics storytelling.
£18.99
Dover Publications Inc. Mystical Mandala Coloring Book Dover Design
Book SynopsisAn ancient form of meditative art, mandalas are complex circular designs that draw the eye toward their centers. This collection offers 30 images to captivate colourists of all ages.
£5.62
Anness Publishing The Peaceful Pencil Colouring Meditation 75
Book SynopsisTake time to relax with this beautiful pocket-sized book of designs to color in.
£6.23
Chartwell Books Castlecore Coloring Book
£7.59
Tuttle Publishing Japanese Ink Painting
Book SynopsisIn this text, Saito discusses brushes, inks and other tools unique to Japanese ink painting, as well as the correct way to create different brush strokes. Lessons are also included on the "Four Gentlemen" - orchid, bamboo, cherry blossom and chrysanthemum flower.Trade Review"…designed for the beginner or amateur who can by himself learn and enjoy this technique as a hobby…well worth the money." --The Decorator"…illustrated step-by-step lessons are compact and clear…recommended." --Library Journal"…invaluable for understanding Oriental painting and the actual technique to be enjoyed as a hobby or used as a supplementary skill integrated with the professional's vocabulary." --American Artist
£13.49
John Wiley & Sons Inc Drawing For Dummies
Book SynopsisTable of ContentsIntroduction 1 Part 1: Discovering What It Takes to Draw 5 Chapter 1: Gearing Up to Start (and Continue) Drawing 7 Chapter 2: A New Kind of Seeing: Getting Familiar with the Artist’s Perspective 19 Chapter 3: Gathering What You Need to Get Started 37 Chapter 4: Working through the Developmental Stages of Drawing 63 Part 2: Developing Basic Skills 77 Chapter 5: Planning Your Drawings 79 Chapter 6: Seeing and Drawing Lines and Shapes 107 Chapter 7: Exploring the Third Dimension 131 Chapter 8: Adding Life to Your Drawings with Shading 165 Chapter 9: Identifying and Rendering Textures 193 Part 3: Experimenting with Subject Matter 207 Chapter 10: Making Meaningful Still Life Drawings 209 Chapter 11: Representing the Natural World in Your Drawings 225 Chapter 12: Bringing Animals to Life on Paper 251 Chapter 13: Drawing People 275 Part 4: The Part of Tens 305 Chapter 14: Ten Tips for Drawing Cartoons 307 Chapter 15: Ten Ways to Grow as an Artist 315 Chapter 16: Answering Ten Common Copyright Questions 325 Index 331
£17.09
Arcturus Publishing Ltd The Birds Colouring Book
Book SynopsisThis delightful colouring book includes spectacular bird illustrations based on the artwork of Audubon and other classic ornithology illustrators, presented in an attractive hardback gift edition with patterened endpapers. Whether you are a bird-lover, an artist, or both, this delightful colouring book is sure to please. It features over 70 classic full-colour ornithology illustrations from the likes of John James Audubon, John T Bowen and John Gerrard Keulemans to use as reference, placed beside black and white line drawings ready for the addition of colour. Included here are bright songbirds and majestic birds of prey, as well as favourites such as the jewel-like kingfisher and the flamboyant flamingo. Their delicate, vivid plumage makes birds ideal subject matter for developing colour technique and rendering those illustrations is guaranteed to provide hours of pleasure. An index of birds is included, helping you identify each bird and find yo
£9.49
Arcturus Publishing Ltd Happiness Colouring Book
Book SynopsisFrom the olive branch to the white poppy, symbols of peace and love have always been around us. This colouring book invites artists to focus on these life-enhancing concepts while polishing their artistic skills and simply having some creative fun.• Includes 45 designs• Printed on thick, high-quality paper• The images appear on single-sided pages to prevent bleed-throughABOUT THE SERIES: The bestselling Arcturus Creative Colouring series brings together delightful colouring books designed to relax the mind and inspire creativity. Printed on thick, high-quality paper, these bold and beautiful artworks present a wonderful colouring challenge.
£7.59
Arcturus Publishing The Fairies A to Z Colouring Book
Book SynopsisFluttering fairies adorn this beautiful A-Z colouring book, beautifully designed so you can make your own illustrated alphabet, enchanted by magical motifs. With more than 52 images to colour in, there is much to enjoy in the pages within. Full-page letter illustrations appear in both upper and lower case, meaning you have two enchanting choices for each letter. So settle down with your colouring pens or pencils, and float away to fairyland as you complete these delightful scenes. • Includes 52 designs • Printed on thick, high-quality paper • The images appear on single-sided pages to prevent bleed-through ABOUT THE SERIES: The bestselling Arcturus Creative Colouring series brings together delightful colouring books designed to relax the mind and inspire creativity. Printed on thick, high-quality paper, these bold and beautiful artworks present a wonderful colouring challenge.
£7.59
Arcturus Publishing Stranger Worlds Colouring Book
Book SynopsisEncounter terrifying monsters and otherworldly creatures in the Stanger Worlds Colouring Book, inspired by iconic works of sci-fi horror film and literature.Grab your putrid purples and slime greens and bring these incredible creations to life with colour. Inside you will find over 40 designs inspired by the likes of sci-fi master H. P. Lovecraft as well as more modern filmic creators of sci-fi horror such as John Carpenter and Wes Craven. You''ll find worlds where everything is familiar yet distorted and different. There are entire metropolises menaced by giant hands or a massive moth-like creature, a skeletal scarecrow and armed with giant, writhing tentacles. Venture in with care but be afraid, very afraid. A host of terrifying images await...ABOUT THE SERIES: The Arcturus Horror Colouring series brings together a selection of spectacular artworks, inspired by classic horror and fantasy. Terrifying phantoms and otherworldly creatures ab
£7.59
Arcturus Publishing Ltd The Camper Van Colouring Book
Book SynopsisPack up your iconic VW camper van and set out for the open road in this delightful colouring book, featuring over 45 designs of travelling adventures. The camper van, ideally a 1960s VW version, painted brightly, has become an aspirational holiday icon. You can take your bed along, cook en route and park up almost anywhere you like. This delightful colouring book is inspired by ''van life'' adventures, with images of travel and relaxation from all over the world. From beachy shores to mountain ranges, this colouring book includes a wonderful array of sites and scenes to fill with colour. • Includes 45 designs • Printed on thick, high-quality paper • The images appear on single-sided pages to prevent bleed-through • Suitable for pencils, felt-tips or markers ABOUT THE SERIES: The bestselling Arcturus Creative Colouring series brings together delightful colouring books designed to relax the mind and
£7.59
Arcturus Publishing Ltd Dream Shoes Colouring Book
Book SynopsisGive a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world - Marilyn MonroeWelcome to a dream closet packed to the brim with wonderful shoes. From fantasy creations to the highest of fashion, you''ll find boots, sandals, stilettos, platforms and shoes beyond your wildest imagination. And you can colour them any way you like, depending on your taste and style. Dotted throughout are quotes from the likes of Vivienne Westwood, Christian Louboutin and even Carrie Bradshaw, to draw inspiration from. So make your selection, take your pencils and create the shoes you''ve always dreamed of.• Includes 45 designs• Printed on thick, high-quality paper• The images appear on single-sided pages to prevent bleed-through• Suitable for pencils, felt-tips or markersABOUT THE SERIES: The bestselling Arcturus Creative Colouring series brings together delightful colouring books designed to relax the mind and inspire crea
£7.59
Arcturus Publishing Ltd The Gothic Colouring Book
Book SynopsisArtists can create their own gothic gallery with this spectacular colouring book, containing over 45 artworks inspired by gothic style and culture. From misty graveyard scenes to resplendent gothic gowns, this collection of images draws on the sometimes creepy, often dramatic, features of gothic culture. Inside you will find skulls aplenty, gothic buildings, haunting creatures and a sense of darkness and glamour, all rendered in line artworks for you to colour. Features:• Over 45 designs• Beautiful silver cover accents• Colourful designs on the opposite page to inspire your creations• Thick, high-quality paper to prevent bleed-throughSo grab your deep purples, moody greys, and bold crimsons, and to bring these gothic creations to life.
£7.59
David & Charles The Fashion Doodle Book
Book SynopsisGet creative with this ultra-funky book packed with inspiring fashion illustrations to colour, complete, decorate and doodle on!Doodlers and artists of all ages will find these unfinished artworks simply irresistible, with dresses to design, hairstyles to invent, accessories to customize, tattoos and make-up to imagine, patterns to repeat and even landscapes to continue!Let your imagination run wild with this amusing, simple, cool and original book that will awaken the dormant creative in everyone and help you hone your skills in fashion drawing and design.
£9.49
David & Charles Watercolor Hand Lettering
Book SynopsisLearn how to combine watercolor illustrations with hand lettering to create beautiful art and gifts. Self-taught artist Tanje Pöltl shares the tips, tricks and know-how she''s learned on her creative journey so that you can fast-track your skills. Discover the materials you''ll need in terms of paints, brushes, paper and pens, then get started with Tanja''s exercises to learn the basic techniques of watercolour painting and hand lettering. 20 amazing step-by-step projects include ideas for gift boxes, journals, greetings cards, jar labels, posters, hoop art, table runners, height charts, box frames and more ? all beautifully illustrated in a modern yet timeless style. Kickstart your own creative journey with this accessible and indispensable guide to easy watercolour and hand lettering techniques and make art that makes you happy!Table of ContentsForeword INTRODUCTION 365 days of creativity Your creative journey BASIC MATERIALS Hand lettering pens Watercolors Brushes Paper HANDLETTERING KNOW HOW Handlettering basics Warm up exercises Practice letters Faux calligraphy Joining letters Bounce lettering The line grid Alphabets WATERCOLOR KNOW HOW Paint/water ratio Basic techniques Handling the brush Color knowledge Tonal value, transparency, opacity Your personal color palette Exercises PROJECTS Moodboard Inspirational cards Seasonal gift boxes Botanical table runner Plant journal Floral greetings Hoop art 3D flowers Fruity labels Party stationery Seasonal calendar Recipe cards Birth poster Milestone cards The big ABC Picture wall Height chart Beetles frame Butterfly booklet About the author Index
£14.39
Brown Dog Books Just Add Watercolor Flowers
Book SynopsisFall in love with watercolors and create beautiful flower paintings that you can be proud of! Fresh and delicate, flowers are the perfect subject for expressive watercolor art. This skill-building portfolio book for absolute beginners will teach you everything you need to know to get started with watercolor painting. Talented artist Robin Pickens introduces you to all the basics of paint, brushes, palette, and water, with easy-to-follow advice on opacity, blending, shading, and mixing colors. She then guides you step-by-step through eight complete floral watercolor projects. Each project features soft, muted patterns printed on real 90# thick and tactile watercolor paper. The pages are perforated so you can easily remove your art for gifting or display. Just Add Watercolor Flowers also provides gorgeous fully colored finished examples to inspire your work on each design.
£9.49
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC History of Illustration
Book SynopsisWinner of the 2019 CHOICE Award The authoritative book on the origins, history, and influence of illustration. Bravo! David Brinley, University of Delaware, USAHistory of Illustration covers image-making and print history from around the world, spanning from the ancient to the modern. Hundreds of color images show illustrations within their social, cultural, and technical context, while they are ordered from the past to the present. Readers will be able to analyze images for their displayed techniques, cultural standards, and ideas to appreciate the art form. This essential guide is the first history of illustration written by an international team of illustration historians, practitioners, and educators.Trade ReviewBeyond situating illustrations in a time and place as material objects, the book offers practice research methodologies for evaluating visual images, encouraging students to develop the critical skill necessary to bring intellectual rigor to current illustration production. * Journal of the Printing Historical Society *The authoritative book on the origins, history, and influence of illustration. This book will educate and foster mutual respect between designers, fine artists, faculty colleagues, and of course, the illustration students enrolled in contemporary Bachelors of Fine Arts programs. Bravo! -- David Brinley, University of Delaware, USAHighly detailed and thorough. I especially like that the history of illustration of non-western cultures aren’t ignored. . .Covers all of the major illustrators and movements. -- Deanna Staffo, Maryland Institute College of Art, USAThis book is one of the most thorough histories of illustration that I have seen and it would serve graphic design students well. Its content on non-western cultures far exceeds any comprehensive illustration or design history text available at this time. -- Amanda Horton, University of Central Oklahoma, USAThis book is probably the first to cover the subject of illustration in such depth, it should be a core study text for most illustration courses I would suggest. Even though it covers a huge amount of ground, it is very well structured and referenced. * Steve Wilkin, University of Central Lancashire, UK *Table of ContentsPreface Acknowledgements Introduction SECTION ONE: ILLUSTRATIVE TRADITIONS IN EUROPE, ASIA and AFRICA 1. Image and Meaning, Prehistory to 1500 by Robert Brinkerhoff and Margot McIlwin Nishimura 2. Illustration in Printed Matter in Early Modern Europe, 1400–1660 by Susan Doyle 3. Pluralistic View of Indian Images: 2nd BCE to the 1990s by Binita Desai and Nina Sabnani 4. Illustrative Traditions in the Muslim Context by Irvin Cemil Schick 5. Chinese Illustration before 1900 by Sonja Kelley and Frances Wood 6. Prints and Books in Japan’s Floating World by Daphne Rosenzweig 7. Illustration in Latin America from Pre-Columbian to Modern 1990s by Maya Stanfield-Mazzi 8. Illustration in the African Context by Bolaji Campbell with contributions by Winifred Lambrecht SECTION TWO: IMAGES AS KNOWLEDGE, IDEAS AS POWER 9. Observation and the Representation of Natural Science Illustration 1450–1900 by Shelley Wall 10. Visualizing Bodies: Anatomical and Medical Illustration from the Renaissance to the nineteenth century by Shelley Wall 11. Dangerous Pictures: Social Commentary in Europe, 1720–1860 by Robert Lovejoy 12. From Reason to Romanticism by Hope Saska SECTION THREE: THE ADVENT OF MASS MEDIA 13. Illustration on British and North American printed ephemera of the Nineteenth and Early Twentieth Centuries by Graham Hudson 14. Illustration in the expansion of the Graphic Journalism, and Magazine Fiction in Europe and North America, 1830–1900 by Brian Kane and Page Knox 15. Beautifying Books and Popularizing Posters: Illustration in the Later Nineteenth Century by Susan Ashbrook and Alison Syme 16. Fantasy and Children’s Book Illustration Nineteenth and early Twentieth-Century England by Alice Carter 17. Six Centuries of Fashion Illustration by Pamela Parmal SECTION FOUR: DIVERGING PATHS IN 20TH CENTURY AMERICAN AND EUROPEAN ILLUSTRATION 18. American Narratives: Periodical Illustration in the Late Nineteenth and Early Twentieth Century by Mary Holahan with contributions by Alice Carter and Joyce Schiller 19. Avant-garde Illustration, 1900–1950 by Jaleen Grove 20. Diverse American Illustration Trends in Periodicals, 1915–1940 by Roger Reed 21. Wartime Imagery and Propaganda, 1890–1950 by Thomas LaPadula 22. Illustrating Alternate Realities in Pulps and Other Popular Fiction by Nicholas Egon Jainschigg with contributions by Robert Lovejoy 23. Overview of Comics and Graphic Narratives by Brian M. Kane with contributions by Loren Goodman and Michelle Nolan SECTION FIVE: THE EVOLUTION OF ILLUSTRATION IN AN ELECTRONIC AGE 24. The Shifting Postwar Marketplace: Illustration Competes with Growing Media Options in the United States and Canada, 1940–1970 by Stephanie Plunkett 25. Children's Book Illustration, 1920–2000 by H. Nichols B. Clark 26. Countercultures: Underground Comix, Rock Posters and Protest Art, 1960–1990 by Robert Lovejoy 27. Print Illustration in the Postmodern World by Whitney Sherman 28. Medical Illustration after Gray’s Anatomy: 1859 to the present by David M. Mazierski 29. Digital Forms by Nanette Hoogslag and Whitney Sherman Bibliography Glossary Index
£76.00
Echo Point Books & Media The Sierra Club Guide to Sketching in Nature,
Book SynopsisFeaturing simple step-by-step instructions and hundreds of illustrations, this sketching and watercolor primer reveals how creating art can enhance any outdoor experience.In this inspirational guide, Cathy Johnson, a nationally recognized artist, naturalist and teacher, offers personal anecdotes, exercises and useful tips that are perfect for every amateur artist. This book covers a wide range of subjects, including: Tools and equipment Mixing paints and washes Selecting a subject to sketch or paint Capturing the illusion of light Sketching clouds, flowers, trees, plants and animals Using field sketches as studies for future paintings Understanding color and using a color wheel A source list for art supplies With more than 280 of Johnson’s own illustrations—both in color and black and white—this book will inspire you to appreciate every detail of the natural world.
£29.95
Mango Media Anxious Art: A Creativity Journal to Help Calm
Book SynopsisDecompress Your StressAnxious Art is for readers and doodlers seeking relief from anxiety and stress through meditative, creative processes.What if we took our stress and used it to create art that brings us peace?A 2016 study at Drexel university that examined the effects of creative activity on reducing levels of the stress hormone cortisol discovered that “45 minutes of art making…resulted in statistically significant lowering of cortisol levels.” We all know cortisol is the stress hormone, so grab a pen or pencil and let the meditations and writing prompts in this mindfulness journal take you on a calming journey to a healthier, happier mind.T.S. Eliot once said, “Anxiety is the handmaiden of creativity,” but if he had this creative journal during times of worry, he surely would have said creativity was the handmaiden to peace. With this friendly, calming companion, you will find that you are much more present in the here and now.A unique guided journal that will calm and inspire: When used as self-expression, creativity can allow us to take part in what psychologists call “sublimation,” or the transformation of negative or socially unacceptable impulses into socially acceptable or even beautiful creations. Anxious Art offers inventive prompts, art projects, and affirmations to inspire artistic activities that distract from feelings of distress and anxiety. As you experience this transformative guided journal, you will work with: Lyrical affirmations that build self-confidence and reduce fear Therapeutic writing exercises that root you in the present and spark joy Doodling that calms your emotions Guided breathing exercises that bring you into the present moment Fans of Wreck This Journal, Tiny Buddha’s Worry Journal, or I Am Her Now, will love the calming benefits of Anxious Art.
£9.49
Page Street Publishing Co. The Beginner's Guide to Brush Lettering: An
Book SynopsisStart your brush lettering journey and make the hand-lettered art you’ve always admired with this easy step-by-step guide from lettering artist and teacher Amy Latta. Whether you’re using water-based brush pens and markers, alcohol markers or even digital art platforms like Procreate®, Amy teaches the fundamental techniques you need to create gorgeous, modern lettered art. Learn how to flourish words and make them bounce, add exciting details like highlights and shadows and take on poster-worthy projects with this packed workbook. Amy starts at the very beginning by explaining the eight basic brushstroke techniques, with tons of pages for tracing and practicing. She also includes projects with beautiful quotes and doodles to hone your skills, plus blank bordered pages for drawing your final art. Even if you’ve never thought of yourself as an artist, you’ll be amazed at what you can create with Amy’s guidance and encouragement. Brush lettering is for everyone; all you have to do is believe in yourself. Unlock all of the creative benefits of brush pen lettering with the other books in Amy Latta’s bestselling hand lettering series: Hand Lettering for Relaxation Lettering for Laughter Hand Lettering for Faith
£17.09
Thunder Bay Press Harry Potter Rock Painting
Book SynopsisThe 12 magical rock painting projects in this kit are perfect for aspiring wizards! Embark on a rock painting journey to Hogwarts with Harry Potter Rock Painting! From the acceptance letter from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to boarding the train at Platform 9¾, and from your first view of Hogwarts castle to learning your house from the Sorting Hat, the Wizarding World experience is transformed into 12 creative rock painting designs. Each project includes an associated quote to paint on the back of the rock, making the finished pieces perfect gifts for fans of all ages. The 48-page book will guide you through each project with step-by-step instructions, full-colour photos, and helpful hints. The kit includes enough material for three projects, including 3 smooth river rocks, 2 paintbrushes, 3 acrylic paints, 3 gel pens, and 12 stencils.
£12.34
Rocky Nook Watercolor with Markers
Book SynopsisGo beyond lettering and learn to use your brush pen markers to create vibrant, colorful watercolor paintings! In this easy-to-follow guide, noted artist Jessica Mack teaches all the techniques you need to get started and practice through a series of fun projects.Markers are vibrant, inexpensive, and extremely versatile. They re also less messy than paints, and require less equipment to get started, making them the ideal tool for creating at home or on the go. And when you blend them with water you really unleash their magic!With over 35 projects you re bound to find something that suits your mood. From fashion illustration to florals, galaxies to food, each project will help you hone your painting skills, and you ll have a beautiful, finished piece of art at the end. Whether you re new to painting, or looking for another way to use your markers, these fun projects will provide you with a relaxing and enjoyable way to grow your skills.
£17.85
Rocky Nook The Artist's Guide to Drawing People: 600
Book SynopsisAn essential guide for all artists with more than 600 images to show readers how to draw realistic characters with examples of movement, faces, and hands. Anatomy charts and rules of proportion will also allow users to accurately represent any human subject. Including instructions for a variety of drawing techniques (graphite pencils, colored pencils, felt tip pens, etc.) and a diverse array of models, this is the ultimate guide to mastering drawing the human form.
£17.85
Inhabit Media Inc Inuit Spirit: A Colouring Book by Artist Germaine
Book SynopsisThis colouring book features dozens of line drawings by renowned Inuit artist Germaine Arnaktauyok, followed by information on Germaine's own artistic process and her unique drawing style inspired by pointillism. Perfect for art lovers and avid colouring fans alike.Trade Review“. . . [T]his colouring book brings an interactive element to [Germaine’s] remarkable illustration[s] and to the book’s aim of bringing the art of Inuit life to those beyond the northern areas.”—CanLit for Little Canadians
£9.49
Octopus Publishing Group Draw Buildings and Cities in 15 Minutes: The
Book SynopsisGood drawings aren't always the ones that you've spent a lot of time over; some of the best pieces are swift, energetic studies that capture the feel of the subject in just a few well-placed lines. This book contains a series of exercises that develop the core skills for drawing buildings and cities, all of which can be completed in a quarter of an hour. Understand perspective Play with proximity and point of view Record details such as reflections and shadows Capture the character of buildings and cities
£11.69
Search Press Ltd Ready to Paint in 30 Minutes: Flowers in
Book SynopsisThis complete beginner’s guide to painting flowers in watercolour is ideal if you want to learn to paint but are short on time. Each of the 35 quick and easy exercises takes no more than 30 minutes to complete, and will teach you how to paint flowers of different shapes, colours and families – lilies, orchids and hellebores amongst others – or learn a key technique such as masking out, working wet in wet and colour-mixing. The exercises are all worked at postcard size – ideal for a 6 x 4in (A6) watercolour pad, and tracings are included for each study. The book is broken down into five chapters that focus, respectively, on working with watercolour, watercolour techniques, colour and tone, form and detail, and finally flowers in context. The final section of the book contains three complete paintings that demonstrate how to combine all the techniques and elements of painting flowers, as learned from the preceding chapters. These paintings, too, are accompanied by actual-size tracings. Trade Review Having just had a handful of ‘beginners’ watercolour lessons and finding them very challenging I was introduced to this book. Wow! I found it to be very exciting and inspiring. For people new to painting and to watercolour this is the book for you. You don’t even need to be able to draw! The book is full of ideas, tips and projects for you to work through. Each chapter leads on to new and interesting techniques to learn such as ‘spattering’, ‘wax resist’ and the use of salt. For those who find drawing difficult as I do tracings are provided of the flowers, leaves and seed heads featured so there is no excuse not to get started! Each ‘tracing’ is carefully cross referenced to the relevant project and page where you will find step-by-step instructions to lead you through the painting techniques needed to complete your chosen project. At the beginning of the book there is information about the basic equipment needed. A list of the paint colours used throughout is given but as well as their names there is also a colour chart. I found this a great help as it meant I could mix the colour I needed if I didn’t have the particular paint mentioned. As it is now autumn I decided to have a go at the leaf (see Pic 1). This involved painting ‘wet-in- wet’. I particularly enjoyed trying out the effect of ‘spatter spots’. Painting the ‘Anemone with shadows’ picture (pic 2) introduced the idea of using ‘negative space’ to keep areas white, and of using masking fluid to reserve areas of the paper from the paint in order to add a different colour at a later stage. The background to the flowers is achieved using the ‘wet-in-wet’ method whereas to deepen the shadow and add detail required ‘wet-on-dry’. My most successful picture was achieved using wax resist to paint a picture of Honesty seed heads (see Pic 3). I was very happy with the result at just my first attempt! If you love flowers and have always wanted to paint them then this book is for you. https://notcompulsory.blogspot.co.uk/2017/10/two-ready-to-paint-in-30-minutes.html * Not Compulsory *September 2017 The original Ready to Paint series sold well to more experienced artists who might have been expected to dismiss it as 'jumped up painting by numbers'. A complete re-think has produced this development which is a whole new departure. In place of complete paintings there are 30-odd half-hour exercises that concentrate on a single element -skies, shadows, trees, rosebuds, seed heads or leaves. There is also more emphasis on technique and therefore on the learning process. It's definitely worth a look. * The Artist *September 2017 Ready to Paint in 30 Minutes is a brand new series from Search Press aimed specifically at the complete beginner. The focus is to provide quick and easy instruction for anyone short on time, as each exercise is designed to take no more than 30 minutes. The series kicks off with two titles - Street Scenes by Grahame Booth and Flowers in Watercolour by Ann Mortimer. Street Scenes is broken down into eight chapters covering tone, colour, perspective, the wash. edge control, brush strokes, adding details and putting it all togethe. There are 32 easy exercises for you to work on, each of which covers an element of street scenes, such as doorways or people. The time is limited to 20 minutes spent on each and the size is limited to postcard size, which make them ideal for an A6 watercolour pad. Three finished paintings are demonstrated at the end of the book and are accompanied by actual size tracings to make it easier for the complete novice to get started with their painting. Ann Mortimer will be well known to Leisure Painter readers and in her 30 minute book she covers five main aspects of painting flowers in watercolour: working with watercolour, watercolour techniques, colour and tone, form and details, and finally, flowers in context. Once again the size and time is limited for each exercise and the final section, also accompanied by actual size tracings, demonstrates three paintings that combine all the techniques learnt. * The Leisure Painter *This is genuinely exciting evolution of a popular series. You'll be guided through some simple exercises and on to complete painting, gaining valuable insights that will develop and improve your skills. * Artbookreview.net *Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 Basic painting equipment 8 Working with watercolour 10 Washes 12 Working wet in wet 14 Layering 16 Blending out 18 Using the white of the paper 20 Techniques 22 Masking 24 Cutting out 26 Negative painting 28 White flowers with shadows 30 Spattering & scribbling 32 Salt & wax resists 34 Colour & tone 36 Mixing greens 38 Mixing dark colours 40 Mixing shadow colours 42 Mixing yellows 44 Mixing autumn colours 46 Contrast & tone 48 Backlighting 50 Form & detail 52 Drawing & composing 54 Flower shapes: star 56 Flower shapes: bell 58 Flower shapes: cup 60 Flower shapes: cone 62 Complex flower shapes 64 Buds 66 Painting leaves 68 Leaf shapes 70 Seed heads 72 Seed heads: ‘Honesty’ 74 Flower markings: orchid 76 Flower markings: hellebore 78 Flowers in context 80 Flowers in a vase 82 Mixed border 84 Woodland with daffodils 86 Flowers in pots 88 Dog roses in a landscape 90 Pansies in a vase 92 Clematis on a trellis 94 Index 96 Templates 97
£11.69
Search Press Ltd The Encyclopedia of Oil Techniques: A unique
Book SynopsisA new, up-to-date edition of the popular and comprehensive encyclopedia by professional and award-winning artist, Jeremy Galton. Ideal for artists of all skill levels, this A-Z reference covers a multitude of topics concerning oil painting. The book is divided into two sections: the first provides step-by-step demonstrations that guide artists through a variety of techniques, from basic colour mixing through to creating special effects such as peinture a l'essence and sgraffito. The second part focuses on themes, illustrating how individual artists tackle a number of common subjects, including landscapes, buildings, portraits, still life, skies and water. This resource provides a wealth of stimulating ideas to help artists – both amateurs and veterans – develop their own oil-painting style.Table of ContentsIntroducing acrylics, Techniques, Alma Prima, Blending, Broken Colour, Brushwork, Building Up, Collage, Colour Grounds, Colour Mixing, Corrections, Dabbing, Defining Edges, Dry Brush, Fat Over Lean, Finger Painting, Glazing, Grounds, Impasto, Imprinting, Knife Painting, Masking, Mediums, Mixed Media, Monoprinting, Palette, Peinture a L'essence, Pointillism, Scraping Back, Scrumbling, Sgraffito, Supports, Texturing, Tonking, Transferring Drawings, Underdrawing, Underpainting, Wet into Wet, Wet On Dry, Themes, Architecture, Figures, Landscapes, Skies, Still life, Water, Index and credits
£13.49
Search Press Ltd Ready to Paint in 30 Minutes: Animals in
Book SynopsisThis complete beginner's guide to painting animals and birds is ideal if you want to learn to paint in watercolour but are short on time. Broken down into 32 quick and easy paintings measuring just 15 x 10cm (6 x 4in), this basic course will teach you all the skills you need to paint domestic and wild animals and birds, in home settings or in nature. Best-selling author Matthew Palmer shows you how to paint a diverse range of animals and birds, including a parrot, cat, dog, zebra, stag, cow and swan, and teaches you how to paint realistic markings, fur and feathers, and how to create faces filled with character and personality. Tracings are provided for all the paintings, including the three projects at the end of the book. Simply trace them off onto your watercolour paper and paint with confidence, without the need to make an initial drawing. Each painting takes just 30 minutes to complete and teaches you a different technique, so by the end of the book you will be equipped with all the skills you need to complete one of the three full-size projects: a King Charles cavalier spaniel, a snow leopard and a hummingbird. Trade ReviewHere’s an ideal subject for this nicely-maturing series. Matthew presents simple exercises that cover just about every type of animal and coat from hide to hair, fur and feathers (birds are included). Some of the backgrounds are plain, allowing you to concentrate on the subject, others include wider settings that provide context. Nothing is over-complicated, however, and the idea of working quickly on a single idea is never compromised. Each of the 29 exercises is accompanied by an outline tracing that allows you to get the basic shapes down quickly and you’ll be working at A6 size, so you won’t need to make elaborate preparations or clear a working space. 30 minutes is probably best seen as a target rather than a limit – if you want to spend a bit more time, that’s fine, just don’t get too tied up with details and land up over-working. -- Henry Malt * Artbookreview.net *Animals in Watercolour by Matthew Palmer is added to the Ready to Paint in 30 Minutes series and provides 29 postcard-size exercises that cover wild and domestic species and highlight fur, feathers, structure and features along with pre-drawn outline tracings to get you started. -- Henry Malt * The Artist *This book is a perfect introduction to painting with watercolours for those with little or no experience. The tracings that are provided make it simple to get started if you’re not confident at drawing freehand, and each of the 32 projects helps you to learn a new painting technique so you can gradually build on your skills as you work your way through the book. Everything is well explained and easy to follow even for novice painters. I hadn’t read any of Matthew Palmer’s books before this one, and I wish I’d discovered them sooner. -- Dawn Andrews * Amazon Customer Review *This is my first time trying out one of these books and I was incredibly impressed. Not only were the images great for practicing drawing the animals myself but the watercolour steps were broken down in a way that were easy to follow. I will definitely be trying the other books in the series! -- Dale Dow * Amazon Customer Review *Table of ContentsTracings, Introduction 6, Basic painting equipment 8, Basic techniques 10, Parrot at sunset 16, Bird in flight 18, Koi carp 20, Zebra 22, Swan 24 Key features 26 Cat’s eyes 28, Peering tabby 30, Curious kitten 32, Tiger 34, Dog’s eyes 36, Puppy 38, Highland cow’s muzzle 40, Cockerel’s head 42 Textures and markings 44 Penguin’s wing 46, African elephant 48, Lamb 50, Ram 52, Great tit 54 Portraits 56 Drawing a portrait from a photograph 60, Alsatian 62, Rabbit 64, Chimpanzee 66, Meerkat 68 Animals in the landscape 70 Cat on the lookout 72, Sheep in a field 74, Flamingos paddling 76, Penguins 78, Asian elephant 80, Stag in woodland 82, Robin on a branch 84, Stag in winter 86, Giraffe 88, ‘Max’, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 90, Snow Leopard 92, Hummingbird 94 Index 96
£11.69
Search Press Ltd A Beginner’s Guide to Watercolour with Mixed
Book SynopsisAdding other mediums to your watercolour paintings is a fantastic way to take your work in new, more exciting directions. However, the vast array of painting mediums and materials on the market can be daunting, especially for the beginner. This book introduces the reader to the range of media that is available, explains briefly and clearly how to use the materials and provides six step-by-step projects and inspirational finished paintings to encourage you to take a definitive leap into the exciting world of mixed media art. Author Alison C Board covers a multitude of topics in her work, and this book features flowers, animal portraits, dancers in motion, cityscapes and landscapes. She explores how to combine wet and dry media, and how to create vibrant collages from man-made and natural found objects. There are no mistakes in mixed-media artwork, and Alison encourages the reader to be unafraid and embrace the experimental.Trade Reviewi found this book from Alison C Board to be very inspiring. She takes you on a journey to explore a variety of watercolour and mixed media techniques and includes detailed photographed stages to guide you through 6 very different projects. I can see it will be a resource book I’ll enjoy dipping into to help further my knowledge & skills. -- Claire Harding * Amazon *There are no mistakes in mixed-media artwork, and Alison encourages you to be unafraid and embrace the experimental! Adding other mediums to your watercolour paintings is a fantastic way to take your work in new, more exciting directions. This book introduces the range of media that is available and will open your eyes to new and inspirational ways of creating. The book provides six step-by-step projects to encourage you to take a definitive leap into the exciting world of mixed media art, covering a multitude of subjects including flowers, animal portraits, dancers in motion, cityscapes and landscapes. Alison explores how to combine wet and dry media, and how to create vibrant collages from man-made and natural found objects. * The SAA *Mixed media is all too often an excuse for playing with technique to no specific end. Alternatively, it’s a footnote in a book about another medium – “you can always add a bit of gouache to create highlights” or “how about rolling up some cling film and seeing what happens?” Alison has made something of a career out of working with a huge variety of techniques and media and her armoury is huge. So huge, in fact, that if she wasn’t absolutely on top of it, this would be the messiest book ever, both in terms of results and organisation. She is, however, absolutely confident with her methods and this is a masterpiece. Its main merit is that it isn’t a technical book at all. Or, rather, it’s absolutely about technique, but only for creative ends. You don’t put paint on paper to cover up the surface, you do it to create an image that satisfies both you and the viewer. You might want to convey the tranquillity of a rolling landscape, or the play of light and colour in a flower or plant, but the point is that it’s all about the end result, not how you got there. A chef creates a dish that delights the diner and, if another chef admires the method of cooking, that’s just a sideshow. So, buckle up and prepare to be astounded. The projects here include flowers, landscapes, people and animals. Materials include both wet and dry media as well as accessories such as hessian, bubble wrap and even chicken wire to create texture. All these things you’d expect, but look at the results – they don’t scream “clever” at you, they invite you to study the inner character of the subject. Less is more, the invisible is the first thing you see. Oh, and by the way, the figure demonstration is of a dancer: the sense of movement Alison (a trained ballet teacher) gets into a static pose will just take your breath away. If you haven’t already gathered that I’m calling this the best book ever on mixed media, well, I am. * Artbookreview.net *A Beginner's Guide to Watercolour with Mixed Media encourages beginners to energise their watercolours by using other media, and takes the fear and confusion away from the often bewildering array of materials on offer. In this clear and practical guide, Alison shows readers what's available and how to use these painting mediums and materials, with six step-by-step projects to work through. Subjects include flowers, animal portraits, dancers, cityscapes and landscapes. * Leisure Painter *Table of ContentsIntroduction Watercolour Hellebore – Step-by-step project Dry media Riley – Step-by-step project Wet media Naomi – Step-by-step project Found objects Natural found objects Man-made found objects Poppies & Physalis – Step-by-step project Collage and text The West Side – Step-by-step project Surfaces and textures Towards Hod Hill – Step-by-step project Taking inspiration Index
£11.69
Search Press Ltd Paint Pad Poster Book: City Scenes: 5 Beautiful
Book SynopsisFill your home with original, professional art – and learn to paint at the same time. This innovative new series is a poster book, an art pad and a step-by-step painting book all rolled into one! Each of the five posters is ready to pull out, frame and display. In addition, you can enjoy the calming pursuit of painting each of the pictures yourself using the pre-printed outlines – so no drawing required. The large, landscape format of the book allows each stage of painting to be clearly and comprehensively explained with innovative annotations. Simply pull out the stage-by-stage tutorial pages and pin them to your easel, then paint directly onto the watercolour outline for fantastic results. In this title, City Scenes, learn to paint iconic scenes of London, Paris and New York, and enjoy five masterclasses in painting from renowned artist Geoff Kersey.Trade ReviewThe Paint Pad Poster Books from Search Press are aimed at beginners and designed to produce fast results. Each book includes five posters to pull out and frame, as well as a watercolour outline and step-by-step instructions so that you can have a go at painting the subject yourself. The books are printed in a large, landscape format, which helps to present each annotated stage clearly, and the instructions are east to remove from the book and pin to your drawing board for reference. This new poster book focuses on city scenes painted by popular artist and tutor, Geoff Kersey, including London, Paris and New York. * Leisure Painter *The first thing that’ll strike you on opening this is the sheer amount of detail in the source images. These are not simply blow-ups of the ones that appeared in the original books, they’ve been completely re-originated so that colours, marks and even granulation are immediately visible. It’s striking, as it should be. The five scenes here cover bridges, statues, vegetation and street furniture as well as water, buildings and other structures. The instructions are simple and you should be able to produce results you can be proud to display for only a little over £3 a time. -- Henry Malt * Artbookreview.net *This is the third entry in Search Press’ innovative series for novice watercolour painters. The large format (A3) book contains five sheets of watercolour paper with outlines printed on them, plus fully illustrated tutorials, and a brief overview. When you have finished you will have learned a lot about working in your chosen medium plus a set of five elegant cityscapes to hang on your walls. This is a great idea for anybody who is keen to make a start with watercolour painting but is not sure where to begin. It also eliminates the need for buying a pad of suitable paper and an instruction book; just purchase paints and brushes. There is a handy page which shows you a shopping list of everything you will need for each painting, plus a section at the beginning which tells you a bit about each item. Discover how to use masking fluid, what forms the paint comes in and the basic types of brushes as well as how to prepare your paper and what size frames to buy. To show you what your picture will look like there are exact size pictures of all five paintings which is helpful. Each project is built up in four stages, and for each stage an A5 sized image has arrows leading to captions describing what has been done, plus smaller pictures show details in close-up. This eliminates having to read a lot of text and there is nothing quite as good as an image to show rather than tell. If you don’t want to use watercolours these pictures can also be completed using pastels, coloured pencils, or acrylics. Thus, the book is also ideal for somebody who wants to try a new medium or who can already paint but wants to try a new subject. The pictures show the Arc de Triomphe, Tower Bridge, a London skyline, Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. I hope that soon there will be more additions to this excellent series. -- Rachel A Hyde * myshelf.com *Table of Contents- Introduction to the book and general instructions - 5 pull-out posters - Brooklyn Bridge tutorial - The Arc de Triomphe tutorial - The London Eye tutorial - Tower Bridge tutorial - The Statue of Liberty tutorial - 5 ready-to-paint outlines on watercolour paper
£14.39
Search Press Ltd Painting with System3: Techniques and Inspiration
Book SynopsisPaint with best-selling author Charles Evans as he introduces the System3 range of inks and acrylics. System3 is a well-established brand of inks, acrylics and heavy body paints manufactured by Daler-Rowney; it is readily available worldwide, including the US and UK, and is economically priced, making it affordable by students as well as amateur artists. Painting with System3 aims to inspire, instruct and encourage an experimental approach to painting with this versatile range of media, taking it out of the classroom and into the field. Daler-Rowney ambassador Charles Evans teaches the reader about the variety of products in the range and explores creative and innovative ways of using – and combining – the inks and paints on different supports, including watercolour paper, canvas and wood. As the first book to showcase the properties and versatility of System3 inks and acrylics, Painting with System3 takes a highly practical approach to introducing the potential of the range, with exercises and 13 step-by-step projects to help the reader carry forward the skills they have acquired. Charles also features his artwork using the media, as further inspiration on what can be achieved with System3.Trade ReviewSystem 3 from Daler-Rowney is a range of acrylic colours that fulfils all the requirements of the acrylic painter and provides consistent results across the board. There are four types of medium: heavy and soft body tube colours as well as inks and liquid paint. These are complemented by a selection of brushes and surfaces - papers and canvases. Created with the fine - rather than the graphic artist in mind, the range includes more subtle colours that acrylics sometimes have a reputation for and mixes are always reliable and consistent. Charles is a relatable tutor with considerable experience of demonstrating and his is justly and understandably popular as a result. In this thorough but eminently approachable guide, he aims to show you what you can achieve with acrylics in general and with System 3 in particular, making use of its flexibility across the range. After an introduction to all the parts of the system, where he shows you its properties and capabilities, Charles embarks on a series of demonstrations that showcase its use in practice. All of the constituent parts are used and subjects range from landscapes, seas and skies, to animals, boats and buildings. There are both simple and complex scenes that allow you to build up your skills progressively, while also exploring the capabilities of a fascinating but forgiving medium. System 3 is an exciting addition to the acrylic armoury and Charles - as you'd expect - provides a complete guide that will never leave you stuck for either ideas or information. * Paint SAA Magazine *Best-selling author, Charles Evans, show us how to use Daler-Rowney's System3 acrylics and inks in his new book, Painting with System 3. Charles needs no introduction to Leisure Painter readers and is well known for his long-running TV series, art classes, Search Press books and as a Daler-Rowney demonstrator, so he is well placed to introduce us to this medium. With a highly practical approach, Charles showcases the properties and versatility of System3 inks and acrylics, accompanied by 13 step-by-step projects that allow the reader to practise what they are learning. The teaching is not all studio-based, with Charles encouraging students to take an experimental approach to painting outside in the field. There's plenty of inspiring advice on innovative ways of combining inks and paints on different supports, from watercolour paper to canvas and wood. * Leisure Painter *Charles has a knack for simplifying and demystifying what at first glance appears to be a difficult and complex medium to use. This book covers all aspects of the System3 range and gives some great projects to attempt painting on a surprising variety of surfaces. It’s comprehensive, informative, and easy to follow. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to try acrylics for the first time. -- Keith Phipps * Amazon Customer Review *I chose this book for my husband who is a budding artist in acrylics, as I know Charles Evans simplifies the painting process and is easy to follow through on his projects. The tricks and tips then act as a springboard for your own imagination to take forward. My husband has tried a few of the projects out already and is in agreement that the content for each painting is about right, not overwhelming but informative enough to achieve. -- Chris Ingram * Amazon Customer Review *Daler Rowney’s System 3 is an integrated set of acrylic mediums that includes heavy and soft body paints, inks and fluid colours. The overall palette remains the same across the range and all the parts are designed to work harmoniously together. Although this is in large part a promotional piece for System 3, sticking with a single range has allowed Charles to produce a complete guide to working with acrylics that covers just about every aspect. He is able to contrast and mix styles and ways of working that would be much more difficult if different brands and types were involved. The nature of the book means it makes complete sense to start at the absolute beginning, by introducing paints, equipment and supports and then moving on to basic methods of application and demonstrations of subjects that include landscapes, water, animals and buildings. If you’re starting to paint, this makes an excellent introductory guide and you’ll be working with a range of materials that will be reliable and should produce no nasty surprises. You’ll also be in the hands of an experienced and generous teacher who is not afraid to explain those sometimes elementary details you really need. -- Henry Malt * Artbookreview.net *Table of ContentsForeword 6, Introduction 8, Introducing System3 10, Acrylic inks 12, Fluid acrylics 16, Normal System3 17, Heavy Body 18, Brushes 20, Palette knives 22, Surfaces 25, Additional tools and materials 28, Techniques 30, Setting up 30, Colours and mixes 36, Inks 37, Fluid acrylics 38, Normal System3 40, Heavy Body 44, Making your mark 46, System3 in action 52, Woodland Walk 52, A Calming Lake 56, Comparing the surfaces 58, Highland Scene 62, Cumbrian Landscape 70, Comparing the surfaces 72, Leading Him Home 74, On the Beach 88, Crashing Waves 96, Fox in the Woods 106, Shoebill Stork 112, Seasons 118, The Old Bath House 126, The Beauty of Summer 140, Index 144
£11.69
Octopus Publishing Group RHS Flowers The Watercolour Art Pad
Book SynopsisAnyone can produce beautiful botanical paintings with this, the first guided watercolour book. Printed on specialist watercolour art paper and containing step-by-step tutorials, this book is the perfect introduction to producing exquisite illustrations. 15 works by Rachel Pedder-Smith have been recreated by the artist in outline-only form, ready for you to paint, along with recommended colour palettes and artworks to copy. Follow author Rachel's tips for layering colour, or follow the outlines of single stems, blooms or more intricate designs, and create a gallery of floral images. The paper is easily removed, taped down and painted on directly, meaning you can display your colourful creations. If you're feeling more experimental, this paper will also work beautifully with other media such as acrylic paint, artists' pencils and fibre-tip pens.
£17.74
Hardie Grant Books (UK) Animal Art: 101 Creative Activities to Inspire
Book SynopsisIn this new title Animal Art: 101 Creative Activities to Inspire and Guide You, readers will gain expert instruction that still leaves plenty of room for experimentation and fun. Featuring 101 art activities that encourage engagement with the natural world, Lorna shows you that creating art with animals as subjects can be super enjoyable and need not be intimidating. Her insightful prompts will see readers sketching with joy in this accessible and helpful guide to creating everything from sketches of beloved pets to paintings of wild animals and fantastical creatures! Full of tips to help spark creative ideas, Animal Art shows readers how everyone (not just artists) can enjoy the playful pleasure of drawing all manner of beasts and critters, no matter their skill level.
£13.49
The Crowood Press Ltd Painting Rivers from Source to Sea
Book SynopsisRivers can be enchanting or exciting, but are always absorbing. They provide a myriad of painting opportunities and challenges for the artist. Focusing on watercolour - one of the most direct of mediums - this practical book explains how to paint a river and capture its life, light, movement, colour and interest. With over 200 colour images, Rob Dudley shares his methods, techniques and ideas to make this beautiful book a must-have for all landscape and en plein-air artists.
£15.29