The Arts: techniques and principles Books

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Book SynopsisThe Collins Gem series is being relaunched in Spring 2004 and this new title features a new internal design and a strong new cover design. Packed full of tips for the aspiring watercolourist, its handy format makes it ideal for quick reference either in the studio or out in the field.Contents include:essential tips on all the basic watercolour techniques, plus helpful advice on sketching and drawingguidelines on painting skies, backgrounds, foregrounds, the main subject, trees, details and shadowsclear and straightforward step-by-step instructions for painting a complete landscape in 7 easy stagestips on painting water in various forms and adding people to a paintingTable of ContentsPractical tips and techniques to get you started in watercolour Easy-to-follow step-by-step exercises throughout Tips on painting skies, trees, water, figures, buildings and landscapes

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Book SynopsisLearn to create stunning abstract and stylized art using easy techniques and an intriguing variety of art materials including watercolor, inks, glazes, foils, stamps and more!In this highly anticipated follow-up to her bestselling book Creative Abstract Watercolor, artist and art tutor Kate Rebecca Leach continues the journey of discovery into her joyful art style, introducing a wide range of exciting materials alongside watercolors to create mixed media art.? Get creative: Kate''s unique approach allows you to have fun, be present and play with colour, shape, texture and materials to your heart?s content, without worrying about accuracy or detail.? Try new things: Start experimenting with a host of techniques including collage, printing, metallics, salt, alcohol, crackle glaze, and even adding simple embroidered accents to your work.? Improve your skills: Follow Kate''s expert guidance and helpful tips and tricks help you to build your repertoire of techniques and start creating art you love.? Go with the flow: Relax into the process, letting the natural watercolor puddle and pool to help form your compositions, then add mixed media embellishments to take it to the next level.? Find your tribe: Join Kate''s rapidly growing Instagram community of over 180,000 passionate followers (@essoldodesign) and connect with likeminded artists all over the world.Packed with information and inspiring images, this beautiful book will take your work to new creative heights and allow you to try something new, exciting and most of all fun!

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Book SynopsisThis handy, practical and inspirational little book is perfect for the pocket or art bag. It shows watercolour painters of all levels how to loosen up their paintings and maintain spontaneity by painting simple watercolour studies in no more than 10 minutes.Written by popular artist Hazel Soan, the book is arranged in three parts: the first section explains all about the equipment you will need; the second section covers techniques and shows what can be achieved with watercolour in a short time span; the third section looks at various subjects that are ideal for painting quickly.All the essential techniques are covered, focusing particularly on maximizing brushstrokes and exploring colours, and there is useful advice on deciding what to include and what to leave out. With helpful chapters on painting a wide range of subjects people, landscapes, seascapes, buildings, gardens, flowers and still life this little guide is ideal for quick reference when working in the studio or out in theTable of ContentsThink you have no time to paint? See what you can achieve in just 10 minutes! Inspirational advice to help you paint quick and spontaneous watercolours Essential tips on painting people, landscapes, seascapes, buildings, animals, flowers and still life

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Book SynopsisLearn to create detailed, realistic portraits in graphite pencil from basic shapes. Successfully drawing the human face is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding, artistic experiences. Faces & Features shows you how to capture the unique characteristics of the human face in graphite pencil, with tips on choosing materials, building with basic shapes, placing proportionate features, defining facial expression, and shading to develop form and realism. With a wealth of detailed step-by-step projects to both re-create and admire, Debra Kauffman Yaun teaches artists how to develop a portrait drawing to its fullest. She shares her personal methods for rendering the human face in all its expressiveness as she introduces tips and techniques for approaching babies, children, teenagers, and adults of all ages. This book includes in-depth information on specific facial features as well as detailed, step-by-step exercises that explore ways to develop complete portraits. And the wealth of beautiful, inspiring examples ensure that Faces & Features will be a welcome addition to any artist’s drawing reference library. Drawing faces can be a challenge, but with this step-by-step guide, you’ll be rendering realistic portraits in no time. The How to Draw & Paint series offers an easy-to-follow guide that introduces artists to basic tools and materials and includes simple step-by-step lessons for a variety of projects suitable for the aspiring artist. Faces & Features allows artists to develop their drawing skills, demonstrating how to start with basic shapes and use pencil and shading techniques to create varied textures, values, and details for a realistic, completed drawing.

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Book SynopsisLearn to draw thepopular Japanese style of anime and manga like a pro with renowned Instagram artist Yoai in this follow-up to her best-selling Chibi Art Class. In Anime Art Class, you will learn how to draw Yoai’s signature cute characters, from their bodies and facial features, including their dreamy eyes, to trendy clothes and accessories and fun hair. The 20 tutorials, with simple step-by-step illustrations and instructions, guide you from drawing characters in pencil and pen to coloring and shading them in with colored pencils, markers, and watercolor paints.Also find: An overview of the tools and materials you can use to create anime art Anime basics, including demonstrations for drawing every part of the body and article of clothing Techniques for refining your pencil sketches, inking your drawings, and adding color Tips and troubleshooting advice for perfecting your drawings An inspiration gallery of different eyes, hairstyles, clothing, accessories, and poses that you can also use as coloring pages Soon you will be enhancing your notebooks, stationery, artwork, and more with your own unique anime world. Anime Art Class is now in session! Create even more supercute artwork with these other books from the Cute and Cuddly Art series:Chibi Art Class, Mini Chibi Art Class, Cute Chibi Animals, Anime Art Class, and Cute Chibi Mythical Beasts & Magical Monsters.Trade Review"Highly recommended for any aspiring artist interested in learning the basics of how to create delightful and appealing characters!” * Midwest Book Review *"Does an excellent job of including educational content on incorporating art elements (e.g. colours, lines, value, shapes), multiple art techniques, and various art mediums (e.g. markers, pencil crayons, water colours, ink, pencil) in their artwork... sure to please many art and anime enthusiasts." * Metroland Toronto *Table of ContentsIntroduction MaterialsAnime Basics Bodies Facial Features Hair Clothes and ShoesAnime Techniques Pencil Sketching and Shading Inking Line Art Adding Base Color Shading Blending Making a Gradient Fixing Mistakes Have Fun and Stay Healthy!Tutorials Pencil Sketching Inking Coloring with Colored Pencils Coloring with Markers Coloring with WatercolorsInspiration Gallery & Coloring Pages Color Combinations Eyes Hairstyles Clothes Accessories Poses

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Book SynopsisFilled with delightfully cute characters, Fuzzballs Super Cuteness Overload Colouring Book invites you to colour Timmy the Tiger, Whisky the Cat, and Ollie the Bunny in fun scenes.

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Book SynopsisThis pocket-size version of The Complete Color Harmony features the color explorations, insights, and palettes included in the original version in a handy, take-along size. It’s the one color reference designers need. Get an introduction to using the color wheel and discover the key aspects of color, such as warm, cool, pale, and bright. Then, delve into moods and color and see how a wide variety of palettes can come across as earthy, powerful, regal, calm, dependable, and more. In this book you’ll discover: Hundreds of organized color palettes that can be used for a variety of art and design projects. Why certain colors attract. How colors evoke certain moods. Advice on choosing the best colors to work with. A CMYK process color chart and color swatches to make choosing colors and palettes easy. With all the expert information in this convenient portable guide, you’ll feel confident in every color choice.Table of ContentsIntroduction The Color Wheel How to Use Color The Color Chart The Process Aspects of Color Hot Cold Warm Cool Light Dark Pale Bright Basic Color Schemes What’s Your Color? Moods and Color Powerful Rich Romantic Vital Earthy Friendly Soft Welcoming Moving Elegant Trendy Fresh Traditional Refreshing Tropical Classic Dependable Calm Regal Magical Nostalgic Energetic Subdued Professional Pure Graphic The Psychology of Color Process Color Conversion Chart Color Swatches About the Author Photo Credits

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Book SynopsisThe essential guide to colour theory and mixing for artists. Full of beautiful, intricate handpainted colour wheels and practical advice on using and mixing colour, this book is a must-have for any artist working with pigment and paint. Starting from the basics of colour and working up to the complexities of tonality, harmony, opacity and pigment, artist Ian Goldsmith explores and explains all the key elements of colour and what it can do. A comprehensive paint index at the back of the book provides an indispensable reference guide for choosing and purchasing materials that no practising artist should be without.Including:- Understanding the colour wheel - Primaries, secondaries and tertiaries- Colour temperature- Hue, value and saturation - Opacity and transparency- Materials and pigments

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Book SynopsisA complete guide to extracting vivid pigments from plants and making your own professional-grade paints with them. Natalie's colours stand out from the usual plant-dye inks, which fade over time. In the book she demonstrates the fundamental technique of how to make a lake, which binds to the inks and makes pigments that are lasting and vivid. These, in turn, give you inks, watercolours and pastels from across the spectrum that are perfect to use for your own artistic endeavours.

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Book SynopsisJake Spicer wants you to learn how to draw. This is his complete course in drawing, suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced artists, and designed to help you fit drawing into your lifestyle. Tried-and-tested exercises, ranging from five-minute sketches to dedicated sessions of an hour or longer, cover every subject and location you could wish for, while accessibly written drawing theory helps you relate the technical concepts to your practice, helping you to hone your craft. Whatever your goals are, expert art tutor Jake Spicer gives you the inspiration and encouragement to draw more - and keep improving.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Scott McCloud's brilliant treatise on the inner workings of cartoonists will delight amateur artists and curious fans alike." -- Salon "In this, McCloud's third nonfiction book about comics, he has produced his most significant achievement to date, and that's really saying something." -- Cory Doctorow "Only Scott McCloud could have organized his thoughts on comics like this. Scott's talent as a cartoonist not only makes him intimate to insights no outsider can see, but also gives him the power to show it to the world." -- Jeff Smith "Every aspect of comics creation is covered in this enlightening, accessible guide presented in a comic-strip format." -- Booklist (Editor's Choice) "A guide to creating comics that is as thoughtful and entertaining as the best-loved work in the field, both enjoyable and accessible to casual fans of the form and the new gold standard for artists who want to create their own comics, manga, and graphic novels. -- Bookslut "More than a how-to, the book goes beyond simple instruction, digging into the real dirt of creating comics." -- Kirkus Reviews

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Book Synopsis3dtotal Publishing is an established authority on art and design, with a growing stable of high-calibre artist-authors. With such incredible talent and know-how under one publishing-house roof, we are uniquely placed to launch the BRAND NEW SERIES, Artists'' Masters Series.  We have already released several bestselling, well-respected art-theory books including Art Fundamentals 2nd Edition and our much-loved character design titles. We cover the breadth of art and design, offering tutorials and inspiration from hundreds of experts across many genres. Now, this exciting new series takes a deep dive into the key areas of art theory, focusing on specific aspects which, when mastered, make the difference between good and world-class design. This innovative concept launches with Artists'' Masters Series: Color & Light. A select few hugely popular industry experts reveal techniques they use to infuse characters with the advanced levels of color and light that make the

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Book SynopsisWith Drawing: Landscapes, learn to render a variety of beautiful landscape subjects in graphite pencil. William F. Powell invites you into his artistic world to explore a number of basic drawing techniques and shows how to develop a drawing to its fullest through a series of step-by-step demonstrations. In this 10.25 × 13.75–inch book, Powell explains a number of drawing techniques and special effects and gives tips on how to design a well-balanced composition.Landscapes provides you with the necessary knowledge to create your own landscape drawings from preliminary sketch to the completed work. Discover different methods of shading, ways of manipulating drawing tools to produce specific textures, and a wealth of beautiful landscapes to both copy and admire, includes scenes from American national parks. Also included are simple techniques for developing common landscape elements—such as trees, clouds, rocks, and water—and how to apply a variety of methods to convey a sense of realism. Then, with a little practice, you will be able to apply your newfound skills and draw your own beautiful landscape masterpieces! Designed for beginners, the How to Draw & Paint series offers easy-to-follow guides that introduce artists to basic tools and materials and include simple step-by-step lessons for a variety of projects suitable for the aspiring artist. Drawing: Landscapes allows artists to develop drawing skills by demonstrating how to start with basic shapes and use pencil and shading techniques to create varied textures, values, and details for a realistic, completed landscape drawing.Table of ContentsTools & Materials Shading Techniques Surfaces & Textures Drawing Practice Finding Subjects Perspective Clouds Rocks Trees & Bushes Structures Mountains Deserts Creeks & Rocks Half Dome, Yosemite Grand Falls, Yellowstone

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Book SynopsisJust when you thought there was no hope of ever finding a comprehensive color-mixing resource for oil, acrylic, and watercolor artists, along comes the 1,500 Color Mixing Recipes for Oil, Acrylic & Watercolor, a collection of Walter Foster's bestselling Color Mixing Recipes books, including Color Mixing Recipes for Oil and Acrylic, Color Mixing Recipes for Portraits, Color Mixing Recipes for Watercolor, and the most recent addition, Color Mixing Recipes for Landscapes. This incredible collection comes in a user-friendly concealed spiral-bound format that is tabbed for quick and easy reference. Aspiring artists will also find two removable color mixing grids--one for oil or acrylic, and one for watercolor.

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Book SynopsisZentangle Basics introduces you to today's hottest trend in drawing meditation. Using only pencil, pen and paper, you'll learn how to draw 25 original tangles and discover inspiring ideas for incorporating these designs into your art. This expanded workbook edition includes a bonus section where you can get started with warm-up exercises, practice tangling, and experiment with strings and shading. With benefits including stress relief, inspiration and improved self-esteem, Zentangle can be done anywhere and no special 'artistic' talent is required. Tangles can be used to decorate wearables and home decor objects as well as cards, scrapbook pages and journals. Best of all, you can tangle even if you have never drawn anything before.

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Book SynopsisFrom the 17th century to the advent of the digital age, color theories have been illustrated with opulent wheels, polychrome charts, and meticulous diagrams. Gathering over 40 works from around the world, with more than 350 images, this edition traces the many hues of a subject that inspired Newton, Goethe, Sanzo Wada, the Bauhaus, and many more.

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Book SynopsisWhether you're discovering printmaking for the first time or you're looking for fresh ideas to reinvigorate your practice, you'll find plenty of inspiration in The Printmaking Ideas Book.From traditional methods such as screenprinting, etching and lithography to contemporary techniques such as risography and digital collage, this book is packed with new ideas, methods and tips on every page.Brimming with experimental, arresting and beautiful examples of printmaking from all over the world, it will take your creativity further and awaken new ideas.

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Book SynopsisAndrew Graham Dixon is one of the world's most prominent commentators on the visual arts. Highly knowledgeable, and with a gift for communicating complex ideas clearly and imaginatively, he is the author of Caravaggio: A Life Sacred and Profane, the best-selling biography of the Renaissance artist Michaelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio. He is also the writer and presenter of several BBC art documentaries and the co-presenter of five series on the art and food of Italy alongside the chef Georgio Locatelli.

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Book SynopsisThe only color guide a designer will ever need; The Complete Color Harmony, Pantone Edition has been completely updated with Pantone colors and new text.The Complete Color Harmony: Pantone Edition is the latest in Rockport Publishers' best-selling Color series. This edition has been completely revised from start to finish, and now features new text by Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute. And the color "moods" that she writes about in each chapter are based and matched with Pantone colors. The book expands on previous editions for the most comprehensive color reference to date. This edition includes information on creating special effects, as well as an entirely new section devoted to the psychology of color. Eiseman helps readers determine their best color choices and suggests why some colors may inspire their creativity while others don't. The book includes new color palette sections along with expanded and updated color trends.Table of ContentsForeword Introduction The Phenomenon of Color: Where does it come from? A Color Conversation: Defining the Basic Terminology The Color Wheel: What’s the Temp? Whirling the Wheel: Color Compatibility Complex Colors: Special Effects Discord and Dissonance Color Clues and Cues How to define major messaging Proper proportions: dominant, subordinate and accent The Psychology of Color Red/Pink/Wine Orange Yellow Green Blue-Green Blue Purple/Lavender/Fuchsia Black White Brown Neutrals/Naturals Color and Mood Active Botanical Casual Delectable Delicate Earthy Extraterrestrial Glamorous Maquille Natural Nostalgic Nurturing Piquant Playful Powerful Provocative Reliable Rich Robust Romantic Soothing Sophisticated Subtle Timeless Transcendent Tribal Tropical Waters Urban Venerable Personal Colors: What do they say about you? Color Trends and Forecasting Guidelines for spotting trends Where to look for clues: ten important categories Naming the Colors History/culture Sources of inspiration Importance in marketing

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Book SynopsisGiving advice for those wishing to capture the beauty of the urban landscape, this guide annotates artworks in a range of styles and media to demonstrate techniques and details. It includes studies of a range of different architectural styles, from town houses and rural cottages to churches and continental cafes.

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Book SynopsisThis book is for anybody who wants to draw more, whether you are learning from scratch or developing existing skills. When you're learning to draw, the most important thing you'll own is a sketchbook, and this is a sketchbook with training wheels. Let go of your fear and unlock drawing skills that you never believed you could have with this expertly guided sketchbook. Not your ordinary art book, You Will be Able to Draw by the End of This Book is a combined tutorial and sketchbook that not only teaches you the fundamental steps required for you to be able to draw, but also allows you the space to practise on the page. The book lays flat to allow you to draw comfortably and has an elastic band to keep your artwork safe. Each exercise has an estimated completion time, so it doesn't matter whether you are at home, on your lunch break or even on the bus, you'll always find time to practise. Jake is like an ever-present companion who will guide you on your creative journey, with his friendly and practical tone. His lessons build in complexity as you work through the book, starting with the basics of line making and progressing to portraits and landscapes. His clever exercises will help you gain confidence and break you out of old habits as well as encouraging you to see things in a different way and relax. So pick up a pencil and discover the joy of drawing!

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Book SynopsisIn 101 Mixed Media Techniques, artists of all backgrounds and skill levels will learn and explore fun, cutting-edge techniques in the popular genre of mixed media art. Mixed media enthusiasts will enjoy learning the essential concepts for creating their own mixed media art—whether they are experienced in its approaches or just starting out. 101 Mixed Media Techniques features a wide variety of traditional and eclectic techniques, including drawing and painting, stamping, stitching, using photos, prepping backgrounds, working with wax, using different kinds of inks, collaging, journaling, and working with encaustics. Multiple ways to use each technique are provided to inspire and nurture creative freedom in every artist. Each technique is presented in a step-by-step format, beginning with an overview of the required tools and materials. The instructions are straightforward and approachable, so artists of all levels can master them with ease. The engaging and accessible format caters to individual learning preferences, allowing artists to focus on a single technique or several at a time. Readers will not only learn a variety of techniques, but will also discover new ideas and inspiration for using the techniques in their own projects. With so many options to choose from, 101 Mixed Media Techniques has something for every artist and is sure to inspire new forms of creativity.

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Book SynopsisA poetic, passionate and intensely personal exploration of colour written during the final year of Derek Jarman''s life -- with a new introduction by Ali Smith.In Chroma, his most poetic and lyrical book, Derek Jarman explores the uses of colour. Shifting across the spectrum and from the medieval to the modern, he draws on the work of great colour theorists from Pliny to Leonardo. Interwoven with these musings are evocative memories from Jarman''s childhood and illustrious career, along with reflections on his deteriorating health. Written a year before Jarman's death, and as his eyesight was failing, this is an intensely personal work; a paean from an artist seeking to memorialise the extraordinary power of colour even while it receded from his own life.Trade ReviewChroma is more than an Aids autobiography...it is a paean to colour...Shot through with sass and moving testimony...this complexly written, yet stylish and readable book locates most powerfully the sublimal brilliance of one artist * Gay Times *Chroma sparks off pieces of Jarman's poetry and prose against fragments that span Ovid, Alberti, Goethe and Wittgenstein...to form a highly personal reflection on colour, a keleidoscopic experience that throws out different facets like a prism in the light * New Statesman *Full of anger, wit, emotion, and knowledge, this collection informs and astounds...Immensely powerful * Kirkus *Jarman reminds us how much there is to be smelled, observed and listened to in the world if we do not walk past it * Guardian *The context of the writing of this book inevitably turns it from an amusing bricollage to a gesture of extraordinary generosity, a tribute to the continuing need to create and communicate on the very edge of darkness * Financial Times *

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Book SynopsisGet inspired and get glazing! Amazing Glaze Recipes and Combinations provides a captivating collection of sure-fire glaze recipes and electrifying combinations for low-fire, mid-range, and high-fire potters. Hundreds of photos and technically-edited recipes ensure you'll get the best possible results. Whether you're searching for excitement at cone 6 or looking for the perfect high-fire shino recipe, you've come to the right place. Join Gabriel Kline, author of Amazing Glaze and founder of Odyssey Clayworks, for page after color-filled page of glazes. Start by learning the keys to success when applying glazes, then choose the temperature range you want to explore first. Gabriel's collection of well-tested recipes draw on his decades of experience as an instructor and leader of a communal arts studio—including current and past student favorites as well as a few timeless gems. Of course he doesn't stop there! In addition to plentiful tiles showing off two-glaze combinations, Gabriel shares multi-glaze combinations developed through years of trial and error. From waterfall blues to eye-popping bursts of red, there's a rainbow of options. Just as in Amazing Glaze, the recipes have all been technically edited and each one has a photo. By controlling specific gravity and application, the goal is always getting the perfect coat of glaze recipe after recipe. Special topics like majolica and raku firing provide welcome detours, and a variety of artist features serve as launching points for new explorations. Stunning galleries from today's top artists provide even more glazing ideas.Trade Review"This is a worthy resource for artisans wishing to expand their knowledge of pottery glazes. Explanations are clear, and the photographs of finished pieces might inspire readers to advance their skills. Experienced ceramists especially will find useful information in this comprehensive work, to take their pottery to a higher level of artistry" * Library Journal * “Gabriel Kline’s workshop approach to exploring glazes includes reliable and engaging recipes. This book will help you get started and provide a go-to reference for continued experimentation and growth.” * Jessica Knapp, editor, Ceramics Monthly, associate editor, Pottery Making Illustrated *“A compendium of insightful approaches to surface development. It’s a staple for your clay-learning library.” * Deb Schwartzkopf, author of Creative Pottery and founder/owner Rat City Studio *“This book is a must for every pottery studio and school…such quality work, images, and instruction. I love seeing contemporary makers doing diverse things with glaze. Absolutely love it!” * Roberto Lugo, Potter and Assistant Professor *“The first thing you will notice when thumbing through this book is the amazing variety and vibrancy of the colors. These are not the “brown round” pots of the 1970’s…these pots are alive! Gabriel does a masterful job of showing what is possible when combining glazes, drawing back the curtain in a way that makes it easy to find success quickly.” * John Britt, author of The Complete Guide to Mid-Range Glazes and The Complete Guide to High-Fire Glazes *“Ideal and unreservedly recommended.” * Midwest Book Review *

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Book SynopsisComplete Anatomy Coloring Book is a comprehensive collection of impressive outline drawings showing the body's muscles, skeleton, organs and anatomical systems (nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymph, respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive). It contains over 150 diagrams that can be coloured in using felt-tips, crayons, marker pens, coloured pencils or gel-pens.The process of colouring in the different body parts is a fantastic aid to learning, making the book a thoroughly practical, interactive aid for students studying anatomy. Extended captions to the illustrations explain exactly what is being shown and provide clues to help you label the diagrams. Students can then key in the labels to the illustrations as an additional learning device.By engaging with the illustrations in this way, students will gain a deeper understanding of the parts of the body and its processes. The exciting combination of colouring activities and labelling exercises makes Complete Anatomy Coloring Book an invaluable tool for all those wishing to learn more about anatomy in a way that is both relaxing and fun.

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Book SynopsisAward-winning artist Hashim Akib's striking portraits are at the heart of this inspirational book. The subject of portraiture is seen by many as the zenith of art, and Hash's easygoing, unpretentious style puts fantastic results within the reach of hobby artists and aspiring professionals alike. Assuming nothing and starting from the basics – making it suitable even for the enthusiastic beginner – this book includes six step-by-step projects to follow; along with friendly but in-depth advice on colour palettes; skintone; composition; working from photographs and models; markmaking; lighting; atmosphere and much more. The book covers many types of portraiture – from the self-portrait to full-length portraits – all presented in Hash's striking, free and contemporary style.Trade Review'Exciting' is not normally a word springs to mind when discussing books on portraiture. 'Thorough', maybe, or 'comprehensive' - what you are mostly looking for is something that describes working methods clearly and illustrated the type of people you can relate to. This, though, is something different. Hashim Akib captures likenesses well, but he also introduces a sense of character, personality and presence through his trademark dynamic brushwork. It would be all too easy for this to fall wide of the mark, becoming mannered, or maybe too individual to have more general appeal. Instead, and this is down to his very considerable technical expertise, the book makes you want to get started and even to try Hashim's own demonstrations - they're people you feel you'd really like to meet. Excitement on its own would not be enough, of course, so be assured that this is thorough and comprehensive as well. * The Artist *Hashim has yet again written a bold exciting and informative book. His colour use is just perfectly shown. He explains how to paint portraits so well that it makes it so much easier to attempt. It makes painting so much fun and lets artists go for it, in a controlled, but free way. I have learnt so much reading this book and will be painting this way with excitement ahead. Wow, thanks. -- Melanie Bettridge * Customer review *Being a huge fan of Hash's style, I eagerly anticipated the arrival of this latest book and was not disappointed. This is a great book for getting an insight into an artist's process, it's like having a personal workshop which you can keep referring back to. Acrylics are not the obvious medium choice for portraiture but the strong and dynamic style Hashim uses is both inspiring and contemporary. He makes it look so simple and easy! There are several step by step examples to guide you, from initial planning though the sculptural painting process, lots of hints and tips, and insights into making portrait painting loose but exciting. From lighting and expressions to mark making, Hashim explains in detail his method and the materials used. The biggest setback to a beginner or the casual hobby artist, is the confidence required to use the paint so freely, and have the observation skills required to get the best results, hopefully this book will inspire you to take the large leap of faith and try it. So if you are a beginner looking for different ways in which to tackle the complex area of portraiture or somebody more advanced wanting to experiment with or change to a more colourful and loose approach, I would urge everyone to get this book, have a go and try emulating this style. -- Michelle Tilston Fletcher * Customer review *This is a book that's full of life and of a love of people as well as painting. Hashim will show you how to capture not just the appearance of your subject, but also their character. This is an dynamic author who's not only enthusiastic about his subject, but excellent at conveying that and explaining his methods. * The SAA *FACE FACTS Learn the basics of portraiture and how to unleash your own painting techniques with this guide by artist Hashim Akib Rather than taking a formal learning approach in his book, artist and author Hashim Akib explains useful portrait painting concepts while also encouraging you to explore your own style. It opens with an introduction to tools and materials, before setting aside chapters to compositional exercises, colour theory and detailed painting tutorials. So far, so familiar. But this book’s selling point is that it knows it’s a jumping-off point for further experimentation. Hobbyists will benefit from the advice on paint application and colour mixing, while experienced artists will appreciate the technical know-how on display in the step-by-step guides. The final chapters show you how to push what you’ve learnt even further with lessons on texture, profiles and unusual expressions. As Hashim says in his introduction, photography has had a huge impact on portraiture. With this in mind, his guide is a valuable exploration of how contemporary portraiture can still be relevant today, and what you need to consider if you want to create engaging paintings with personality. Working from one reference photo, Hashim Akib explains how he paints skin tones and uses just a few extra brush marks to describe the face. For this portrait piece, Hashim uses earthy and dark neutrals, which frame the warmer colours. -- Chris Allcock * Imagine Fx *This is the most exciting book I've ever seen about portrait painting. Hashim's paintings are dynamic and full of life. They're about as are removed from the often stuffy canvases you see on the walls of institutions as it's possible to get. Most books on portraiture concentrate on technique and getting a likeness. Frankly, if you want that, you should probably stick to photography. What painting can do is express character and provide an inner vision that gives a sense of presence, and that's here in profusion. I wouldn't want you to think there's nothing here about technique-there's plenty of it, but it's bound up with actual paintings that show how things work in practice, rather than theory. There is, for example, a very handy section on facial features- eyes, noses and mouths. Hashim still manages to tell you more about the differences between men and women and racial types than you'll find in many other books. So, you see, this is a book that teaches by example-and what examples! Every kind of face is here and there are quite a few different styles of painting too, including some startling uses of colour. It's that kind of book. I've often spoken about the ones which will have you itching to get out your brushes and this is another example of them. Even if you've never painted a portrait in your life, you can't help feeling your feet starting to tap and wanting to get up and dance with Hashim. * Paint Magazine *“Exciting” isn’t normally a word I’d associated with portraiture. “Thorough”, “lifelike”, maybe even “vibrant”, but it’s not normally a subject to get the pulses racing. This, though, is astounding. Hashim’s style is quite blocky and, if you were looking for almost photographic realism, this is not for you. You actually have to look at the finished results for a few seconds before the features of the faces emerge. When they do, however, they’re full of character and these are people whose presence you can feel. This is something that all portrait painters strive for, but it’s one of the most difficult qualities to achieve. If personality is your goal, place your order now. I think it also helps that Hashim appears simply to like people. I don’t think it would be possible to get results like this if you simply regarded your subjects as a job. There’s a warmth here, and an understanding of the life and light behind mere structure and outward appearance. This isn’t really something that can be taught, so I’d suggest you might simply want to learn from example here – don’t expect a magic ingredient. In practical terms, the book offers all the variety you could want. There are male and female figures, different hair styles and skin colours and a wide range of ages. Hashim explains colour, lighting and perspective and he’s also rather good on the main features – eyes, noses, ears, etc. Here, his style is your friend as its vibrancy makes what is inevitably a rather technical section interesting and – well – exciting. -- Henry Malt * Art Book Review *Like most painters, I find painting portraits challenging. I found this book very interesting because for me it has a new approach. Treating the face like blocks. Akib tells us to beware of realism. This book enables you to master the essentials and capture the atmosphere, the character. It's worth looking at no matter what your skill, for the treatment is quite different. Plenty of examples, male, female, young, old. Follow the 6 varied step-by-step projects. Faces, features and even full length portraits are covered. I particularly like the unusual expressions pages and the way they were presented. One thing of note, I found I liked the older style and not his new way of using very thick paint, but that is just personal preference and it is good to experiment and try different styles and ways of using paint. Also close-ups are not how the paintings will appear when viewed on a wall. I cannot believe it is 7 years since his last book, what a lot he has achieved. -- Karen Platt * Amazon *Painting Portraits in Acrylics is a practical guide to contemporary portraiture by Hashim Akib. Award-winning artists Hashim Akib's striking portraits are at the heart of this inspirational book. Hash's easy-going, unpretentious style puts fantastic results within the reach of hobby artists and aspiring professionals alike. Assuming nothing and starting from the basics, making it suitable even for the enthusiastic beginner, this book includes six step-by-step projects to follow, along with friendly but in-depth advice on colour palettes, skin tone, composition, working from photographs and models, mark making, lighting; atmosphere and much more. The book covers many types of portraiture from the self-portrait to full-length portraits, all presented in Hash's striking, free and contemporary style. * Leisure Painter *Starting from the basics, award-winning artist Hashim Akib shows you how to paint portraits in acrylics with an engaging and easy-to-follow style. Covering all styles of portraiture, from self-portraits to full-length portraits, the book includes six step-by-step projects to follow. These provide in-depth advice on colour palettes, skin tones, composition and lighting as well as how to work from photographs and models, plus much more. The book is aimed at beginners, but there's plenty for the more proficient artist to enjoy here. * The Artist *Table of ContentsIntroduction Materials Starting out The Robot Ideas and planning A face that tells a story Age & Experience Light Colour Painting skin Full Length Portrait Painting self portraits Self portrait Going further Choosing a face Attitude and expression Young Girl Portrait in profile Index

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Book SynopsisThe second title in a new series elevates your skills in composition and narrative with guidance from established world-class artists. As an established authority on art and design with a growing stable of high-calibre artist–authors, 3dtotal Publishing is uniquely placed to produce Artists’ Master Series. Launched in 2021 with Artists’ Master Series: Color & Light, the second volume in this exciting new series takes another deep dive into key areas of art theory, this time spotlighting composition and narrative. No matter what medium you work in, this combination can be the driving force that elevates art from “good” to “world-class”.This book takes these fundamentals and pushes them to an advanced level of understanding and application. To achieve this ambitious brief, a select few, hugely popular industry experts reveal how they plan and execute these techniques. Their in-depth illustrated advice, detailed step-by-step tutorials, enlightening case studies, and awe-inspiring inspiration provide a distinctive and invaluable blend of professional-grade techniques that can’t be found anywhere else. For artists and designers aiming to raise their game to expert level, the Artists’ Masters Series is the key to success.

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Book Synopsis The Landscape Painter’s Workbook is the definitive hands-on guide to the time-honored techniques and essential elements of landscape painting.Written by celebrated landscape artist, instructor, and author Mitchell Albala, this richly informative and beautifully illustrated volume leads you step by step through his approach to the genre, from establishing a composition using basic shapes to applying time-tested color strategies, with all-new lessons, practical exercises, and special topics, including: The Complete Color Strategy. What are the three aspects of color contrast that guide a painting’s strategy? Notan. Explore this special type of compositional study, which identifies the underlying shapes and patterns of a composition. Picture Formats. How does the picture format—horizontal, vertical, or square—affect the composition? What are the pros anTrade Review“It encapsulates everything I want to get across to my students in my workshops…This book explains everything.” * Charlie Hunter, painter and host of Reasonably Fine Art Talk *“This rich and informative new guide is particularly strong on color and composition, offering detailed diagrams and simple strategies for getting the most out of your palette.” * Artists & Illustrators Magazine *“Mitchell’s new book is like opening a beautiful travel guide to exotic destinations—there’s so much to explore: shapes, composition, color, and more. The Landscape Painter’s Workbook will no doubt become my comfortably worn and dog-eared ‘road-atlas’ by my side as I explore the wondrous world of landscape painting.” * Carol Olson, host of The Artful Painter Podcast *"Helps artists, from beginners to experienced, apply the lessons and build their skills." * Artists Magazine *“Mitchell writes very well, so well in fact that this new book transcends genre, making it useful to all artists, not just landscape painters. I work in still life, yet am finding these exercises enormously helpful. Bravo!” * Margaret Davidson, author of Contemporary Drawing: Key Concepts and Techniques *“Has great focus and organization. It discusses topics in depth that are often glossed over, if mentioned at all.” * Steve Whitney, painter and instructor *"Mitchell has a lot of respect for his readers. It's not easy to explain what goes through one's mind when you're painting, but he puts into words some very complex ideas and says them so clearly.” * Sue Charles, painter *“I had thought you covered just about everything in your first book, but The Landscape Painter’s Workbook takes it to another level.” * Bill Hook, painter *“Your ability to dissect a painting and clearly describe its important qualities makes the book a valuable asset for any serious student, as well as experienced painters alike.” * Bill Vrscak, painter *

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Book SynopsisColor Theory features everything an artist might need to know about colour, including colour psychology, pigment characteristics and terms, colour schemes, colour mixing, shadows, highlights, and much more. Regardless of your medium, a solid understanding of colour and its applications is essential. With a fresh, contemporary take on the subject of colour, this essential guide features step-by-step projects and practical tips and techniques to put colour knowledge to effective use.Table of ContentsIntroduction Getting Started Section 1: The History of Color Color & Art History What is Color? Section 2: Color Basics The Color Wheel Hue, Saturation & Value Color & Value Color Temperature Color Relativity Color Schemes Section 3: Pigments & Paints Mineral vs. Modern Pigments Pigment Properties Color Mixing Section 4: Communicating with Color Painting Light & Shadow Color & Mood Color & Painting Styles Color & Composition Section 5: Color in Action Personal Approaches to Color Closing Words

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Book SynopsisThis repackaged edition of this best-selling guide to anatomy in art that will help artists of all levels to improve their life-drawing skills. Unlock your inner artist and discover how to draw the human body in this beautifully-illustrated art book by celebrated artist and teacher, Sarah Simblet. Whether you''re looking to develop a new skill this New Year, or develop your drawing skills even further, this visually-striking guide offers a fresh approach to drawing the human body. Dive straight in to discover: -Over 250 specially-commissioned photographs and drawings -Covers each part of the human body from head to toe -10 masterclasses demonstrate how famous artists have depicted the human body-Practical advice and top-tips on life drawing Combining stunning photographs of models with historical and contemporary works of art and her own dynamic life drawing, Sarah will take you on a journey inside the human body to map its skeleton, muscle groups and body systems. Bring your artwork to life in the most dynamic way possible, with detailed line drawings superimposed over photographs to reveal the links between the body''s appearance and it''s construction. Featuring inspirational master classes on world-famous artworks, from Michelangelo to Hans Holbein, Ingres to Degas and more, discover how artists have depicted the human body over centuries. Each master class features a photograph of a model holding the same pose as in the painting, to highlight key details of anatomy and show how the artist has interpreted them.Understanding anatomy is the foundation to understanding the human body successfully. As well as being the perfect reference, Anatomy for the Artist will inspire you to find a model, reach for your pencil and start drawing! Let DK plant the seed of curiosity and watch as it develops into a life-long love of art, anatomy and more. A must-have volume for artists of all levels who wish to tackle life drawing, or those interested in human anatomy, whether as a gift or self-purchase.

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Book Synopsis"Charming book for creative types who find a blank page a little too overwhelming." - The Guardian"In her charming journal-cum sketchbook, Matilda Tristram inspires us to look at the everyday things in life in a new way. As well as encouraging us to explore the extraordinary in the ordinary, she also provides guidance, insights, tips and inspiration." - Flow Magazine "Whether you're on the train to work, in the park on your lunch break or people watching at your local coffee shop, Matilda's book will help you see the world through fresh eyes!" - The Big Draw. Explore the extraordinary in the simple and ordinary with with My Year in Small Drawings: a charming visual diary like no other! Learn to see everyday things in a new way by creating and collecting the small details around you. Build up dozens of dinky drawings, from tangles of cables, to window frames and tree buds, and notice the simple - and sometimes surprising - beauty of every day scenes and objects by drawing them. With 365 daily prompts and space to explore each, expert advice on how to simplify what you see; which pens and pencils to use; colour; and using perspective, plus suggestions for drawing every day of the year, this beautiful little book will help you embrace your creativity, and build up a unique and delightful collection of personal sketches for you to cherish, forever. Whether you're an experienced artist, someone looking to get back into sketching, or you can't draw at all, this book is for you!If you like this book, you might also be interested in I Can't Draw. . . Trade Review"This charming journal will encourage you to pay more attention to your surroundings and help record moments, objects or scenes you want to remember." * The Simple Things *""This gorgeous little book can accompany you everywhere and really does help you appreciate the little things that you might otherwise miss. The illustrations are perfect for inspiring your own creativity – even if you're someone who doesn't usually draw." * Oh Comely *"This is a beguiling small journal that provides an easy framework for anyone who might not know quite where to start with their mark making." * Slow Muse *"It's both a visual diary presenting some sweet, energetic sketches and a guide to drawing itself: each page offers her valuable insights on abstract things, like how to see the world anew by drawing it, as well as more technical aspects of drawing like which pens and pencils to use for different tasks and how best to use colour. It's like one of those ubiquitous colouring books, but better." * Creative Boom *"Matilda shows you how to easily copy the objects all around you. You’ll find it’s very calming." * Daphne's Diary *"This book encourages you to draw, draw lots, and make the most of each day, as she evidently does. Who could argue with that?" * Urban Sketchers London *"Inspiring and fun, the book examines how to draw with purpose and look outwards to find the stories of the places and things around you. The more you draw, the more it may feel natural and flow like writing. The book provides guidance, tips and inspiration throughout." * Psychologies *"Cleverly designed to be carried around, My Year In Small Drawings invites you to notice and draw the simplest details in life, from your daily commute to curious travels around the world. Plus, Matilda Tristram offers her expert advice on colour and tools so you can observe, sketch and enjoy!" * Papercrafter *"This charming paperback inspires everyone to sketch daily life; the underlying purpose is drawing as mindfulness, but it could be just for fun!" * Daily Mail *"By actively encouraging us to slow down and look at the world around us, books like these enable us to take time out of our busy lives and just enjoy the present moment." * The Book Bag *"Like draw-it-yourself Instagram. The book is a route to mindfulness and a way to get more creative, which has been shown to benefit health." * Clearly Magazine *"If you've ever struggled with the enormous pressure that a blank page or canvas demands of you, then Matilda's 'My Year in Small Drawings' is just the ticket to ease you back into the joys of drawing or help you have a go for the very first time! "Whether you're on the train to work, in the park on your lunch break or people watching at your local coffee shop, Matilda's book will help you see the world through fresh eyes!" * The Big Draw *"Perfectly sized for travelling or a daily commute, this small journal is for drawing the things that surround you." * Art Sharp *

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Book SynopsisFind Your Frame is a creative workshop with everything you always wanted to know from street photography master Craig Whitehead. Trade Review"This is the best photo book I’ve read all year...Buy a copy of Find Your Frame, read it, and then experience this genre for yourself; It might move you out of your comfort zone. Who knows, it could change your photography and maybe your life." * Joe Farace, photographer and writer *Table of Contents Foreword Street your way Find your tribe Make kit count Get out there Limber up Scope the scene Don’t be shy Spot one-offs See in retrospect Own your shot Contrast to intrigue Mix up perspective Follow the light Abstract the world Know your patch Be a sharp critic Let your images shine Pop the Insta bubble Stay curious Index

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Book SynopsisMindful Artist: Sumi-e Painting teaches you to create your own beautiful, Japanese-inspired ink wash paintings while cultivating a mindful approach to making art. Centuries ago, Buddhist monks used black ink and brushes to practice mindfulness and create gorgeously harmonious works of art called "sumi-e paintings." The popularity of sumi-e, or ink wash painting, continues to this day. Mindfulness remains an essential element of sumi-e painting, allowing artists to focus on their surroundings, live in the moment, and feel present—thereby reducing their stress. Walter Foster’s new Mindful Artist series encourages you to enjoy working in your favorite media to create art from a reflective point of view—an inspiring, relaxing experience that emphasizes the creative process, rather than the end result. These books are designed to help you move past creative obstacles, like a perfectionist attitude toward making art or self-defeating concerns about your personal talent and abilities. These guides will not only help you stay mindful throughout the process, but also to find personal meaning in the artwork you create. Mindful Artist: Birds & Botanicals publishes in November 2021.Mindful Artist: Sumi-e Painting opens with an introduction explaining the links between mindfulness and sumi-e and how they enhance one another. Sections on “The Four Treasures,” as the tools needed for sumi-e painting are called; brushstrokes and painting techniques; and “The Four Gentlemen,” or the most common subjects in sumi-e painting, ensure that you have a solid background before getting started on the simple, approachable step-by-step painting projects. Throughout the book you can find stunning full-page artwork, tips for remaining mindful while you work, creative prompts and exercises, inspirational ideas, and suggestions on how to add color to black ink pieces. Learn to practice mindfulness while you master the popular art of ink wash painting with this inspiring and supportive guide.Table of ContentsIntroduction Tools & Materials Preparing to Paint Introduction to Brushes, Ink & Paper Painting Subjects The Four Gentlemen Bamboo Orchid Plum Chrysanthemum Iris Peony Insects Wisteria Grapes Lotus & Kingfisher Bird Basics Bird Adventures Rocks & Waterfalls Signing Your Painting Suggestions from My Library About the Artist Dedication & Acknowledgments

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Book SynopsisThis book demystifies the art and practice of drawing. Through fifty drawings by great masters past and present, the techniques and ideas behind their master sketches will put you on the path to making your own great drawings. The entries also feature exercises with step-by-step instructions as well as simple diagrams providing further visual explanation to the jargon-free discussion. For aspiring artists of all ages and abilities, Read This if You Want to Be Great at Drawing will motivate and strengthen your drawing talent. Read This if You Want to Be Great at Drawing is part of the internationally-bestselling ‘Read This’ series, which has sold over half-a-million books worldwide and has been translated into over 20 languages. Coming soon: Read This if You Want to Be Great at Drawing People by Selwyn Leamy (September 2019) More titles in the ‘Read This’ series: Use This if You Want to Be Great at Drawing by Selwyn Leamy (9781786274052) Read This if You Want to Take Great Photographs by Henry Carroll (9781780673356) Read This if You Want to Take Great Photographs of People by Henry Carroll (9781780676241) Read This if You Want to Take Great Photographs of Places by Henry Carroll (9781780679051) Use This if You Want to Take Great Photographs: A Photo Journal by Henry Carroll (9781780678887) Read This if You Want to Be a Great Writer by Ross Raisin (9781786271976) Read This if You Want to Be Instagram Famous edited by Henry Carroll (9781780679679)

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