Paintings and painting Books

Book SynopsisThe Lammermuir Hills have been an important trade route between Scotland and England for generations, as well as an effective barrier when necessary. Drawn by the long history of south-eastern Scotland and the many conflicting elements in play in its natural environment – among them wind farms, pylons, forestry plantations, grouse moors and sheep – the distinguished Scottish painter and printmaker Barbara Rae CBE RA has made numerous studies of these wild expanses. This handsome volume reproduces a wide selection of her intensely colourful images with accompanying photographs and maps, and texts by the art critic Duncan Macmillan, Emeritus Professor of the History of Scottish Art at the University of Edinburgh, and Maureen Barrie, who worked for many years at National Museums Scotland.Table of ContentsThe Caledonian Antisyzygy 9 duncan macmillan Letting the Paint Do the Talking 17 barbara rae in conversation with duncan macmillan Different Views 23 maureen barrie Plates 1997–98 46 2020–21 60 Artist’s Biography 125 Bibliography 127 Index of Works 128

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn opulent fusion of sensuality, symbolism, and artistic ingenuity, this magnificent boxed-set features stunning color reproductions of Klimt's essential works in an accordion-fold format accompanied by a separate booklet with background and descriptions of each painting. Gustav Klimt's luminous paintings are particularly suited for an accordion-fold presentation. As each painting unfolds into a lavish reproduction, Klimt's dazzling colors and intricate patterns spring to life. This volume includes several highlights of Klimt's works including The Kiss, his portraits of Adele Bloch-Bauer, The Tree of Life, Danae, and Death and Life. The stunning reproductions allow readers to experience close up Klimt's intricate details and artful use of gold leaf; his art's symbolism and emotional power; his decorative aesthetic, and beguiling landscapes. A separate booklet with explanatory captions providing additional background and historic context accompanies the main volume. Klimt's many fan

Read more less

Book SynopsisA biography and gallery of one of Spain's great masters, stunningly illustrated throughout.

Read more less

Book SynopsisInspired by the recent identification of a third autograph version of Gainsborough’s masterpiece The Cottage Door, this book examines the significance of the multiple versions of designs that the artist produced during the 1780s. It demonstrates that without the pressure of exhibiting his work annually at the Academy and without a string of sitters waiting for their finished portraits, Gainsborough’s work became more personal, more thoughtful. This study of the last phase of the artist’s work is a totally fresh interpretation of not only The Cottage Door but other key works such as Mrs Sheridan and Diana and Acteon. Gainsborough’s creative energies changed around 1780. He became restless and wanted to promote his landscape painting more effectively. He started to paint coastal scenes using an innovative painting technique to depict the water and he embarked on a series of`fancy’ pictures that he would position him as a descendant of an Old Master tradition. He was never happy with the constraints of the Royal Academy and he was at odds with the dictatorial opinions promoted by its president, Sir Joshua Reynolds. Removing himself from the Academy enabled him finally to do what he wanted. He began to turn to portrait compositions that he had developed and refined over a number of years. With subtle alterations they could be made suitable for a variety of sitters. The subtlety of his skilled observation was less easy to accommodate in standard-sized full-length canvases and in these portraits he sometimes resorted to rhetoric gesture that fought against the closely observed likenesses in his best portraits. The margin between`fancy’ pictures and portraits became blurred and the categorization of some of these paintings changed while they were on the easel. Always finding composition difficult, rather than begin something new he often revisited earlier designs that had pleased him. He would paint them again and make slight changes of tone and emphasis that would radically change the concept and intention of the design. The subject matter in some of his late paintings veers towards the autobiographical and shows a certain rift between him and his family.

Read more less

Book SynopsisPublished to coincide with the exhibition at the Foundling Museum in London, this fascinating book will re-introduce Joseph Highmore (1692–1780), an artist of status and substance in his day, who is now largely unknown. It takes as its focus Highmore’s small oil painting known as The Angel of Mercy (1746, Yale), one of the most shocking and controversial images in 18th-century British art. The painting depicts a woman in fashionable mid-18th-century dress strangling the infant lying on her lap. A cloaked, barefooted fi gure cowers to the right as an angel intervenes, pointing towards the Foundling Hospital, the recently built refuge for abandoned infants, in the distance. The image attempts to address one of the most disturbing aspects of the Foundling Hospital story – certainly a subject that many (now as then) would consider beyond depiction. But if any artist of the period had attempted such a subject it would surely be William Hogarth, not the portrait painter Joseph Highmore? In fact, the painting was attributed to Hogarth for almost two centuries, until its reattribution in the 1990s. Even so, it is surprising that despite the wealth of scholarship associated with Hogarth and the `modern moral subject’ of the 1730s and 1740s, The Angel of Mercy has received little attention until now. The book (and exhibition) seeks to address this, while encouraging greater interest in, and appreciation for, this signifi cant British artist. Highmore expert, Jacqueline Riding, will set this extraordinary painting within the context of the artist’s life and work, as well as broader historical and artistic contexts. This will include exploration of superb examples of Highmore’s portraiture, such as his complex, monumental group portrait The Family of Sir Eldred Lancelot Lee and the exquisite small-scale `conversations’ The Vigor Family and The Artist and his Family, juxtaposed with analysis of key subject paintings, including the Foundling Museum’s Hagar and Ishmael and Highmore’s `Pamela’ series, inspired by Samuel Richardson’s bestselling novel. Collectively they tackle relevant and highly contentious issues around the status and care of women and children, master/servant relations, motherhood, abuse, abandonment, infant death and murder.Trade ReviewHighmore (1692–1780) was much more than just a society painter ... his connection with the Foundling Hospital alerted him to the inequalities and injustices of his time and to the plight of women and children at the mercy of men who always held the keys ... [The ] `Angel of Mercy’ still has the power to shock and, sadly, tells a very modern story. * The Spectator *Highmore’s works include many paintings showing his sympathetic approach to the plight of powerless women ... [This is] the first major publication of his work. * The Guardian *It is the commonality between high and low that Basic Instincts reveals so well. We aren’t as divided as we think. Highmore scratches away at the veneer of respectability that coats the art of his age, and finds darkness beneath. Regardless of position, everyone has the same capacity for bad behaviour. And unfortunately, as Highmore shows, all too often women bore the brunt of this behaviour. * Rake's Digress *'Basic Instincts' brings Joseph Highmore out of the shadows. * Apollo Magazine *

Read more less

Book SynopsisCapture the wonders of nature in watercolour with this quick guide to wildlife painting, packed with techniques and inspiration. Bestselling author Hazel Soan demonstrates how to paint a variety of wildlife, from garden favourites to exotic wild beasts. With easy-to-follow instructions and step-by-step exercises, it has never been easier to capture the likeness of an animal, in your chosen medium, in a few quick strokes. The book covers all the key skills you need, including techniques for speed, capturing pose and proportion, advice on painting fur, feathers, hair, hides and markings, working with colour and light, and adding background and setting, as well as further work that can be completed in the studio. From cats, big and small, birds and foxes to magnificent elephants, lions and zebras, Hazel's simple tips, practical demonstrations and beautiful paintings can be applied to any moving subject and will help you master the art of capturing animals – in watercolour, oils, pencils or pastels – in no time at all.Trade Review‘There’s a great deal of information here, beautifully presented from an expert artist and tutor’ Leisure Painter

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Urban Sketching Handbook: Understanding Lighthelps urban sketchers develop the skills they need to capture and express different kinds of light, both natural and artificial, in both day and night scenes.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA guide to pastel materials and techniques. The author uses traditional soft and hard pastels, as well as oil pastels and oil sticks, showing the effects produced by each in step-by-step demonstrations. Included are ways to combine pastels with water, acrylic, alkyd gels and oil paint.

Read more less

Book SynopsisOver the past decade, Frank Bowling has enjoyed belated attention and celebration, including a major Tate Britain retrospective in 2019. This comprehensive monograph, published in 2011, is now available in an updated and expanded edition. Born in British Guiana in 1934, Bowling arrived in England in his late teens, going on to study at the Royal College of Art alongside David Hockney and Derek Boshier. By the early 1960s he was recognised as an original force in the vibrant London art scene, with a style that brilliantly combined figurative, symbolic and abstract elements. Dividing his time between New York and London since the late 1960s, he has developed a unique and virtuosic abstract style that combines aspects of American painterly abstraction with a treatment of light and space that consciously recollects the great English landscape painters Gainsborough, Turner and Constable. In a compelling text the art writer, critic and curator Mel Gooding hails Bowling as one of the finest British artists of his generation.

Read more less

Book Synopsis'If you thought oil pastels were just something for children, prepare to think again.' The Artist '...look on in wonder as Tim shows you how you can use this neglected but simple medium to create real works of art...Just open this book at random and you'll be hooked.' Paint Magazine Learn to paint with oil pastels in this colourful, accessible book for newcomers to the medium. Tim Fisher demonstrates how to use the oil pastels on their own, or in conjunction with acrylic inks and paints, and watercolours, on a variety of surfaces, to create beautiful paintings that will maintain their vibrancy for years to come. The Beginner's Guide to Painting with Oil Pastels features six full step-by-step projects covering a variety of subjects including animal portraits, street scenes, boats and harbours, buildings and glorious landscapes. Tim introduces the reader to mark-making with oil pastels, explains the history of the medium, and how to protect and keep an oil pastel painting once it is complete. Trade ReviewIf you thought oil pastels were just something for your children, think again. As Tim makes clear in his introduction, they were invented 100 years ago as a means of combining the convenience of wax crayons with the quality of pigments suited to more serious art. They have, however struggled to escape the schoolroom connection and have been too frequently overlooked. This book is aimed at the beginner, so you'll need to balance this approach and detailed step-by-step demonstrations against the quality of work that Tim produces and adapt the way you use this, one of the very few books on this subject. Persistence will be rewarded and, with a minimal amount of equipment, you can discover a medium that, while perfect for outdoor sketching, is capable of the subtle effects more often associated with chalk pastels or even watercolour. * The Artist, February 2019 *If you think that oil pastels are just a pricier version of the wax crayon this book will show you how they have really come of age. From their invention in the early 20th century to the acid-free and non-yellowing type we use today they are surprisingly versatile, and mix well with other art media. I confess to having no idea of their origins so found the short history very interesting. This book will particularly appeal to anybody who possesses existing art skills (and materials) but wants to discover how to incorporate oil pastels in their work. It is a beginner’s guide to this and not a primer on how to draw and paint. Discover what brand the author buys and what else he suggests you can use. A surprising array of different materials and tools come into play, from a hairdryer to a scalpel, acrylic and watercolour paints, and inks, encaustic iron, hot glue gun and many more. Prepare a variety of surfaces and work through several exercises on mark making, sgraffito, stencilling, masking, using solvents, working with other types of paint and more. Each exercise will produce a painting, the best way of learning any art technique. After the basics there are several projects, which show in classic Search Press style (ie many captioned photographs for a foolproof learning experience) what to do. Paint flowers, a street scene in Venice, trees, a harbour, a dog and a country cottage. Learn too how to frame your work and look after it. It shows how art doesn’t have to be about just one medium, but mixing it up a bit can produce some excellent results and also how versatile modern materials can be. -- Rachel Hyde * myshelf.com *Oil pastels have a hard time of it in the art world. Often regarded as mere child’s toys, they were invented in Japan some 100 years ago (Tim includes a fascinating history) as a means of combining wax crayons with the better quality pigments demanded by the serious artist. As a medium, they have much to recommend them, being easy to carry and requiring little in the way of ancillary equipment. They don’t drop colour, have no drying time and the images they create are thoroughly robust. If nothing else, therefore, they’re worthy of consideration as a lightweight sketching medium. However, as Tim amply and ably demonstrates here, they’re capable of considerable subtlety and the results he produces could easily be taken for soft pastel or even watercolour. This is, as the title suggests, aimed at the beginner and includes a very straightforward introduction and a series of detailed demonstrations that make the medium’s capabilities clear. For the more experienced artist, this might be a little more than is required, but it may still prove helpful if you are trying something that is unfamiliar. If I were to tell you that this is easily the best book on oil pastels I’ve seen, you’d rightly point out that it’s probably the only one. This isn’t quite true – I’m pretty sure I remember another – but Tim hasn’t taken the easy route and has put a lot of trouble into producing a book it will be hard to better. -- artbookreview.net * Henry Malt *Well-known to Leisure Painter readers, Tim Fisher demonstrates how to use oil pastels in this Beginner's Guide to Painting with Oil Pastels. The book includes history of oil pastels as well as the materials and tools you will need. Six full step-by-step projects, covering a variety of subjects show readers how to create vibrant oil pastel paintings, and demonstrate how they can be used in conjunction with acrylic inks and paints, as well as watercolours. * Leisure Painter, January 2019 *Tim's use of line, colour and economy of shape, make it one of the best books on painting, period. * Paint magazine (November 2018) *In a series of full-colour demonstrations, Tim shows you how to work with subjects as diverse as landscapes, buildings, boats, dogs, trees and flowers. He will also show you how to achieve subtle effects with your oil pastels by using blenders and by combining them with other media such as acrylics and inks. -- The SAA * The SAA Catalogue 19/20 *Table of ContentsIntroduction The history of oil pastels Materials and tools oil pastels Additional materials and tools Surfaces Surface preparation Getting started Painting a red pepper Techniques Mark-making Special effects Using solvents Using oil pastels with other media Projects Flowers: Poppy Field Trees and foliage: Norfolk Lane Street scenes: Venice Buildings: Staithes Cottages harbour scene: ‘Le Fantasque’ Animal portraits: Freyja Care and framing of your artwork Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisBefore Norman Rockwell put paintbrush to canvas, he had a precise idea of what he wanted to create. A perfectionist and analytical thinker, Rockwell completed numerous preparatory drawings in the process of developing his paintings, much like the Old Masters before him. He worked in several stages, including thumbnail sketches and studies of particular details - culminating in a meticulous tonal drawing that served as a basis for the final painting. But Rockwell's drawing was not only in the service of his painting: he also executed finished illustrations in pencil and charcoal; kept travel sketchbooks; and shared illustrated letters, caricatures, and comics with his family and friends.This abundantly illustrated book reveals the entire scope of Rockwell's work as a draftsman. It reproduces the full sequence of preliminary drawings (and reference photographs) that led up to some of his most famous Saturday Evening Post covers - and it also presents a generous samplinTrade Review"Norman Rockwell’s exceptional drawings, revealed for the first time." - Hyperallergic

Read more less

Book SynopsisAirfix has been commercially producing plastic kits since 1952 and its models have been made by successive generations of young boys and men alike. In the 1960s, a talented graphic artist called Roy Cross was commissioned to paint some of the box art for Airfix, and for a ten-year-period he provided many of the glorious paintings seen on the boxes, setting new standards for realism and accuracy. Many are still being used today, a full four decades later.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this evocative book Iain and Anne Fraser take the reader, both visitor and resident, on a personal journey through the centre of one of the world's most unforgettable cities. Working with four talented local artists (Irina Cucu, Cat Outram, Keli Clark and Catherine Stevenson) they reflect the character and cultural history of Edinburgh through 80 pages and 150 beautiful and original illustrations.Their narrative describes the split personality of Scotland's capital city, from the subdued sophistication of a dreich' February day to the flouncy and frivolous fun of the summer festival season. The dramatic character of Edinburgh and its history are world renowned. The authors highlight their favourite parts of the city centre and include a series of quirky stories discovered during their research gleaned from some of the many books written about the city.''Iain and Anne are just the guides you need for this tour. Their love for this city and their knowledge of its moods shine through .

Read more less

Book SynopsisA beautiful volume on the greatest Impressionist painters and the world that inspired them.

Read more less

Book Synopsis101 Textures in Oil & Acrylic features step-by-step instructions for mastering a variety of the most common surfaces—sand, water, metals, foliage, wood, bark, fabrics, stone, grass, and many more—in oil and acrylic paint. Each page features two similar textures for readers to paint using the easy-to-follow steps. Half the battle of achieving precise, realistic results in oil and acrylic painting comes down to one’s ability to accurately render surfaces and textures—a challenging feat for even experienced artists. Although many art instruction books focus on learning to paint specific subjects, many fall short when it comes to offering instruction on techniques that help one capture textures adequately. In 101 Textures in Oil & Acrylic, experienced and talented artist Mia Tavonatti provides artists with the essential skills required to render realistic surfaces in oil and acrylic. Artists will discover tips and tricks for working with both mediums, as well as a variety of techniques, including blending, layering, working with oil and acrylic mediums, creating an underpainting, and more. In addition to valuable step-by-step instructions, general color recommendations offer a quick start guide. This helpful guide includes an index for fast and easy reference, while a short gallery at the end of the book represents various textures in finished works of art. With its broad range of coverage, easy-to-follow instruction, and helpful tips, 101 Textures in Oil & Acrylic is a must-have art instruction book for artists of all skill levels, sure to be referenced time and again.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA masterpiece' Vanity Fair (Italy)After the best-seller The End is My Beginning, co-authored with his father Tixiano Terzani, the long-awaited Folco Terzani's comeback withan extraordinary harmony of words and images, a simple and profound story about nature, friendship and the sense of the divine.The Dog, was always used to the comforts and safety of domestic life, suddenly finds himself abandoned on the street, convinced that without his beloved master he will not be able to survive. Then a mysterious Wolf appears that will lead him to the discovery of the wild nature that the city hides and forbids. Thus, begins a long pilgrimage, a journey of initiation to the north, in the company of a pack of wolves, through caves, waterfalls, forests, mountains and lightning storms. In order to survive, the Dog will learn to hunt and will be forced to face many dangers, until he arrives at Moon Mountain where, immersed in the blinding glacier light, he will finally have to face the biggest quesTrade Review‘A masterpiece, a fable that shows what it means to be free, to trust, in something larger than ourselves and to stop and look at all that surrounds us.’ – Vanity Fair (Italy) ‘Essential … I hope that such a precious book may soon become a classic.’ – Il Manifesto

Read more less

Book SynopsisAnalyses the visual approaches and techniques of 100 great artists, and shows readers how to weave some of this magic into their own paintings.Table of ContentsIntroduction • Nudes • Figures • Landscapes • Still Life • Head Fantasy • Abstraction

Read more less

Book SynopsisA comprehensive new reference book on the influential impressionist artist Edgar Degas, providing a detailed exploration of his life and the times in which he lived as well as a gallery of his best-known and most-loved works.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn account of the Italian painter, architect and draughtsman, Raphael, one of the most influential artists of the High Renaissance. It explores his style and his compassionate depictions of Madonna and child groups, his portraits and his works based on Bible stories and myths.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA lively and expert account of Edouard Manet, one of the greatest French artists, whose striking realism has led to him being called the first modern painter. Vivid biography is combined with a superb gallery of his work, with 500 stunning reproductions and photographs.

Read more less

a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA comprehensive and practical guide to painting watercolour buildings with atmosphere, character and accuracy, from renowned artist Nicholas Poullis. Nicholas's paintings exude a wonderfully fresh and vibrant feel, with some innovative and daring compositions [] He is an artist at the peak of his creative powers.' David Curtis ROI RSMA

Read more less

Book SynopsisLearn to paint 50 vibrant watercolour animals in seven simple stages, with award-winning artist Marina Bakasova. Paint 50 Watercolour Animals is the first title in a new beginner-friendly 'how-to-paint' series. This book will focus on a range of animals, from popular pets to wild creatures; from fun flamingos and doting dogs to mischievous monkeys. Over the course of 50 simple watercolour projects, this title will teach you how to paint! Each project can be completed in just seven simple steps from initial line drawing to finished creation, using a small selection of colours and a handful of easy-to-follow watercolour techniques. Whether you want to create a hand-painted card, decorate your wall or maybe you simply want to learn the relaxing art of painting with watercolours, with 50 cute motifs to choose from, you’ll easily find something to inspire you. No prior knowledge of watercolour techniques needed – This book contains a short list of tools and materials needed to get started and a clear and informative guide to the basic techniques needed to paint this varied collection of animals. No drawing skills required – The line drawings are provided at full size, ready to copy or trace – and all the information on how to do so is included. The line drawings are also available to download for free from Bookmarked (www.bookmarkedhub.com). Suitable for artists of all levels – Marina’s clear instructions guide the reader from start to finish in a way that makes it easy for anyone to pick up a brush and learn how to paint in her loose, characterful style.Trade ReviewPaint 50 Watercolour Animals is the first title in a new beginners' series that teaches you how to paint popular subjects by simplifying them into shapes, lines and colours. The book focuses on a range of animals - from household pets to wild creatures, including meerkats and monkeys. There are 50 watercolour projects included and each of them can be completed in just seven steps. No prior knowledge is needed, so these books are ideal for complete beginners and each of the projects come complete with a line drawing provided at full size so it's ready to copy or trace. -- Leisure Painter * Issue 646 *Table of ContentsIntroduction 4, Drawing 5, Materials for painting 6, Painting techniques 8, Useful tips and tricks 10, Colours 11 Projects Llama 12, Giraffe 14, Baby deer, 16, Hippopotamus 18, Cow 20, Dog 22, Polar bear 24, Camel 26, Panda 28, Deer 30, Woodpecker 32, Frog 34, Shark 36, Gecko 38, Seal 40, Goat, Koi carp 44, Sloth 46, Meerkat 48, Beaver 50, Crab 52, Seagull 54, Stork 56, Lion 58, Tiger 60, Zebra 62, Hamster 64, Squirrel 66, Toucan 68, Gopher 70, Elephant 72, Monkey 74, Pig 76, Wolf 78, Skunk 80, Swan 82, Rabbit 84, Flamingo 86, Fox 88, Rhinoceros 90, Crocodile 92, Pufferfish 94, Peacock 96, Lemur 98, Bird 100, Butterfly 102, Owl 104, Ram 106, Mouse 108, Ostrich 110.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Mother of Creation is a universal concept and appears in many guises: Divine Mother, Holy Spirit, Goddess of Light, Shakti, Mary, Madonna, etc. This is the divine feminine of the Mother which is beloved by many. Throughout the ages, artists have recorded their spiritual visions. Think of great masters like Michelangelo and Da Vinci. Consider William Blake who was ridiculed in his life but is now revered. His visions were extraordinary and included Adam and Eve. They had a basis in truth. The Mother is also portrayed through many forms of art. But this is not just the religious and Renaissance art of western civilisation. Sacred art is everywhere. Music also has a vital role in this renaissance. Sacred music has evolved through the centuries - from western classical composers to the mystical traditions of India and the East. Music is a universal language of passion and feeling. The world is enriched by music in all its many forms. Art can be combined with music to increase its appeal to the spiritual self. So that a meditation on the Mother or Spirit – that combines art and music in this way - may help a person towards a state of enlightenment. This is an enlightenment to the Spirit of Truth – the Mother – who is instrumental in the renaissance of Man. The Spirit is the Helper and Comforter - and with us forever. So that we can live in the grace of the Spirit.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe English Romantic painter Joseph Mallord William Turner (23 April 1775–19 December 1851) was a brilliant landscape artist, a watercolourist and printmaker. His style, powerful and fierce, melding the elements with humankind are thought by many to have prepared the way for Impressionism. In his time he was controversial, but his focus on land and seascapes widened the palette of artists and their audience, and his impressionistic brushwork prepared the way for the fragmentation of the modern era. This wonderful new book brings to life his greatest achievements, with such paintings as The Fighting 'Temeraire’, Inside Tintern Abbey and Rain, Steam and Speed (The Great Western Railway).

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn essential introduction to the life and work of J.M.W. Turner, whose pioneering explorations into oil and watercolors transformed landscape painting and continue to offer revelatory and definitive interpretations of his time J.M.W. Turner (1775–1851) is arguably Britain’s greatest painter. An extraordinary and prolific artist of incredible range, his pioneering explorations in oils and watercolors, his innovative use of color and the proliferation of his work through print media enabled him to forge a stellar reputation in his own time. Yet his dramatic landscapes, marine paintings, and revelatory scenes of industry, war, and contemporary life are as captivating to audiences today as they were then. This book is an essential introduction to the life and work of this influential artist. Tracing Turner’s journey from his modest beginnings and formative years, through his tours and engagement with the British and Continental landscape, al

Read more less

Book SynopsisOccasionally, when something seems very familiar you lose sight of what makes it so special: Flemish Masters. From van Eyck to Bruegel sets out to counteract this effect and opens our eyes once again to the revolution that took place in the Low Countries in the 15th and 16th centuries that shaped the course of European art. In 48 lavishly illustrated analyses, Matthias Depoorter explores how painters such as Van Eyck, Van der Weiden, Massys, Bosch, and Bruegel reached unprecedented heights, and are rightfully considered innovators to this day. The defining factor was their perfecting and mastery of the oil painting technique as well as their ground-breaking attention to optical lighting effects. The new technical possibilities offered a different way of looking at the world and ultimately a new way of painting. No less innovative was the level of detail. These painters were thoroughly acquainted with each other’s work—this volume shows the fundamental artistic cross-fertilization. A must-read for anyone who wants to fall in love with the old masterpieces anew.

Read more less

Book SynopsisHailed as the first American-born art movement to have a worldwide influence, Abstract Expressionism denotes the non-representational use of paint as a means of personal expression. It emerged in America in the 1940s, with lead protagonists including Jackson Pollock, Philip Guston, Robert Motherwell, Mark Rothko, and Willem de Kooning. Abstract Expressionism spawned many different stylistic tendencies but two particularly prominent sub-categories: action painting, exemplified by de Kooning and Pollock, and color field painting, made most famous by Rothko. Throughout, Abstract Expressionists strove to convey emotions and ideas through the making of marks, through forms, textures, shades, and the particular quality of brushstrokes. The movement favored large-scale canvases, and embraced the role of accident or chance. With featured works from 20 key Abstract Expressionist artists, this book introduces the movement which shifted the center of art gravity from Paris to New York and remains for many the golden moment of American art.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA hairless, ghostly figure on a bridge. The sky orange-red above him. His hands raised to his ears, his mouth wide in a haunting wail. In painting The Scream, Edvard Munch (1863–1944) created Mona Lisa for our times. The shriek of his iconic figure reverberates around the world, its echo resounding in the work of Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns, Martin Kippenberger, Marlene Dumas, and Tracey Emin. This introductory book surveys Munch’s staggering capacity for psychodrama in The Scream and beyond. With rich illustration, it looks at the lurid, dark, and deeply modern visions that made up the artist’s response to relationships and emotions. These compelling images, regarded by the artist himself as a means of “free confession,” remain as magnetic today as they were on the brink of modernism.

Read more less

Book SynopsisKeep the page in your book with this gorgeous pack of 10 foiled bookmarks, printed on both sides, with a silky ribbon and featuring artwork by Vincent van Gogh. In a letter to his sister Wilhemina, Van Gogh wrote: 'Often it seems to me night is even more richly coloured than day.' In this night painting, the sky is Prussian blue, ultramarine and cobalt, with sparkling yellow gaslights and stars. The spot depicted is a view from his asylum room at Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA FLAME TREE NOTEBOOK. Beautiful and luxurious the journals combine high-quality production with magnificent art. Perfect as a gift, and an essential personal choice for writers, notetakers, travellers, students, poets and diarists. Features a wide range of well-known and modern artists, with new artworks published throughout the year.BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED. The highly crafted covers are printed on foil paper, embossed then foil stamped, complemented by the luxury binding and rose red end-papers. The covers are created by our artists and designers who spend many hours transforming original artwork into gorgeous 3d masterpieces that feel good in the hand, and look wonderful on a desk or table.PRACTICAL, EASY TO USE. Flame Tree Notebooks come with practical features too: a pocket at the back for scraps and receipts; two ribbon markers to help keep track of more than just a to-do list; robust ivory text paper, printed with lines; and when you need to collect other notes o

Read more less

Book SynopsisPart of a series of exciting and luxurious Flame Tree Notebooks. Combining high-quality production with magnificent fine art, the covers are printed on foil in five colours, embossed then foil stamped. And they're powerfully practical: a pocket at the back for receipts and scraps, two bookmarks and a solid magnetic side flap. These are perfect for personal use and make a dazzling gift. This example is based on a detail from Almond Blossom, 1890 by Vincent van Gogh (1853–90), and printed on silver.

Read more less

Book SynopsisRecognized as a major figure in postwar American painting, Richard Diebenkorn (1922-1993) was an artist strongly identified with California but whose work is beloved throughout the United States and the rest of the world. This catalogue covers Diebenkorn's career and focuses on the artist's inner life and purposes as revealed in his paintings.

Read more less

Book SynopsisDave White introduces the simple but effective techniques that he uses to paint stunning, dramatic seascapes with beautiful and realistic skies. He demonstrates spattering, blending backgrounds, painting horizons, finger painting clouds and foam. There is expert advice on the anatomy of waves and how they rise and collapse, creating ripples, surf, foam and spray. Clear instructions show how to paint effective reflections and beaches to improve your seascapes. The sky section shows effective techniques for painting all types of cloud, with some innovative methods such as tipping up the surface to let dilute paint run, to create cirrus clouds. Dave's method of creating depth in sea, beach and sky using lines projected from the vanishing point will radically improve readers' seascapes. There is a section of moods and sunsets full of beautiful, dramatic examples. Finally three step by step projects show how to paint a beach panorama with a rolling wave, a spectacular sunset over a calm sea and waves crashing on rocks.Trade ReviewIt's difficult for many painters to achieve realistic looking skies and water. Dave demonstrates how to paint both so that you can refine your skills. Simple techniques that any can follow. Take a closer look at waves and cloud formations, I really enjoyed these two sections. There are three step-by-step projects and examples of finished work. Discover how to add a little drama to your acrylic paintings. * Karen Platt- yarnsandfabrics.co.uk *Few artists can resist the temptation to introduce a bit of drama when it comes to painting the sea, and Dave White is no exception. It is, after all, a bit boring if you just paint flat calm and there’s nothing like a good storm to get the juices flowing. Add a nice ripe sunset and you’ll be getting through your dark greens, rich blues and deep reds like there’s no tomorrow! It’s perhaps unfair to start a review like that as this is one of the most thorough and useful books on painting seascapes that I’ve seen in a long time. Dave White is more than sound on achieving that tricky balance between solidity and fluidity in breaking waves and I particularly like his trick of using gulls that skim the surface (as they do) to give scale. His clouds are similarly light, fluffy and ethereal without looking half-hearted or like clumps of cotton wool stuck onto a Cerulean wash. For all that, it’s the drama that’ll strike you on a quick flick through, but you shouldn’t let it put you off. The sea is dramatic and, as I hinted earlier, it should be. Some of the treatments here are a bit over the top for me but, equally, they might be just what you want. In terms of technique and presentation, though, this one’s hard to beat. * Artbookreview.net *January 2016 Painting the sea is one of the greatest challenges for the artist. Constantly in motion, it has far more substance than other types of water that simply flow, or are completely still. To freeze a moment in time while still maintaining that sense of fluidity is not an easy thing to do. Almost all books on painting the sea tend at some point to be a trifle dramatic, and this is no exception. Dave white includes night-time scenes, sunsets and the last rays breaking through backlit clouds, even a helicopter rescue. On waves, spray, translucency and the rather neat trick of including low flying gulls to provide scale, Dave is solidly sound. There’s plenty of variety demonstrations and good solid instruction. * The Artist *Living near the coast in Hampshire, Dave White finds constant inspiration from the sea and skies around him, and in his latest book, sea and sky in acrylics, he shares with us some of the essential elements off of capturing a subject that is constantly moving and changing. Using his preferred medium of acrylics he opens the book with a brief description of the materials you will need, then moves swiftly on to colour and the specific colours you will need to follow the demonstrations in this book, including colour mixes for sky, sea, rocks and beaches for example. The first part concentrates on the sea, describing the techniques to create the rising and falling waves, show wind direction, ripples splashes and reflections. The middle section looks at the sky; clouds, moods and sunsets; then the rest of the book is devoted to projects – a beach panorama, a sunset and waves crashing on the rocks – all with excellent step-by-step diagrams and clear photography. * The Leisure Painter *Table of ContentsIntroduction Materials Colour and opacity Techniques SEA: The splash zone A rising wave A falling wave Surf and ripples Reflections Beaches Wind direction SKY: Selecting a vanishing point Clouds Moods and Sunsets PROJECTS: Beachcomber The Heavens Declare Barton Corner

Read more less

Book SynopsisA comprehensive course in landscape painting with acrylics by popular author and tutor Charles Evans. Charles' no-nonsense techniques and engaging writing style bring acrylic painting within the grasp of anyone keen to get started in this versatile and popular medium. The book begins with excellent advice for the beginner, including easy drawing for painting, composition, easy perspective, light and shade, colour, and how to use acrylics with different painting styles. There are six full step-by-step painting projects ranging from simple skies to snowy landscapes with horses, each of which is supported by additional exercises and techniques. The step-by-step projects allow aspiring artists to put into practice their new-found skills, and produce six stunning paintings of their own, in a range of styles. A pull-out outline drawing is provided for every project, and Charles shows how to transfer these onto the painting surface. Charles' accessible and irreverent style makes learning to paint with acrylics easy and fun.Trade ReviewFebruary 2018 For those wanting to try acrylics but nervous of starting a new medium, Charles Evan's Acrylics for the Absolute Beginner will be just what you need. Popular artist and tutor, Charles has an engaging style of painting and writing that makes it all seem so easy. There's advice on drawing for painting, composition, perspective, light and shade, colour and different painting styles. The main part of the book comprises six step-by-step projects for you to work through, as well as extra exercises and techniques as appropriate. A pull-out outline drawing for every project is provided, which does the hard work for you so you can simply get on with the painting. * The Leisure Painter *This book begins with an explanation of basic brushstrokes, exercises in simple shapes and hints on working from photographs, moving quickly on to trees, figures, animals and boats. The book is based around a series of 12 pre-printed outlines that provide the basis for complete demonstrations, practising composition, perspective, glazing and texture along the way. -- The SAA * The SAA Catalogue 19/20 *Table of ContentsIntroduction Materials Easy drawing for painting Light and shade Getting started Painting in the watercolour style Step-by-step project: Sunlit field Painting in the oil style Step-by-step project Step-by-step project: Woodland on paper Painting buildings and rocks Step-by-step project: Buildings Painting water Step-by-step project: Waterfall on paper Painting animals Step-by-step project: Horses in snow Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis is the fascinating story of the world's most numerous creatures, illustrated by stunning images from the American Museum of Natural History's Rare Book Collection.Trade Review“Engel, a University of Kansas biology professor, delves into the American Museum of Natural History’s rare book collection, specifically its ‘thousands of marvelously illustrated books’ about insects, to create a book as aesthetically pleasing as it is informative. Insects, Engel explains, are indeed innumerable, with perhaps as many as 30 million extant species. They can also be set apart from the rest of the planet’s life in many respects, since ‘insects were among the earliest animals to transition to land, the first to fly, the first to sing, the first to disguise themselves with camouflage, the first to evolve societies, the first to develop agriculture, and the first to use an abstract language.’ Engel covers insect diversity, evolution, ecology, and physiology, among other topics, while including intriguing vignettes about early entomologists, including Maria Sibylla Merian, Julius T.C. Ratzeburg, and Jan Swammerdam. With so much ground to cover, Engel doesn’t go into great detail about any one point, but there’s enough substance to satisfy most readers. The images, however, are the stars of this work, which will delight every entomophile who turns its pages.” — Publishers Weekly“Engel, a University of Kansas biology professor, delves into the American Museum of Natural History’s rare book collection, specifically its ‘thousands of marvelously illustrated books’ about insects, to create a book as aesthetically pleasing as it is informative. Insects, Engel explains, are indeed innumerable, with perhaps as many as 30 million extant species. They can also be set apart from the rest of the planet’s life in many respects, since ‘insects were among the earliest animals to transition to land, the first to fly, the first to sing, the first to disguise themselves with camouflage, the first to evolve societies, the first to develop agriculture, and the first to use an abstract language.’ Engel covers insect diversity, evolution, ecology, and physiology, among other topics, while including intriguing vignettes about early entomologists, including Maria Sibylla Merian, Julius T.C. Ratzeburg, and Jan Swammerdam. With so much ground to cover, Engel doesn’t go into great detail about any one point, but there’s enough substance to satisfy most readers. The images, however, are the stars of this work, which will delight every entomophile who turns its pages.” — Publishers Weekly

Read more less

Book SynopsisA comprehensive guide to direct painting (characterised by bold, expressive brushwork and a painterly, atmospheric surface). It covers the history of the direct methods in both Europe and America. From there, it includes detailed step-by-step lessons and discussions on drawing structure, broken and smooth brushwork and colour development.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA true celebration of the talent of Kerby Rosanes and his fans, this book features the most striking images from Kerby's bestselling World series.A 16-page full-colour section showcases spectacular artworks that have been coloured by Kerby’s fans. Stylistic comments as well as tips and tricks from Kerby accompany each piece, so readers can create their own colouring masterpieces. The same artworks appear again in the black-and-white section, along with a selection of Kerby’s favourite illustrations from across the series, giving readers the opportunity to recreate the stunning effects.Please note: this book contains material previously published in Fragile World, Worlds Within Worlds and Mythic World.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn 1954, following her death, Frida Kahlo's possessions were locked away in the Casa Azul in Mexico City, her lifelong home. Half a century later, her collection of clothing, jewellery, cosmetics and other personal items was rediscovered. Frida Kahlo: Making Her Self Up offers a fresh perspective on the life story of this extraordinary artist, whose charisma and entirely individual way of dressing made her one of the most photographed women of her time. Specially-commissioned photographs show her distinctive Mexican outfits alongside her self-portraits, an unprecedented pairing that is enriched by iconic images taken in her lifetime.Trade ReviewPraise for V&A Exhibition Frida Kahlo: Making Her Self Up which accompanies this book: ‘A room of her personal belongings, which had been sealed since her death, was opened, and its contents put on display at the Blue House –it is a real coup for the V&A to be able to borrow this collection.’ Jess Cartner-Morley, The Guardian 'an extraordinary testimony to suffering and spirit' The Observer 'Frida Kahlo: Making Her Self Up is a larger version of the inaugural viewing of the Casa Azul stash that took place in Mexico City earlier this year. It is intimate and epic in scale, the juxtapositioning of artworks with the items that appear in them — here some jewellery, there a headdress — compelling.’ Anna Murphy, The Times ‘Whatever your preconceptions about Kahlo, it’s hard to leave this show unimpressed by her huge resilience, and without feeling just a little in love with this extraordinary woman.’ Mark Hudson, Daily Telegraph 'Claire Wilcox and Circe Henestrosa… have masterminded a celebration of the artist’s style.’ Karen Dacre, Evening Standard ‘The V&A has now put a generous selection of these intimate contents on show, amplifying them with films of her in action, more photographs, her jewellery, her costumes and a small but gripping array of her fiery self-portraits.’ Waldemar Januszczak, Sunday Times CultureTable of ContentsIntroduction: Fashioning Frida Claire Wilcox and Circe Henstrosa Trouble in the Blue House Hilda Trujillo Soto I FAMILY AND CHILDHOOD Quetzalcoatl's Grin: The Changing Face of Art and Culture in Frida Kahlo's Mexico Adrian Locke II ADOLESCENCE AND ADULTHOOD Appearances Can Be Deceiving - Frida Kahlo's Construction of Identity: Disability, Ethnicity and Dress Circe Henestrosa Frida Kahlo's Jewellery Clare Phillips III JEWELLERY Frida Kahlo's Wardrobe Chloe Sayer Frida Kahlo: Making Her Self Up Claire Wilcox IV COSMETICS Frida Kahlo: Posing, Composing, Exposing Gannit Ankori V ORTHOPAEDIC DEVICES The Resplandor: Cultural and Spiritual Significance in Two Self-Portraits Kirstin Kennedy Frida Redressed Oriana Baddeley VI MEDICINES

Read more less

Book SynopsisLearn even more paint pouring techniques with The Art of Paint Pouring: Swipe, Swirl & Spin. In The Art of Paint Pouring, you learned the basics of creating fluid art—from the essential tools and materials to the most popular techniques. Now with The Art of Paint Pouring: Swipe, Swirl & Spin, you can build on your existing knowledge of paintpouring by learning many new techniques and variations on your favorites to create your own art. Written and illustrated by Amanda VanEver, author of Walter Foster’s much-anticipated The Art of Paint Pouring, The Art of Paint Pouring: Swipe, Swirl & Spin includes everything you need to take your skills to the next level, whether you are a beginning or an established paint pouring artist. From learning variations on several popular techniques—including flip cup, dip, swirling, spinning, and swiping—as well as more intermediate and advanced pouring techniques, you'll soon be creating colorful, textured fluid art on a variety of surfaces. Amanda VanEver's YouTube channel, Amanda's Designs, has a huge following of subscribers who watch her weekly videos featuring simple instructions for creating various types of fluid art, from pieces done on canvases and other traditional surfaces, like wood, to objects such as jewelry, bookmarks, coasters, clocks, and vases. With her expertise, you'll learn about: The tools and materials needed for paint pouring How to mix paint to the right consistency required for pouring Tips for creating complementary color palettes How to finish a painting so that it lasts And much more The Art of Paint Pouring features beginning as well as advanced pouring techniques for a well-rounded, appealing approach to fluid art. Also from the Fluid Art series, refresh your paint-pouring skills and learn new techniques with: The Art of Paint Pouring and The Art of Paint Marbling.Trade Review"A well-rounded, appealing approach to this uniquely fluid art form." * Midwest Book Review *Table of ContentsIntroduction Tools & Materials Color Basics Preparing to Paint Creating Cells Finishing Artwork Saving Leftover Paint Step-by-step ProjectsDirty PourFlip CupFlip & DragStraw-Blown PaintVariation: Hair Dryer-Blown PaintDipVariation: Wandering Tree RingSpinning PourString PullVariation: Feather String PullNegative SpaceSwipeEmbellishing ArtJewelry & BookmarksCoastersInspiration Gallery About the Artist

Read more less

Book SynopsisOutdoor painting tips and more from the best landscape painters working today. Many painters enjoy working outdoors when the weather is good, but they also need to know how to deal with it when the weather changes! This book includes the best instruction on the special challenges of painting landscapes outdoors from a variety of the best plein-air artists working today in all major media-oil, pastel, watercolor, acrylic, and gouache. It includes: - Materials, site selection, and practical tips - Values, shapes, composition, color, and elements of landscape painting - Bringing outdoor studies back into the studio - Complete start-to-finish demonstrations - Hundreds of gorgeous images - A wealth of knowledge from a variety of instructors

Read more less

Book SynopsisHave you ever had a great idea but didn’t know where to start? The rules of creativity are simple. Founder and CEO of creative network Zealous, Guy Armitage shows you how to unlock your creative potential with seven easy steps. Everyone is born creative (have you ever met a child who wasn’t creative? Neither have we). Our experiences directly impact our ability to stoke our imaginations and let that creativity flow – and that is what this book aims to unlock. Part manifesto, part how-to guide, using humour and simple, playful prompts and exercises, Guy Armitage arms you with the tools you need to unleash your creative spark.From making space for creativity in your life to creating your own inspiration, and from planning your project efficiently to seeking proper feedback that will spur you on, Armitage addresses so many of the restraints that hold us all back in one way or another. Change is never easy (and if you want effective change, neither should it be) but the invaluable lessons found within will help enable you to rediscover your creative self.Whatever type of creative you are, this is the only book you’ll need to get started, stay motivated, keep your creativity flowing and make your ideas happen.Trade ReviewThe exact book I need when I want to get my creative juices flowing! -- Lulu Mayo, illustratorWe're all creative and this book shows us how to unlock that creativity in an entertaining and fun read -- Tabish Khan, art critic, Londonist

Read more less

Book SynopsisA FLAME TREE NOTEBOOK. Beautiful and luxurious the journals combine high-quality production with magnificent art. Perfect as a gift, and an essential personal choice for writers, notetakers, travellers, students, poets and diarists. Features a wide range of well-known and modern artists, with new artworks published throughout the year.BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED. The highly crafted covers are printed on foil paper, embossed then foil stamped, complemented by the luxury binding and rose red end-papers. The covers are created by our artists and designers who spend many hours transforming original artwork into gorgeous 3d masterpieces that feel good in the hand, and look wonderful on a desk or table.PRACTICAL, EASY TO USE. Flame Tree Notebooks come with practical features too: a pocket at the back for scraps and receipts; two ribbon markers to help keep track of more than just a to-do list; robust ivory text paper, printed with lines; and when you need to collect other notes or scraps of paper the magnetic side flap keeps everything neat and tidy.THE ARTIST. In a letter to his sister Wilhemina, Van Gogh wrote: 'Often it seems to me night is even more richly coloured than day.' In this night painting, the sky is Prussian blue, ultramarine and cobalt, with sparkling yellow gaslights and stars. THE FINAL WORD. As William Morris said, "Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful."

Read more less

Book SynopsisPart of a series of exciting and luxurious Flame Tree Notebooks. Combining high-quality production with magnificent fine art, the covers are printed on foil in five colours, embossed then foil stamped. And they're powerfully practical: a pocket at the back for receipts and scraps and two bookmarks. These are perfect for personal use and make a dazzling gift. This example is Hokusai's The Great Wave. The most notable period in Hokusai’s artistic life was the latter part of his career, beginning in 1830 when he was 70 years old. He began the series of landscapes he is most famous for: ‘Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji’, which included The Great Wave, off Kanagawa, probably his most iconic image.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTable of ContentsIntroduction • 1. Ways of Looking at Pictures • 2. Land and Sea • 3. Portraits • 4. Everyday Things • 5. History and Mythology • 6. The Christian World • 7. Creating Patterns on Flat Surfaces • 8. Tradition • 9. Design and Organization • 10. The Depiction of Space • 11. Formal Analysis • 12. Hidden Meanings • 13. Quality

Read more less

Book SynopsisDrawing and Painting Beauitful Faces is an inspiring, mixed media workbook on how to draw and paint beautiful, fashion illustration-style faces. Author Jane Davenport is a beloved artist, and popular international workshop instructor known by her thousands of students and fans for her over-the-top, enthusiastic, happy and encouraging style. In this book, she guides you step-by-step through the foundations of drawing a face, developing successful features, creating skintones, playing with bright colors, shading, highlighting and much more as you learn to create amazing mixed media portraits. Master a variety of techniques that employ pencil, marker, pen, watercolor, acrylic paint, ink, pastel, and ephemera as you happily dance your way through the exercises in this brilliant guide.

Read more less