Pen or brush and ink Books

Book SynopsisIn this beautiful book, Naomi Okamoto passes on her experience and knowledge of Sumi-e – traditional Japanese ink painting that uses only ink, white space and simple brushstrokes to capture the essence of an object, person, animal or scene. With her deep understanding of both the technical and spiritual aspects of this ancient art, she guides the reader expertly through the materials required and the techniques involved, successfully conveying as she does so the cultural and historical background to this exquisite artform. There are numerous ink paintings and simple exercises throughout, making this book ideal for anyone wishing to acquire the skills associated with Sumi-e, as well as an understanding of the philosophy behind it.Trade ReviewArtist and educator Okamoto’s guide explores sumi-e, a type of Japanese ink drawing done exclusively with brushes and ink washes that combines calligraphic lines and blank space in subtle drawings and paintings. In this quiet, restrained art form related to Zen Buddhism, reality is conveyed through suggestion and simplification rather than through detail or precision. Numbered, sequenced drawings guide the reader’s hand in projects presented step-by-step. Lots of written description accompanies these designs for a gentle introduction to the technique. Materials, special techniques, composition, and color are discussed. Subject matter includes still life, landscapes, figures, flowers, and animals. VERDICT Artistically inclined readers hoping to try something different will find many possibilities in this volume. * Library Journal USA *August 2015 The Art of Sumi-e by artist Naomi Okamoto, describes the traditional painting technique that uses only ink, white space and simple brushstrokes. It aims to capture the essence of its subject based on spiritual processes within the artist: simplifying what is in front of you then using your won intuitive expression. There's plenty of good advice on the materials and supports you will need to get you started. The author then describes how to use the ink and brush, showing clearly how to adjust the pressure to make the marks you want, and inviting you to copy originals to familiarise yourself with the techniques. Themed exercises follow, including still life, landscapes and figures before moving on to colour in Japanese ink painting, flowers animals and landscapes. The book closes with ideas of motifs for cards and stationery plus that all-important seal to personalise your work. The book makes an ideal introduction to the art of Sumi-e with a systematic approach and simple exercises and is well illustrated throughout. * Leisure Painter, The *July 2015 Sumi-E is what we generally regard as the classic Japanese art of ink painting that uses a simple medium, the white of the paper, and carefully crafted and placed brushstrokes to create an image. The essence of it is just that, the essence of the subject, which is usually a natural form. This is a complete guide that includes advice on materials – particularly the specialised brushes and papers – as well as instruction in the basics of painting with ink, both black and colour. From here, a series of exercises gets you practising with shapes – a fish with a single stroke for instance. Naomi also includes the philosophical aspects of Japanese painting, which is as much a state of mind as a technical exercise. In the foregoing example, for instance, it is she, not the imagined fish, that feels the touch of the water. It’s a hard concept to convey, but she does it rather well. As your skills and confidence (and you need to be confident to achieve the single-stroke structure) develop, you’ll move on to flowers, animals, landscapes and even figures. These last are perhaps the most rewarding as they turn the whole idea of figurative work on its head, with less becoming more and detail only barely hinted at. This is as comprehensive a guide as you could wish to a fascinating and absorbing art form. * Artbookreview.net *

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Book SynopsisDraw Yourself Calm welcomes readers into the mindful practice of slow drawing with 25 beautiful patterns inspired by nature. A practical and effective book for increasing creativity while reducing stress. With all the stimulation and stress of daily life, we each need to find ways of slowing down. Drawing simple, repetitive shapes relaxes the brain: attention flows away from sources of stress and centres on the act of putting pen to paper. The book is organized into three sections. The introduction covers slow drawing and mindfulness, and how to weave slow drawing into everyday life. Chapter 1 dives into slow drawing warm-ups and exercises aimed at helping readers notice what they see, feel, and hear while they draw. Chapter 2 takes the reader through 25 elegant and inspiring patterns of all kinds. These patterns can be approached in any order, and readers can choose how best to fit slow drawing into their lives, whether through daily or weekly drawing. Amy Maricle offers a playful, no-right-or-wrong approach that empowers readers to slow draw in a way that is creative, but not pressure-filled. This book offers a space for readers to nurture themselves creatively and spiritually by providing all the tools and inspiration needed to develop a slow drawing practice.Trade ReviewThe antidote or at least the reprieve from the daily stresses of life. I’m loving this book. It’s beautifully designed and printed. Really nice quality. The instruction is clear and I find it very accessible for me. It’s a tool of both great simplicity and complexity together and as I create, I decide where I want to go with each pattern. Do I just need some calming time with guidance and no decisions? Then I can follow the pattern prompt. Do I want to dig further to see what arises in and for me? Amy guides you along, opening up our ideas, and gently questioning. I don’t always know what I need until I begin with some slow drawing time but Amy has you covered in this book. Benefits I have found beyond my gratefully received calm are also improved focus, openness, dropping the idea of perfection, observation, time for free thinking and flow, and respite from the many challenges of each day. Taking the time in this practice really calms my (chronically ill) central nervous system making it an important asset in my health needs. What a bonus. The pricing is great. Affordable and yet of higher value than the cost! If there was something I didn’t like about the book I would include it but I’ve not found it yet! Definitely recommend. -- Jenny Malone * Amazon Customer Review *I was lucky enough to be given a copy of this book and I'm so grateful as it's been a revelation. The basic idea is to slow down the act of drawing so it becomes a mindful exercise. This allows you to experience the pen moving across the page, to watch each shape being formed. It takes some getting used to but once you concentrate on the act of drawing, rather than producing a drawing, you forget about perfection and instead enjoy what you are producing. The patterns provided in the book are just a stepping stone, or gentle hand holding, there is just so much scope for where you can go with this material. I have never found doodling particularly meditative as I have to keep on reminding myself how to draw the patterns but with this book it doesn't matter. That's both the joy and the drive behind this wonderful book. If you don't think you are artistic I would almost guarantee you'll love the images you produce following the guidance in this book, I certainly did and I've only just scratched the surface of what's on offer. -- Christine Jones * Amazon Customer Review *Just back from holiday, unpacking and usual yucky catch-up stuff, this was waiting on the mat. I couldn’t resist a quick flick through - oh my word! It’s beautifully printed, a delight to hold, intuitive and accessible, jam packed with advice, tips and design ideas. Amy truly is the master of her craft and shares her wealth of knowledge in this affordable book. Do yourself a favour - buy it and ‘draw yourself calm’ - my money says you won’t regret it. * Amazon Customer Review *For someone that gets quite stressed at work this is an absolute dream of a book, I wasn’t to sure to begin with but found myself immersed into a world of slow drawing… I actually couldn’t wait to get home to switch off and enjoy a bit of me time with my pencil and pad.. easy to follow exercises and for someone that is not an experienced drawer. I would highly recommend -- Juliet Naybur * Amazon Customer Review *An interesting book - a book designed to teach you how to relax while being creative - taking the stress away from drawing. It starts with mindfulness exercises - creative meditation, allowing your body and mind to flow on the page. If like me you get a bit stressed and tight when drawing this book will help set you free. Have a go. -- Barbara Marjoram * Amazon Customer Review *With all the stress of life, we each need to find ways of slowing down. Drawing simple, repetitive shapes relaxes the brain; attention flows from sources of stress to centre on putting pen to paper. This practical book aims to increase creativity while reducing stress. * Machine Knitting Monthly *I was really excited to receive this particular book 'Draw yourself calm by Amy Maricle' because it encourages everyone to get creative, you don't need any prior experience. I often speak with people in store who want to try something creative but don't feel confident enough and worry that what they create won't be 'good enough'. This particular style of art is a great place to start. Though this book is called 'Draw yourself calm' it is not about drawing detailed pictures, it is instead encouraging you to take part in what the author calls 'Slow drawing' which I would say is like mark making, similar to doodling or Zen tangling in a way. Mark Making is one of the most basic forms of art, which we are encouraged to do from a very young age, as soon as our little hands can hold a pencil, we begin the journey. Unfortunately, a lot of us as we get older forget that mark making can be fun, and as this book points out, therapeutic, and so we don't do it enough. It is something that all ages can do and enjoy. I love that this book is encouraging us to get back into it in a new mindful way. Another great thing about the activities included in this book is that they require a limited number of materials, so even those on a tight budget can have a go at them. If you have a pen and some scraps of paper you can give them a go. If you want to take your artwork up a notch then you could choose to invest in some of the recommended art materials detailed in the book. The author, Amy Maricle, is a qualified art therapist who is keen to promote mindfulness throughout the book so it has some great information on how taking part in the activities will help you de-stress and keep calm. There is a combination of full step-by-step activities and some guided suggested patterns to have a go at. There are plenty of photos and example pieces to inspire you too. At the end of the book, the author even gives you some tips and ideas on what you could do with your finished 'Slow Drawings' artwork which I think is fantastic. If you are totally new to art but want to give it a go, especially drawing of any kind, then I would recommend this book as a great starting point. You can take the skills you learn from it and progress on to more detailed drawings from these great basic skills. If you are looking for a book that will reignite your creative spark then again I think this book would be good. It takes you right back to basics and gets you to open up your mind and be free with your mark making which is essentially the start of all art. -- Kerri-Ann Betty * Betty's Books *Table of ContentsMeet Amy 8 Introduction 10: What is Slow Drawing? 12; Tools and Materials 14; Weaving Slow Drawing into Your Day 16 Slow Drawing Warm-Ups 18: Intention-setting Visualisation 20; Drawing with Curiosity 22; Questions for Reflection 24; Looking for Inspiration in Natures 25 Slow Drawing Patterns 28: Slowing Down and Tuning In Through the Senses: Fan Pattern 30; Asking ‘What If...?’ Cobble Pattern 34; Be an Art Explorer: Twist Pattern 38; Where is Your Edge? Edge Pattern 42; Finding Your Own Way: Innovate 46; Don't Make Art: Chicken Scratch Pattern 50; Using Negative Space: Bend Pattern 54; Locating Your Breath: Exhale Pattern 58; How Gently Can You Draw? Milkweed Pattern 62; Playing with Repetition and Variation: Coil Pattern 66; Focus on Going Slow: Bloom Pattern 70; Procuring Patience: Dot Clouds Pattern 74; Listening In: Fish Pattern 80; You Deserve Creative Time: Cracked Pattern 84; Drawing Inspiration from Nature: Lichen Pattern 88; Connection and Disconnection: Cells Pattern 92; Looking Deeply at Nature: Kelp Pattern 96; What Feels Good to Draw? Squiggle Pattern 100; Making Space for the Imagination: Flock Pattern 104; Let Your Hand Surf the Ocean: Wave Pattern 110; The Comfort of Round, Repetitive Forms: Mussel Pattern 114; Getting in the Zone: Rice Pattern 118; Find What Piques Your Interest: Beneath Pattern 122; Weaving in Ink: Cloth Pattern 126; Room to Explore: Wander Pattern 132 Creative Cues: What to Do with Your Slow Drawings 136: The Beauty of Imperfection 140; Index 142; Acknowledgements 144; Resources 144

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Book SynopsisThe Art of the Travel Journal offers all the techniques, ideas, inspiration, and step-by-step instructions needed to create artful, one-of-a-kind journals filled with drawings, ephemera, lettering, and more that document our lives traveling around the world—or around the corner. Trade Review“The Art of the Travel Journal is an instructional art book whose cheerful aesthetic and accessible instructions are sure to kindle a creative spark.” * Foreword Reviews *"All facets of journaling are covered, from start to finish: pre-trip planning, setting intentions, gathering supplies, staying motivated, and how to archive completed journals. A comprehensive, methodical, profusely illustrated, and inspiring 'how to' guide." * Midwest Book Review *“This beautiful book will help you discover (or rediscover) how to journal creatively and beautifully, sharing techniques for sketching, lettering and decorating with meaningful mementos like tickets and maps. The result will be a wonderful souvenir documenting your travels and will be a wonderful thing to look back on, maybe even passing down through your family’s generations.” * Johnny Jet *Table of ContentsCONTENTS INTRODUCTION How I Started Travel Journaling How to Use This Book 1 Getting Started Definition of Journaling Terms | A Brief History of Travel Journaling | Writing About Travel | Journaling | Starting a Travel Journal | The Benefits of Keeping a Travel Journal | 2 Materials Essential Supplies | Other Tools | Creating a Travel Art Kit | LESSON: Create Your Own Washi Tape Sampler | LESSON: Make Your Own Watercolor Tin | 3 Telling Stories Pre-trip Planning | Ways to Document Your Travels | 4 Collecting and Composition Ephemera | Staying Organized | LESSON: Making Ephemera Envelopes and Pockets | LESSON: Creating Artful Postcards | Collage Tips and Ideas | LESSON: Make a Collaged Travel Zine | 5 Journal Spread Ideas Journaling Formats | Themed Journal Spreads | Hand Lettering | LESSON: Lettering with Brush Pens | Using Color Palettes to Tell a Story | 6 Honing Your Habit Finding Your Journaling Style | Staying Committed | Tips and Advice to Live By | 7 Guest Artists

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewWhen this arrived, I felt the need to create a new term for the style and came up with Soft Realism. That’s to say: detailed, sharp outlines in ink with a more impressionistic background supplied with pleasantly subtle pencil work. It’s not pen & wash because pencils capture a lot more detail as well as graduation and shading. There’s no shortage of books on coloured pencil work, but this is, I think, unique and Helen Hanson explains both her aims and working methods thoroughly. -- Henry Malt, The Artist * The Artist *

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Book SynopsisLearn the unique art of crosshatching and create stunning works of art with expert guidance from August Lamm. How to Crosshatch in Pen & Ink begins with a potted history of the artform, and elucidates exactly what crosshatching entails, and where it came from. After a helpful exploration of the materials and media that a crosshatcher may need, there then begins a practical guide to the very basics of crosshatching, approaching concepts such as how to look accurately, and how to depict light, shape, and shadow.Once readers have the essentials under their belt, there are more complicated subjects such as anatomy, portraiture and still lifes to tackle. For each topic, August uses a combination of fine art examples, illustrations and step-by-step tutorials to take the reader through the fascinating and accessible process of crosshatching, from perception to execution. This is the essential, comprehensive guide to this fascinating artform, and will appeal to complete beginners alongside long-time aficionados of the practice.

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Book SynopsisCreate your own chibi world with fun and adorable step-by-step drawing exercises, including over 60 fantasy creatures and characters featuring different accessories, clothing, facial expressions, and poses.These fantasy creatures and animals will make you squeal with delight! Chibi is Japanese slang for “short,” and the characters in Cute Chibi Mythical Beasts & Magical Monsters live up to this description with their cute roly-poly bodies that make them extremely lovable and huggable.Phoebe Im, creator of Bobblejot, has a cute and easy drawing style that is made accessible through this how-to book for artists of all levels. Cute Chibi Mythical Beasts & Magical Monsters features easy-to-follow instructions to help you enjoy the world of chibi, incorporating dynamic expressions and poses to challenge your skills. Along with the step-by-step instructions, there are inspiration pages with fun accessories and clothing, facial expressions, and different poses as well as a digital workshop to guide you on how to make quick drawings on your phone or tablet.Learn how to draw these fantasy creatures in cute chibi style: Gnome Troll Mermaid Fairy Golem Cyclops Big Foot Unicorn Dragons (various species) Vampire Zombie Chimera Pegasus Phoenix Loch Ness Monster Griffon Cerberus Sphinx Werewolf Practice and expand your drawing skills as you create adorable chibi beasts and creatures with this fun and accessible book.Table of ContentsHello! What Is Chibi? How to Use This Book Tools Tips and Tricks Creature KeySlither and Squawk Aqrabuamelu, Basilisk, Cockatrice, Cthulhu, Dragon, Griffin, Harpy, Hippocampus, Hydra, Medusa, Mothman, Naga, Phoenix, Quetzalcoatl, WyvernFelines and Canines Aralez, Cerberus, Chimera, Cù Sith, Enfield, Kitsune, Kludde, Manticore, Merlion, Nekomata, Orthrus, Sphinx, Tatzelwurm, WerewolfHooves and Horns Catoblepas, Centaur, Cuyancúa, Hippalectryon, Ichthyocentaur, Jackalope, Minotaur, Ophiotaurus, Pegasus, Qilin, Satyr, UnicornEarth, Water, and Subterranean Creatures Big Foot, Cecaelia, Cyclops, Elf, Fairy, Genie, Gnome, Goblin, Golem, Loch Ness, Imp, Kappa, Leprechaun, Leviathan, Mermaid, Mummy, Treant, Kraken, Vampire, Wendigo, Yeti

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Book SynopsisTake your manga drawings to the next level with amazing outfits and creative costumes. It just takes two details—wrinkles and shadows.In How to Draw Clothing for Manga, you’ll discover how adding a tuck here, a gather there, and hiding some areas in shadow will take your drawings from flat sketches to fantastic illustrations.What you’ll find inside: Basic techniques for drawing a variety of fabric details, including pulled wrinkles, gathered folds, tucked shapes, and more! Plus, learn how to express the differences between stiff, thick fabric and soft fabric with drape. 35+ outfits shown side by side with modeled photos to easily break down exactly what to draw for a realistic finished look. From slim-fit tees to skirts that twirl, every style is covered across all genders. Practice line art to get you started mastering wrinkles and shadows before adding details to your own work. Table of ContentsContents Introduction 01 Get Started Drawing Clothes How Fabric Moves Where to Draw Wrinkles & Folds Unique Wrinkle Shapes Understanding Fabric Textures Drawing Fabric on a 3-D Form When Body Parts Move Understanding Shadows Drawing Body Shadows Combining Wrinkles & Shadows 02 How to Draw Different Garments The Basic Step-by-Step Process T-shirts Female Tight T-shirt Female Loose T-shirt Male Tight T-shirt Male Loose T-shirt Uniforms & Costumes Sailor Uniform (Summer) Sailor Uniform (Winter) Female School Uniform Female School Blazer Peacoat Gakuran (Japanese School Uniform) Male School Uniform Male School Blazer Female Office Clothes Male Suit Male Vest Maid Costume Waiter Uniform Skirts & Dresses Tight Skirt Mini Skirt Gathered Skirt Flared Skirt Tulle Skirt High-low Skirt Dress with Flared Skirt Dress with Lace Panels Sweater Dress Pants Skinny Denim Jeans Cropped Pants Denim Shorts Exercise Shorts Coats & Jackets Trench Coat Denim Jacket Windbreaker Leather Jacket Down Jacket Fleece Jacket Polo Shirt Unique Garments Ponchos Pajamas 03 Practice Lessons Draw Wrinkles & Shadows Add Shadows About the Author Meet the Models

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Book SynopsisTHE SEQUEL TO THE MULTI-MILLION BESTSELLER DRAWING ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE BRAIN From the author of the world's most popular drawing instruction manual Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain, this new book helps you discover a new way of drawing and problem solving. Betty Edwards reveals the role our dominant eye plays in how we perceive, create, and are seen by those around us. Research shows that much like being right-handed or left-handed, each of us has a dominant eye, corresponding to the dominant side of our brain - either verbal or perceptual. Once you learn the difference and try your hand at the simple drawing exercises, you'll gain fresh insights into how you perceive, think, and create. You'll learn how to not just look but truly see. Generously illustrated throughout, Drawing on the Dominant Eye offers a remarkable guided tour through art history, psychology, and the creative process; a must-read for anyone looking for a richer understanding of our art, our minds, and ourselves. Praise for Betty Edwards' Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain: 'Hands down the best and most life-enhancing thing I've done in lockdown' India Knight 'A guide to enhancing creativity and artistic confidence' IndependentTrade ReviewPraise for Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain -- :Think you can't draw? You absolutely can . . . You will quickly amaze and delight yourself. Hands down the best and most life-enhancing thing I've done in lockdown -- India Knight * Sunday Times *A guide to enhancing creativity and artistic confidence * Independent *A consciousness-expanding work * LA Times *A landmark in drawing tuition * Leisure Painter *

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Book SynopsisChinese brush painting is a traditional style of painting that has evolved over many centuries. Artists use ink and colour pigments to paint onto rice paper or silk. An important characteristic of this kind of painting is holding and directing the brush in the right way to produce strokes that are delicate and refined. The four co-authors of this book – Sun Chenggang, Ning Xiangying, Ning Jialu and Miao Hongbo – are particularly gifted proponents of this style, which has connections with traditional calligraphy. Chinese brush painting typically includes themes such as birds, plants and flowers, landscapes, fruit and vegetables and fish. This book explores these themes through the four seasons, with the peony depicted in spring, the lotus flower in summer, the vegetable harvest in autumn and the bamboo bud in winter. Many of the subjects are symbolic and have connotations of good fortune, auspiciousness, good health, a long life, a good harvest, a flourishing family, wealth – even immortality! Explained in the introduction to each project, the symbolism is followed by clear, step-by-step instructions and illustrations. There is a short section at the beginning of the book describing tools, materials and techniques to help readers achieve the almost ethereal beauty and delicacy of this style of painting.Trade ReviewIt’s been a long time since there was a book on Chinese painting, but they were once all the rage. This one has been worth the wait and is about as authentic as you can get, being adapted from a series of Chinese originals. For all that, the approach is accessible for the Western reader and, although the introduction to materials contains some terms that may not be familiar, more obtainable alternatives are suggested. Interestingly, where colour is used, the authors prefer gouache as being more like the heavier pigment used in China itself. Previous, more Western-based books have used transparent watercolour. The book consists of a series of simple demonstrations and, of course, simplification is very much to the fore. As a result, although each project is covered in no more than three or four pages, there is no sense of foreshortening and the number of steps is perfectly adequate. Chinese art involves working quickly and there simply isn’t that much to do – there’s no room for fiddling when you’re contending with a large, soft brush. This is a welcome return to the world of Chinese painting which, even if you don’t want to pursue it in much depth, offers palate-cleansing simplification that can only refresh your own work. -- Henry Malt * Artbookreview.net *The centuries-old art of Chinese brush painting is clearly explained in this new book from Search Press. The book explores traditional themes such as birds, plants, flowers, landscapes, fruit, vegetables and fish, through the four seasons. Using ink and colour pigments to paint onto rice paper or silk there are plenty of projects to work through including the peony depicted in spring, the lotus flower in summer, vegetable harvest in autumn and the bamboo bud in winter. Each demonstration includes an introduction to the symbolism involved plus clear step-by-step instructions. * Leisure Painter, February 2023 *The Chinese style of painting has always been popular in the West for its simplicity and elegant use of form and colour. Guides have ranged from comprehensive, which explain the philosophy and mindset behind the work, to those which emulate the style, while retaining more familiar ways of working. Despite being based on a series of Chinese publications, this falls more into the latter category than the former. The lessons are straightforward and thoroughly practical. Working methods are easy to pick up and materials have been adapted for what you will find available. The demonstrations are short, but the simplicity of the work lends itself well to no more than half a dozen steps. Subjects include trees, flowers and animals. This is a worthwhile addition to the fairly considerable library of books available and will suit those who want to gain experience of this thoroughly rewarding way of working. * The Artist, March 2023 *There are few craft books that showcase an art form as delicate and beautiful as Chinese Brush Painting Through the Seasons. Authors Sun Chenggang, Ning Xiangying, Ning Jialu and Miao Hongbo talk you through a season each, via 30 gorgeous projects that spotlight the spectacular variety of nature. * Crafts Beautiful, March 2023 *Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 Tools and materials 8 Basic skills 12 Spring 14 A Fortune in Bloom 16, Loquats 19, Bringers of Spring 24, Good Ripe Fruit 26, Orchid Portrait 29, Rest in the Plantain Shade 32, Wisteria in Purple 35 Summer 38 Green Leaves, Morning Glory 40, Wishes for Prosperity 43, Lotuses in Summer 46, Reflecting on the Lotus 49, Grapes 52, Lotus Fan 55, Begonia 58, Landscape 61 Autumn 64 Full of Autumn Light 66, Heavensent Seeds 69, Autumn Harmony 72, Double Blessings 75, Festival Feast 78, Crab in the Plantain Shade 81, Garden Bounty 84, Clear Spring, Shaded Scales 87 Winter 90 Blossom in the Bitter Cold 92, Camellia 95, Sweet Flag, Sweet Cherry 98, Good Wishes and Long Life 101, Farmhouse Flavour 104, Goose in the Reeds 107, Good Fruit for a Good Life 110

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Book Synopsis Explore new ways to capture nature in your on-location drawings and paintings through insightful tips and inspiring artwork from 40+ artists from around the world.In The Urban Sketching Handbook Spotlight on Nature, Gail L. Wong and Virginia Heinshare their secrets for getting beyond basic greenery. Presenting a variety of approaches, including detailed examples,quick tips, and “workshop” ideas for practicing the concepts, this book reviews important fundamentals for composition and color and inspires unique treatments and points of view.There is a story to be told about nature wherever we are. Pack this handbook with your art supplies as you set out to tell your own stories of nature, and discover:  Different ways you can use nature to compose your story and your sketch, whether nature is the main character, the setting, or a frame for your composiTrade Review"The book fairly overflows with an abundance of artwork." * Artists Magazine *Table of ContentsAbout This Series Introduction KEYS I How We See Nature II How We Draw Nature III Finding the Character of a Place IV Finding Nature in the City V More Ways to Represent Nature GALLERY Challenges Contributors Acknowledgments About the Authors

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Book SynopsisLearn how to letter and create fun, adorable illustrations featuring everyday objects in this step-by-step guide—with tips, tricks, and practice space to kickstart your creative journey. In this effervescent approach to art instruction, artist Jesi Rodgers opens up her tool kit, sharing techniques, inspiration, and encouragement to teach the creatively curious how to draw and paint adorable projects. Adorable Art Class explores Jesi’s quirky, bright, and captivating art style. The lessons show how to create supercute illustrations of the kinds of things we see every day: Flowers Teacup Bike Cat Taco Donut Apple Along the way, we learn about color, materials, tools, and finding your creative voice. With helpful prompts and projects using a range of techniques and mediums, from pencil sketching to marker coloring, anyone can master this cute and adorable art style. Table of ContentsCONTENTS Introduction Tools Tips & Tricks FOOD & DRINK Cupcake Taco Ice Cream Cone Hamburger Fries Popcorn Soda Hot Dog Cereal Waffle Donut Cherry Pie Milkshake Gumballs Popsicle Juice Box Snow Cone NATURAL WORLD Mushroom Strawberry Avocado Orange Slice Watermelon Grapes Pineapple Cracked Egg Flowerpot 1 Flowerpot 2 Bumblebee Garden Gnome Succulent Aloe Plant Cactus Cat Fox Bird Bear Snail Crab Narwhal Octopus Frog Thundercloud Planet Shooting Star DELIGHTFUL DOODADS Leather Book Light Bulb House Hot-Air Balloon TV Set Lava Lamp Camera Umbrella Rocket Ship Letter Teapot Teacup Needle and Thread Paint Palette Paintbrush Glue Pencil Tissue Box HOLIDAYS Valentine’s Day Saint Patrick’s Day Halloween Thanksgiving Christmas MASHUPS Octopus Planet Cat Donut Snail House Cactus Bear Ice Cream Narwhal Fox Mushroom Frog Umbrella Gnome Popsicle PRACTICE & COLORING PAGES Conclusion

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Book SynopsisTHE SEQUEL TO THE MULTI-MILLION BESTSELLER DRAWING ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE BRAIN From the author of the world's most popular drawing instruction manual Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain, this new book helps you discover a new way of drawing and problem solving. Betty Edwards reveals the role our dominant eye plays in how we perceive, create, and are seen by those around us. Research shows that much like being right-handed or left-handed, each of us has a dominant eye, corresponding to the dominant side of our brain - either verbal or perceptual. Once you learn the difference and try your hand at the simple drawing exercises, you'll gain fresh insights into how you perceive, think, and create. You'll learn how to not just look but truly see. Generously illustrated throughout, Drawing on the Dominant Eye offers a remarkable guided tour through art history, psychology, and the creative process; a must-read for anyone looking for a richer understanding of our art, our minds, and ourselves.Trade ReviewPraise for Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain -- :Think you can't draw? You absolutely can . . . You will quickly amaze and delight yourself. Hands down the best and most life-enhancing thing I've done in lockdown -- India Knight * Sunday Times *A guide to enhancing creativity and artistic confidence * Independent *A consciousness-expanding work * LA Times *A landmark in drawing tuition * Leisure Painter *

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Book SynopsisLearn how to create beautiful loose and expressive florals, still lifes, motifs, animals, modes of transport, and fruits and vegetables in vibrant watercolor with touches of pen and ink. In Go with the Flow Painting, author Ohn Mar Win (Instagram: @ohn_mar_win) offers beginner-friendly techniques, tips, and step-by-step lessons that show how to get the most out of these mediums and paint confidently in this captivating style. Discover a new visual language that renders subjects with soft edges and luminous color. Capture just enough detail to suggest familiar flowers, animals, and objects and allow your unique expression and style to flourish. Begin with essential supplies and learn the key characteristics of loose watercolor. Practice basic techniques that lay the foundation for this style, such as working wet-on-wet, creating color gradients, layering, and creating shapes. Learn the best way to use brushes, anTrade Review"Beautifully and effectively organized and presented, Go with the Flow Painting is an ideal combination of instructional guide and 'how to' manual that will be of immense interest and value to aspiring artists wanting to work with watercolors." * Midwest Book Review *“This is a wonderful guide for beginners [and] an essential book." * Library Journal Starred Review *Table of ContentsContents INTRODUCTION 1 Art Supplies WATERCOLOR PAINTS BRUSHES DIP PENS & NIBS PAPER & SKETCHBOOKS 2 The Flow State WHAT DO I MEAN BY FLOW STATE? CHARACTERISTICS OF LOOSE WATERCOLOR LOADING YOUR BRUSH COLOR MIXING ON PAPER WET-ON-WET WET-ON-DRY 3 Warm-Up Techniques & Exercises WORKING FAST PRACTICING BRUSH CONTROL PRACTICING SHAPES & WATER RATIO WARM-UP PROJECTS INTRODUCING EXPRESSIVE INK 4 Food & Drink MACARONS ICE CREAM BELL PEPPERS MILKSHAKES 5 Animals FLAMINGOS SNAILS TURTLE CHAMELEON 6 Travel HOT AIR BALLOON SAILBOAT SUBMARINE GLOBE 7 Florals DOUGLAS ASTER STARGAZER LILY CORAL PEONIES CHERRY BLOSSOM TREE ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ABOUT THE AUTHOR INDEX

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Book SynopsisAre you curious about colouring with alcohol markers, such as Copics, but don’t know where to start? Then Manga Artists' Beginner’s Guide to Alcohol Markers is the perfect book for you! Learn basic alcohol marker techniques, including blending and shading. Full of step-by-step colour photos, you’ll learn how to colour skin, eyes, hair, clothing, and everyday items like food and flowers all in eye-catching manga style. Best of all, there is a workbook section full of fun black and white manga drawings so you can get started practicing your colouring techniques right away!

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Book SynopsisAcclaimed Royal Academy artist Jeanette Barnes and Paul Brandford breathe new life into sketching for town and city dwellers everywhere. Mercurial, inspirational, practical and charming, this guide covers everything from architecture to accidental paintings, cocktails to clouds, smudges to skyscrapers. With easily digested bite-size entries, it introduces many types of art materials, their uses and a number of insights and exercises to build confidence in a range of approaches to drawing. For the more experienced sketcher, the artists discuss the processes behind drawing and strategies to inject more creativity and open-mindedness about how to take a drawing forward. With great charm, the book gives a window onto the experiences of Jeanette, who has travelled to many cities worldwide in search of inspiring city subjects and a half-decent cocktail. Full of tips and ideas about working on location and back in the studio, this book is filled with the scribbles, sketches and preparatory drawings that feed into the larger works for which she is known. As a whole, the book is a multipurpose tool which can be used to unlock the potential of drawing both technically and philosophically so that the reader can be the architect of their own drawing experience rather than the recipient of someone else’s. After thirty years of drawing, many of them teaching, the authors still feel an excitement when picking up a pencil or some charcoal. This book gives every reader the chance to share that excitement and bring urban living to life.Trade Review‘Mercurial, inspirational, practical and charming’ The Big Draw 2022 ‘City Sketching Reimagined … is not just about drawing cities in a new way; the book itself is a massive break from other how-to urban sketching books … ideal for anyone who wants to break out of their urban sketching routine and create something remarkable’ Art Tool Kit 2022 ‘A fresh and encouraging introduction to drawing’ Leisure Painter 2022 ‘The most substantial book I have seen on urban sketching’ The Artist Henry Malt 2022

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Book SynopsisLearn the art of creating elegantly simple line drawings with this step-by-step introduction. Written and illustrated by French artist Frédéric Forest, who is internationally renowned for his expressive, minimal artwork, The Art of the Line in Drawing presents an overview of his technique and creative process, followed by a series of progressive lessons organized by subject.   Line Drawing. Definitions, origins, basic skills. Supplies. Tools for mark-making, types of paper; choosing the right inks, working with values, additional tools. Getting Started. Setting up your workspace, testing your materials, choosing your subject. Drawing from a Model. Figures, portraits, hands and feet, other physical details. Drawing from a Photograph. Nature, landscapes, still lifes, flowers, cats, horses, wildlife, objects, interiors, buildings, houses. Creative ITrade Review“A very useful book to have around for your art students or your curious artist at home.” * GeekDad *Table of ContentsPreface My Portfolio L I N E A R T Definition and Origins Lexicon Acquired Skills MATERIALS Pens for Mark-Making Tools for Fine Lines Tools for Brushed Lines Tools for Colored Lines Types of Paper Additional Tools GETTING STARTED Setting up Your Workspace Choosing Your Subject Creative Pauses Inspiration at the Museum Inspiration on the Streets Inspiration from Feelings Inspiration from Your Imagination Where to Practice DRAWING LESSONS A Woman’s Silhouette Creative Pause: Thinking Outside the Box Women Creative Pause: Same Pose, Different Shapes A Woman’s Portrait A Man’s Silhouette Men A Man’s Portrait Hands Legs and Feet Flowers Still Lifes Landscapes Cats Horses Swans Objects Interior (Using One Color) Interior (Using Two Colors) Houses Creative Pauses Looking at What You’ve Made Choosing the Final Piece Showcasing Your Artwork Acknowledgments About the Author Index

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Book SynopsisYour table is ready . . . Learn to draw over 100 adorable doodles of your favorite snacks, desserts, drinks, and more! Welcome to the Kawaii Doodle Café, where popular kawaii artist Faith Varvara shows you how to draw over 100 cute and tasty foods from around the world in an easy-to-follow, simple style, including breakfast, lunch, snacks, à la carte items, pastries, desserts, and drinks, along with tableware. Create mouthwatering foods, such as: Éclair Macaron Lemon Meringue Pie Tiramisu Crème Brûlée Strawberry Parfait Avocado Toast Breakfast Burrito Japanese Omurice Bubble Tea And much more! Along with the step-by-step tutorials, Faith shares tips for drawing and coloring your foods, a fun introduction about the cozy café and its talented staff, and pages to color. And once you have the basic shapes down, the options to customize the foods are endless to create your own feast for the eyes. Keep doodling away as you collect all the fun books in the Kawaii Doodle series, which include: Kawaii Doodle Class, Mini Kawaii Doodle Class, Kawaii Doodle Cuties, Mini Kawaii Doodle Cuties, Kawaii Doodle World, Kawaii Kitties, and Kawaii Doggies.

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Book SynopsisA lively illustrated tour of London in the company of Vic Lee - artist, storyteller and self-confessed ‘ragamuffin from south-east London’. Based on Vic Lee’s series of prints of London, this book covers a variety of different streets and areas across the city, from Walthamstow Village in the north to Lordship Lane in East Dulwich in the south, from Broadway market in the east to Portobello Road in the west. Through over twenty different areas, he brings to life the local life and architecture. Interwoven around the places are stories and anecdotes that he has picked up during his researches and conversations along the way, as well as some that may or may not be true... Areas included in the book are: Saint Pauls Cathedral Soho Battersea Mayfair Portobello Road Southbank Centre The Tate Lambs Conduit Street Exmouth market Clerkenwell and Shoreditch Broadway market Kingsland Road Columbia Road Walthamstow Village Stoke Newington Islington Crouch end Clapham Dulwich Village East Dulwich Brixton Peckham Maida Vale Created in Vic Lee's inimitable, intricate illustration style this book is a work of art for lovers of London life and its special places  Table of ContentsStreets of London South London SE22 Lordship Lane East Dulwich SE15 Bellenden Road Peckham SE21 Dulwich Village Dulwich SW2 Brixton Brixton SW11 Northcote Road BatterseaNorth London N1 Upper Street Islington N8 Crouch End Haringey N16 Church Street Stoke NewingtonEast London EC1 St Johns Clerkenwell EC1 Exmouth Market Clerkenwell E2 Columbia Road Tower Hamlets E2 Shoreditch Hackney E8 Kingsland Road Dalston E8 Broadway Market Hackney E17 Walthamstow Village WalthamstowWest London W9 Clifton Road Maida Vale W11 Portobello Road Notting Hill WC1 Lambs Conduit Street Bloomsbury W1 Soho Central W1 Mount Street Mayfair

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Book SynopsisLearn how to reflect the beautifully diverse world around you in the manga-style characters you draw, guided by the talented team of artists at Saturday AM.   Saturday AM is the world’s leading showcase of diverse anime and manga stories. How to Draw Diverse Manga features the comics brand’s most popular artists, who themselves represent racial identities, ethnicities, and cultures from all over the world, as well as diverse gender identities. Our perceptions of the world are shaped by how the media presents it. With this guide, you will be able to tell inclusive stories about heroic, beautiful, strong, intelligent, and courageous heroes from all backgrounds that are relatable to all and represent the true diversity of our world.   The reader-friendly, step-by-step presentation, which is accessible even to beginning artists, shares drawing guidance for:   Diverse facTable of ContentsIntroduction to Saturday AM Why Does Diversity in Manga Matter? CREATING YOUR MANGA CHARACTER Part One: HAIR Head Shape (Seinen) Lips Nose BONUS! Black Nose and Mouth Anime Eyes Finishing Touches Facial Expressions Different Angles Dynamic Expressions BONUS! Guess The Style Part Two: HAIR Afro Afro: Stylish Afro: Waves Afro: Hair Part BONUS! Part Variety Bald & Balding Braids Detailed Braids Dreadlocks BONUS! Tips for Black Hair Facial Hair Straight Hair: Bangs Straight Hair: Long Straight Hair: Buns Straight Hair: Two Block Part Three: BODY Body Proportions Constructing a Body Diverse Body Types Hands Feet Part Four: CHARACTER DESIGN: THEORY Semiotics Shape Language Silhouette Test Skin Tones Part Five: CHARACTER DESIGN: GALLERY Creating Saturday AM Characters Creating New Characters Part Six: TOOLS & MORE Art Tools: Traditional Art Tools: Digital Work Spaces EXTRAS Glossary Acknowledgments Credits Resources Index

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Book SynopsisCoBrA is one of the most important artist groups of Art Informel. The name is derived from the first letters of the three capital cities of Copenhagen, Brussels, and Amsterdam — the centers from which the CoBrA artists took action. Little is still known here in Germany about the concrete origins of the art movement. The exhibition and catalogue of the same name attempts a broad examination of the group’s origins: with the focus on the reconstruction of the movement prior to its official establishment in November 1948. It aims to present a representative cross-section of the movement that includes the largest possible number of artists as well as the greatest possible concentration of forms of expression and topics characteristic of the movement. Roughly fifty paintings, thirty sculptural works, fifty graphic reproductions and photographs as well as individual ceramics and textiles from international collections are presented.

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Book SynopsisBeasley’s Vaqueros presents the life and work of South Texas artist Ricardo M. Beasley. Between roughly 1940 and 1980, Beasley produced dozens of pen-and-ink drawings of working vaqueros, the Tejano cowboys of South Texas. His vibrant, action-packed scenes capture the dangers as well as the joys of working with cattle, horses, and an often unforgiving landscape of cactus and mesquite. In addition to a selection of Beasley’s work, historian AndrÉs Tijerina has collected and translated an extensive interview with the artist and several of his poems. Despite having lived much of his life after World War II, Beasley’s art and words capture a world in which people and events from decades before his time are just as immediate—perhaps even more so—than events of the present day. More than just a testament to the talents of a singular, self-taught artist, Beasley’s Vaqueros is a record of vaquero life in South Texas that spans the centuries.

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Book SynopsisDraw Chibi Style teaches the essential techniques and adorable characters of this popular drawing style in 62 easy lessons.Trade Review"Whether you're just beginning to draw, trying your hand at chibi for the first time, or looking for ideas and guidance for bringing your own chibi characters to life, Draw Chibi Style: A Beginner's Step-by-Step Guide for Drawing Adorable Minis is an ideal DIY instructional guide." * Draw Chibi Style *Table of ContentsCONTENTS INTRODUCTION CHIBI ESSENTIALS The Drawing Process, Step by Step Basic drawing steps, explained Understanding Lines Various line weights and effective lines for sketching, inking, and more Chibi Figures: Proportions Various chibi proportions Basic Chibi Body Types A variety of chibi bodies Building Lines of Action Understanding how characters move Posing Your Chibi Examples of multiple poses Drawing Chibi Heads Various head proportions Drawing Chibi Eyes Multiple styles and different expressions Drawing Chibi Mouths Multiple angles and different expressions Facial Expressions Examples of character expressions Drawing Chibi Hands Basic structures with sample poses Drawing Chibi Legs and Feet Basic structures with sample poses Hair Fundamentals Hair essentials for male and female characters Examples of Hairstyles Basic structures and examples for Dress Up Your Chibi Outfitting your characters Final Line and Base Color Choosing colors for your chibi characters Understanding Light and Shadow How to give your character dimension through value Special Effects Some special effects to make your characters glow CHIBI CHARACTERS, STEP BY STEP Nhat Binh Traditional Vietnamese Bride Korean Girl in a Chuseok Sakura with Kimono Qipao Festival Girl Halloween “Trick or Treat” “Lion Dance” Little Mermaid Baby Witch Fire Warrior Cute Goblin Lab Researcher Butterfly Fairy Innocent Vampire Silly-Cute Zombie Werewolf Girl Fox Girl Bear Boy Bunny Baker New Generation Superhero Shopping Alien Pirate Baby Shark Angry Mummy Brave Adventurer Plushie Doctor Cheerleader Baseball Player Basketball Player Swimmer Youth Idol Sweet Schoolgirl Action Movie Actor Ninja Ballerina Artist Astronaut and Moon Shadow Knight Hip-Hop Couple Prince and Princess Elementary School Friends Dragon Dinosaur Nine-Tails Fox Rainbow Unicorn ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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