The Arts: techniques and principles Books

Book SynopsisTake your first steps with pastels and learn how to produce modern, lively and colourful artwork with this exciting medium. 'This thorough guide to the rewarding medium of pastel will teach you much more than just the basics and may be the only pastel book you'll ever need!' - The SAA Artist and teacher Rebecca de Mendonça offers the beginner a complete course in using pastels. Easy-to-follow techniques for soft and hard pastels. 8 projects broken down into simple steps. Includes a wealth of finished paintings to provide ideas and inspiration. Step-by-step exercises and longer projects help you to build essential skills and allow you to produce a range of pictures, including landscapes, still life, portraits and animals. Vital drawing skills are explained and demonstrated, along with an easy-to-follow guide to colour theory, and a huge wealth of finished paintings provide ideas and inspiration for your own future pastel work.Trade ReviewThis thorough guide to the rewarding medium of pastel will teach you much more than just the basics and may be the only pastel book you'll ever need! Rebecca introduces new techniques in an eminently practical way, demonstrating detail and loose styles of working, giving you the chance to explore the medium as widely as possible. * The SAA *Although this is a superb introduction to the rewarding medium of pastels, it’s also a whole lot more. Rebecca is a versatile artist whose skills run to just about any subject. Her results are breath-taking and this is one of the most thorough guides I’ve ever seen. I’d even go so far as to say it might be the only book you’ll ever need. After the obligatory introduction to materials and basic techniques, the book immediately starts to get practical and you might be forgiven for thinking you’ve moved on to the exercises and demonstrations. In fact, you’re still practising techniques, shading and textures, just not through the sort of geometric shapes that many books subject you to. Once you’re confident and competent, you’ll move on to full-scale demonstrations that cover landscapes, waterscapes, trees, skies, buildings, animals and people (I told you it was comprehensive!). There are plenty of steps and concise but thorough instructions, as well as hints and tips galore. I really can’t praise this enough. It’s so much more than the title suggests and a must for any pastellist. -- Henry Malt * SAA Paint Magazine *Leisure Painter contributor, Rebecca de Mendoca, introduces pastels to the complete beginner in her new book, Pastels for the Absolute Beginner. Rebecca is an experienced tutor and understands the problems many people face when starting a new medium. Using clear step-by-step exercises she will show you how to begin-from setting up your workspace, and basic pastel techniques-to using colour, composition and adding life to your paintings. The range of subjects covered includes still life, landscapes, portraits and animals, and the many examples of Rebecca's works are sure to inspire you. * Leisure Painter *The idea of an Absolute Beginner series is a good one. Anyone taking up painting, or starting with a new medium needs a sound guide that is well-grounded in the basics and assumes no previous knowledge. The book is certainly thorough. Subjects include landscapes, waterscapes, people and animals, with skies, trees and waves thrown in along the way. Rebecca is primarily a portrait and equestrian artist and this shows – these are easily her strongest subjects. However, she is thoroughly at home with her medium and handles everything well. Her demonstrations and explanations are concise, but easy to follow. They will, I think, be of value to anyone – at whatever level – working with pastel. -- Henry Malt * Art Book Review *This unassuming, but not insubstantial book is a bit of a wolf in sheep’s clothing. Although billed as an introduction it is actually one of the best and most comprehensive books on pastel there has been in a long time – possibly ever. Books on pastel usually either cover landscapes, because that’s the most popular subject and sales volumes matter, or are fairly simple technical introductions that can lack any real sense of creative endeavour. Rebecca de Mendonça, whose first book this is, is an artist of very considerable ability who is up to the task of tackling subjects that range from landscapes and beach scenes to figures, animals and still life’s. There is plenty of technical information, but also demonstrations and exercises a-plenty and so much to get your teeth into that you’ll never be stuck for inspiration or left feeling you want more. -- Henry Malt * The Artist *Table of ContentsIntroduction 6 Materials 8 Setting up your workspace 12 Starting to draw 16 Pastel techniques 28 Bauble – step by step 36 Teasel – step by step 46 Colour 56 Rolling Fields – step by step 62 Landscapes 70 Rocky Tor – step by step 74 Billowing Clouds – step by step 92 The Birches – step by step 104 Life in your paintings 110 Child with Fishing Net – step by step 120 Toby – step by step 130 Composition 140 Index 144

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Book SynopsisArt Fundamentals 2nd Edition is a fully revised and updated back-to-basics title, packed with the fundamental concepts, conventions, and theory every beginner artist needs to create successful work. This essential book is written by industry experts who thoroughly address key basics including color and light, composition, perspective and depth, and anatomy in a series of insightful chapters. As well as being the perfect introduction for newcomers, Art Fundamentals 2nd Edition also offers experienced artists the chance to brush up on their theory and discover new tricks, tips, and techniques to advance their art even further. Richly illustrated throughout for optimal learning, each section of the book is specifically designed to guide the reader through the essential yet often challenging elements that make up the foundations of art, no matter which medium or technique is used. As fascinating and illuminating as it is practical and essential, Art Fundamentals 2nd Edition contains the foundations of art, presented, taught, and completely demystified for the today’s artist.

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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 SynopsisZentangle(R) 11 is a colouring activity book for adults that contains 30original tangles, complete with inspirational quotes, sentiments and uplifting words to help you unwind and de-stress. You don't need to be a calligrapher to create your own extraordinary art using coloured pencils, felt-tips, crayons, gel pens, water colours, marker pens and more.Allow your drawings to express themselves by combining letters with inspirational Zentangle art. Text-inspired tangling can be anything you desire it to be, from classic tiles to expressive words and shapes. You can make your letters fun and casual, or formal and flowery, with messages that are personal, social, reverential or whimsical.This inspirational colouring activity book is printed on high-quality, extra-thick paper that won't bleed through, and all of the pages are perforated for easy removal and display. Let your creativity flow as you produce wonderfully motivating note cards, bookmarks, gifts, fine art and more!

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Book SynopsisLearn dynamic sketching and watercolor techniques for creating cityscapes, landscapes, figures and faces, still lifes, and more, enhancing the story you want to tell with form, line, and color. Discover incredible methods and tips for creating dramatic street scenes and vivid landscapes, and capturing dynamic figures and graphic architectural details. Artist Alex Hillkurtz—a top Hollywood storyboard artist, international workshop instructor, and Signature Member of the National Watercolor Society—presents fundamental concepts of sketching with pencil and pen for a number of popular genres. Discover simple ways to jot down spontaneous ideas in pencil, capture rough details in ink, and add watercolor for extra depth and interest. Make sketching more enjoyable by adopting innovative techniques that will make a difference in your practice, and your artwork. No matter your experience or skill level, you’ll benefit from learning: Compositions that draw the eye How to avoid common sketching mistakes Ways to create light and shadow to define shapes and add interest Successful ways to use negative space The importance of perspective in creating depth Easy color washes that create drama Get started today, and fill your sketchbooks with unique drawings and paintings you will be proud of. The For Artists series expertly guides and instructs artists at all skill levels who want to develop their classical drawing and painting skills and create realistic and representational art. Trade Review"An ideal DIY instructional combination of textbook, guide and 'how to' manual, exceptionally 'user friendly' in organization and presentation making it especially and unreservedly recommended ." * Midwest Book Review *"Emphasizes the power of storytelling through drawings, with plentiful tips and suggestions on how to capture mood, energy and narrative." * Artists Magazine *Table of ContentsIntroduction1 MATERIALS AND TOOLS A Personal Choice Pens, Pencils, and Inks Paper and Sketchbooks Brushes Watercolor Paint Miscellaneous Tools2 GENERAL SKETCHING TECHNIQUES Using the Language of Film to Tell a Story Selecting What to Sketch Rendering Light in a Sketch Details3 COMPOSITION Telling a Story The Rule of Thirds Contrast and Detail Thumbnail Sketches4 PERSPECTIVE Basic Bones Linear Perspective The Horizon Line One-Point Perspective Two-Point Perspective Three-Point Perspective Perspective on a Curved Street5 STILL LIFE A Poem Made Visible A New Way to See Objects Rendering Light Adding Color Structure Negative Space6 LANDSCAPES Landscape Composition Sketching Landscapes and Line Weight Atmospheric Perspective7 ARCHITECTURE An Overview of Basic Forms Roofs Doorways and Arches Windows Balconies Awnings Signs Architecture as Character8 FIGURES The Basic Figure Adding Volume Capturing Gesture Drawing Figures in Groups Drawing the Head9 WATERCOLOR Dancing with Watercolor Creating Multiple Effects with One Color Creating Texture: Splatters, Splashes, and Scrapes Color Mixing Warm and Cool Colors Painting with a Limited Palette Stages of a Painting The Color and Consistency of Shadows Contre Jour Conclusion: Keep Going Resources Influences Acknowledgments About the Author Index

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Book SynopsisArt for Self-Care gives artists and non-artists alike tools to process emotions, reset, and express themselves through the healing powers of art. Trade Review"Perhaps the best thing about this title from artist, designer, and online instructor Swift is that it is for artists and non-artists alike; there is no set skill level required to heal through art. ... This is an excellent companion for those who may need to express themselves and heal but aren’t sure where to start." * Library Journal *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION My Story, My Process Whom This Book Is For Artmaking for Healing and Processing Feelings Getting Set Up My Invitation to You 1 GOING INWARD Your Journey Begins Making Your Process Sacred/Taking Your Process Seriously Sinking Down and Settling In Getting into Acceptance Tuning In Navigating in the Depths Hearing Your Inner Voice Ears Outward, Heart Forward, Mind Inward Your Messages Prompts 2 INSIDES OUTWARD Diving In Trust the Process Your Inner Child Techniques and Supplies to Try Surfaces to Consider The Process Finding Visual Inspiration Incorporating Personal Symbols There Are No Rules Showing Up Focus on the Process The Importance of Practice 3 INTEGRATING + HONORING Tracking Your Feelings What to Do When Your Image Is Complete Honoring Yourself Keep Showing Up Trust Yourself You Are Magic Final Words ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ABOUT THE AUTHOR INDEX

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Book SynopsisExplore and create expressive palettes and paintings with Color Harmony for Artists. Watercolor author, artist, and teacher Ana Victoria Calderon guides you through choosing, mixing, and using color with watercolor and mixed media to create the most expressive and appealing combinations and effects for a wide range of moods and subjects. You'll explore a variety of subjects and themes, including flowers, foliage, landscapes, skies, cities, figures, art movements, and historical eras. Begin with a quick overview of the basics of color, color mixing, and mixed media. Explore a variety of color and media combinations, including brilliant brights, muted neutrals, high-contrast complements, and special effects. Find inspiration in evocative photos, abundant palettes, and beautiful paintings. With Color Harmony for Artists, every artist, from beginner to advanced, will be inspired to embrace the creative possibilities of color and paint!Table of ContentsPREFACE HANDS-ON COLOR THEORY The Color Wheel Color Harmonies Color & Temperature Warm & Cool Variations Watercolor Paints for Swatching INSPIRED PALETTES Capturing moods and playing with textures in beautiful swatches of watercolor mixes that reflect a variety of visual inspirations Notable Art Movements Expressive Skies Colorful Cultures Animal Wonders Cities, Towns & Destinations Influential Eras Remarkable Landscapes Florals & Still Life Mineral Riches Human Hues TEMPLATE RESOURCES ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ABOUT THE AUTHOR INDEX

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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 SynopsisFeaturing drawing lessons, step-by-step projects, and open practice pages, The Little Book of Drawing Dragons & Fantasy Characters teaches beginning artists how to draw dragons, fairies, mythological beasts, and more. Step-by-step projects, creative exercises, interactive prompts, and helpful tips and techniques bring this popular drawing subject to life and invite creativity and personalization. Drawing techniques, such as value, shading, and creating texture and perspective, are included to help artists of all skill levels learn to draw accurately. Learn to draw fur, scales, wings, tails, and how to put them all together to create your own unique fantasy characters and artwork. More than 15 step-by-step projects include: Western Dragon Eastern Dragon Water Dragon Hydra Centaur Fairy Minotaur Griffin Unicorn And more! In the popular, established The Little Book of... series from Walter Foster Publishing, artists and art hobbyists alike delight in learning a variety of fun, approachable, relevant, and interesting art topics in a portable format boasting a fresh, contemporary, and interactive design. Open practice pages, creative exercises, and art prompts encourage interactivity for immediate results while teaching beginners the fundamentals of the featured medium in a fun, engaging way.Also available from the series:The Little Book of Sketching, The Little Book of Lettering & Word Design, The Little Book of Manga Drawing, The Little Book of Cartooning & Illustration, and The Little Book of Rock Painting.Trade ReviewThe Little Book of Drawing Dragons & Fantasy Characters: More than 50 Tips and Techniques for Drawing Fantastical Fairies, Dragons, Mythological Beasts, and More lives up to its title with instructions, methodical examples, guidelines, and blank "practice pages" that the reader can use to hone their artistic skills. A wonderful supplementary resource for budding artists of all ages and backgrounds, it also makes an excellent gift! * Midwest Book Review *Table of ContentsIntroduction Tools & MaterialsPart I: The Basics Drawing & Shading Techniques Constructing Creatures Creating Textures Creature FeaturesPart II: Dragons Western Dragon Eastern Dragon Wyvern Wyrm Water Dragon Hydra Sui RiuPart III: Fantasy Creatures Centaur Fairy Minotaur Satyr Griffin UnicornPart IV: Color Applications Tools & Materials Dragon in Marker Pegasus in Colored Pencil & Marker Snow Fairy in Colored Pencil Wisteria Fairy in WatercolorAbout the Authors

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Book SynopsisBarry Herniman shows the reader how to capture the essence of a scene, and to inject that extra something: mood and atmosphere. This 'extra something' is what many watercolour artists seek, and it is clearly explained and beautifully demonstrated in this practical and enthralling guide to painting a variety of landscapes. This beautiful book brings Barry Herniman's stunning artwork to the fore with a sumptuous redesign, complete with new inspirational artworks and expanded sections on colour mixing and techniques.Trade ReviewCharacter, ambience and style add up to striking and memorable paintings. Expert artist Barry Herniman shares his secrets so you can invest your watercolours with all three. This new expanded edition of the book brings Barry's stunning artwork to the fore with a sumptuous redesign, complete with new inspirational artworks and expanded information on colour mixing and watercolour techniques. 5 step-by-step projects Dozens of inspirational finished paintings All techniques clearly explained and demonstrated. * The Artist *Painting Mood and Atmosphere in Watercolour by Barry Herniman 'Herr Flick' is back again, doing what he does best – making watercolours sing with colour and light, no traditional pale paintings to be found here. Barry makes his watercolour paintings look more like acrylics with his strong tones and use of vivid colours. Barry describes his favourite techniques, in particular, paint flicking. He also runs through the materials he uses and recommends, and gives an insight into how he works as an artist - via his use of a sketchbook through to the final painting. -- Michele Tilston Fletcher * Customer review *Popular artist and tutor, Barry Herniman shows you how to use watercolour to create mood and atmosphere in your paintings. Information on materials, colour mixing and techniques is followed by step-by-step demonstrations that clearly explain how to use your medium to best advantage. The demonstrations include breaking waves, stormy skies, weathered timbers, frosty morning and harbour lights. * Leisure Painter *This isn't a new book (it first appeared in 2004), but it's always been one of the best and this revised edition contains much re-origination as well as new material that brings it bang up to date. I'm always conflicted about recommending expanded re-issues. Should I tell you it's definitely worth buying a book you perhaps already have, which it often is; or should I suggest that, if you're happy with what you've got, your next purchase should be something new? In the end, all I can do is tell you what I like and leave the decision to you. Mood and atmosphere are those indefinable qualities that make a painting sing and give the viewer a sense of what it was like to be there when the scene was painted. "Each of us has our own perfect time of day, a favourite season or certain weather conditions that set our senses alight," says Barry. "When these elements prevail, that is the time to get painting." That takes care of the creative aspects: it's about being enthused yourself so you can put your feelings into your work, But there are practical considerations as well. Colour, light and composition all play a part and Barry explains how to use these elements to achieve the results you want. His subjects include landscapes, buildings, skies and water and his techniques involve balancing the elements of composition, the use of perspective and contrasting colour and the careful placing of highlights. This particular reissue makes for an exciting and inspirational read. * Paint magazine *Table of ContentsIntroduction Materials Colour mixing Seasonal atmosphere Capturing the mood Techniques Using a sketchbook Step-by-step demonstrations Breaking Waves Stormy Skies Weathered Timbers Frosty Morning Harbour ‘Lights’ Index

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Book SynopsisAward-winning illustrator Gabriel Campanario first introduced his approach to drawing in The Art of Urban Sketching, a showcase of more than 500 sketches and drawing tips shared by more than 100 urban sketchers around the world. Now, he drills down into specific challenges of making sketches on location, rain or shine, quickly or slowly, and the most suitable techniques for every situation, in The Urban Sketching Handbook series. It's easy to overlook that ample variety of buildings and spaces and the differences from city to city, country to country. From houses, apartments and shopping malls to public buildings and places of worship, the structures humans have created over the centuries, for shelter, commerce, industry, transportation or recreation, are fascinating subjects to study and sketch.In The Urban Sketching Handbook: Architecture and Cityscapes, Gabriel lays out keys to help make the experience of drawing architecture and cityscapes fun and rewarding. Using composition, depth, scale, contrast, line and creativity, sketching out buildings and structure has never been more inspirational. This guide will help you to develop your own creative approach, no matter what your skill level may be today. As much as The Urban Sketching Handbook: Architecture and Cityscapes may inspire you to draw more urban spaces, it can also help to increase your appreciation of the built environment. Drawing the places where we live, work and play, is a great way to show appreciation and creativity.Trade Review“If you are looking to tingle those creative nerves in you, then this is the perfect book for you.” * Architecture Lab *

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Book SynopsisSketching and drawing are fundamental to creating great art; the simple doodle is often where the artist first brings their ideas and concepts to life. In Sketching from the Imagination: Dark Arts, we have gathered together fifty talented traditional and digital artists to showcase work from their sketchbooks, share inspiration, and give insight into how they create imaginative and dark illustrations. Featuring a range of artwork and artists from many fields, from concept design and animation to illustration and comic art, Sketching from the Imagination: Dark Arts is a collection of beautifully macabre sketches with plenty of useful tips and creative insights—an invaluable resource that will inspire artists of all abilities.

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Book SynopsisAn indispensable guide to the colors and combinations of contemporary Japanese design—by one of Japan's leading colorists!Color consultant Teruko Sakurai finds inspiration everywhere—in the foods, landscapes and everyday objects of her native land. Flipping through the pages of this book is like taking a tour through modern Japan. The tones, hues and palettes will dazzle and inspire you.Over 3,300 different color combinations are presented in over 125 different themes. Each two-page section in this book presents a different theme with the following information: An introduction giving a brief background on the color scheme and a description of how it can be used A number-coded nine-color palette board showing the range of shades and hues that complement and comprise the scheme CMYK, RGB and HEX (the color code used in Japan) references for all nine colors 26 examples including two- and three-color combinations with photos and illustrations This is an indispensable guide for graphic designers, illustrators, decorators, artists and publishing professionals. It will also be enjoyable and inspiring for readers planning their own home design or art projects.

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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 SynopsisDiscover how to draw majestic trees in realistic detail, step by easy step, with Drawing: Trees with William Powell. The qualities we most admire in trees are also what we value in ourselves or other people—strength, dignity, and perseverance. Perhaps this is why we’re naturally drawn to them as artistic subjects. From basic shapes to final details, this book teaches the step-by-step process of drawing a wide variety of trees. With just a little practice, you can create many different types of trees, each with its own unique qualities and elegance. With tips on drawing root patterns, branches, fallen trees, and bark and simple techniques for rendering cast shadows and ground foliage, Drawing: Trees with William F. Powell teaches artists how to draw a wide variety of trees in graphite pencil, from basic shapes to final details. Learn about basic tree shapes and leaf types, as well as the fundamentals of shading, composition, and perspective. Some of the step-by-step lessons included in this book are: Tree Trunks Branches & Boughs Root Patterns Foliage Textures Fallen Trees Majestic Oak Sierra Pines Sycamore Lane 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. Drawing: Trees with William F. Powell 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 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 SynopsisSuitable for artists, this guide captures facial expressions. It shows readers the expressions created by individual facial muscles, then draws them together in a section devoted to the six basic human emotions: sadness, anger, joy, fear, disgust and surprise.

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Book SynopsisEliot Goldfinger, a realistic sculptor and instructor of human and animal anatomy, has designed and written a reference work for artists and art students on the visual and descriptive components of human anatomy. The format is simple and accessible; all information about one aspect of a topic is set forth on facing pages. For example, the anterior leg muscle is illustrated in a series of precise anatomical drawings and well-lit photos, with text on origin, insertion, action, structure, and how it relates to creating surface form directly opposite the pictures. Unique to this book are photographs of a series of sculptures which show the basic volumes of the figure, revealing the basic principle of the dynamic between the form units of the body. No other artistic anatomy book is so well organized, detailed, and clearly rendered, and its illustrations are of exceptional quality.Trade Review`there are so many [other] useful benefits that this book is within an affordable range for young professional illustrators ... It is an extremely informative book and one which would remain a source of knowledge for years to come.' MAA News, April 1992`this is a very thorough anatomical reference book designed specifically for artists' Artists Newletter, August 1992`This is a learned and exceptionally thorough work which provides a definitive, copiously illustrated and highly accessible reference guide specifically for the artist ... the author has compiled and up-to-date single volume on artistic anatomy currently available ... Human Anatomy for Artists will, I am sure, prove an invaluable source of reference to all those interested in figurative art.' Oliver Lange, The ArtistTable of ContentsIntroduction; Skeleton; Muscles; Surface Structures; Proportion; Mass Conceptions/Geometry; Bibliography; Index

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Book SynopsisThis much anticipated sequel to "Totally Tangled" is just as tangled! Inside, the pages are jam-packed with Zentangle ideas, tips, projects and 60 new tangles. Zentangle is the perfect exercise to keep that big muscle inside your skull flexible.Trade ReviewZentangle is meditation achieved through patternmaking, allowing you to focus, relax your mind and boost your creative confidence. Zentangle is the perfect exercise to keep that big muscle inside your skull flexible. Yoga for the Brain pages are jam-packed with Zentangle ideas, tips, projects and 60 new tangles.When I first heard the term, Zentangle, I thought, "How fun and creative! I've just got to learn more about this." What I soon discovered, is that Zentangles are merely a form of doodling (an art form that has been in existence for centuries), in which you put together various doodles to create one, more complexed piece. The key, and the reason for the term, Zentangles, is that by incorporating various doodles into one piece, you are exercising the brain in such a way that it literally helps you become more calm and relaxed de-stressed. So when I heard about the book, "Yoga for your Brain" I was excited to see just how various pattern-drawings can work together to help the brain relax, calm down after a long day, and de-stress after a an emotionally trying experience. Sadly, I learned none of these things. "Yoga for your Brain" isn't about showing you how to use various pattern-drawings during various situations in your life, and it explains absolutely nothing about the Zentangle method other than a brief recap of what a Zentangle is (which is located in the beginning of the book). But wait! The book's not a complete loss. If you are familiar with Zentangles (which the book presumes you are), and you already understand its concept, then this is a great follow-up book. It takes you step-by-step through 60 new pattern-drawings. In the book you get a quick refresher course on the basics of Zentangles, how to use shading to enhance a pattern, how curves help accent a piece, and how to use small boxes to break down a complicated pattern and make it manageable. There's even a few tutorials on how to create a circular mindmap, transfer images using Sheer Heaven, create foam plates, use foam plates for printmaking, and make sculptures out of rocks that have been drawn on. And the best part is that it is full of sketches and photos, making the process of learning these 60 new pattern-drawings a breeze! Based on the contents of the book alone, and not what I had hoped the book to be, I could say that it's a book worth purchasing if you're ready to take your doodling to the next level, that is!I'm starting a new, irregular feature here at Four Rooms -- the Saturday Review. There are so many wonderful resources that I come across that I'd love to share with you all that I've decided to institute a series of book reviews, to be written as the mood strikes! The first book that I'd like to share deals with the artistic habit of Zentangles. If you haven't heard of Zentangles before, they're a kind of formalized doodling created by Rick Roberts and Maria Thomas ..... check out the Zentangle website and blog to learn all about this wonderful art form. Sandy Steen Bartholomew is a Certified Zentangle Facilitator and an artist who has added her flair to this new craft, and created a how-to book that goes in new directions. In her book, Yoga for the Brain, the basic forms of Zentangling are enhanced with ideas on how and where to find patterns to incorporate into your tangles (hint: nearly everywhere!) and ideas on how to use this technique in new ways -- for example, in portraits, for transfers, printmaking or to decorate your journal pages. It takes the contemplative notion of zen doodling and adds some alternate routes for creative expression. I admit, I like Zentangling. And so I read this book with keen interest. The only problem I had with it was that I read it in e-format. It's not great in that format; I wanted big pages with colour, pages that I could flip back and forth as I explored and cross-pollinated ideas. So I am pretty sure I'll be searching this one out in regular old book form -- it's one that I think I'll be referring to for a while! It is fun, colourful, cheery and rife with possibility. I love to see Zentanglers adding their own touch to the basics. This book is recommended for those who already have some familiarity with basics of Zentangling.When I first saw the book and the pictures, I immediately thought of quilting. I am a quilter and many of these patterns (bales & botto) match patterns in quilt tops or blocks (Pumpkin seeds & Drunkards path) and in the quilting that joins the sandwich of the quilt. Bellaposa is very much like a quilting feather pattern. The main difference between Zentangles and quilting would be the small detail lines that only a prize winning (read insane) quilter will sew into a quilt due to the time it would take. The author does mention quilting as a source of inspiration for her "Ballenchain" taken from the "Wedding Ring" block/pattern. The author makes an assumption that if you're reading this book, you already know the basic Zentangles, which I didn't. She does cover some of the basics but also uses terminology for beginning designs that I haven't seen to know what she was talking about. There are oodles of references to the doodles (Zentangles) in previous publications. I do like many of her names for her Zentangles - Ballenchain (Ball and chain based on the wedding ring - bad marriage experience?) and Pingline (penguins in a line). The reading is easy and light. The author's style is fun and whimsy. She covers more in this book that I first realize. Beyond drawing fun patterns, she discusses ... - shading - finding and copying new designs - ways to track your designs - journaling - ways to develop new ideas for patterns - how to use drawing to clear your thoughts and track your to do's - how to transfer your Zentagles onto other surfaces with useful tips - printing your design multiple times - using alternate materials - drawing on rocks instead of paper Extra items in the book that I appreciated is an index to find an example of that design and even more, explicitly mentioning what product or tool she used to achieve the shown Zentangle with URLs to the products. Very helpful if I wanted to achieve the same look. I'd recommend the book to long-arm quilters and doodlers who want to up their game.With a name like "Yoga for Your Brain" I expected it to be some sort of guided meditation and brain workouts - more of mental mind games, or visualizations. Well, it's pretty visual, but it's more active than I expected. The book takes you through making "Zentangles " which are quite neat works of art. The author's, obviously, look wonderful and are mesmerizing. Mine? Not so much. I have a good eye for art, but terrible hands for creating it. But that's not the point - the point is the process. If you like the idea of meditation for relaxation but are unable to really clear your mind of external thoughts, try this book. By thinking about the art you're creating, you really do lose sight of other stresses. If you already do meditation but want to try something new, or you love creating art and want to get into meditation, this book is perfect for you too.

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Book SynopsisSecret Garden: An Inky Treasure Hunt and Colouring Bookby Johanna Basford is one of the world's bestselling adult colouring books with 96 colouring pages waiting to be brought to life with colour.This interactive colouring book takes you on a ramble through a garden created in beautifully detailed pen–and–ink illustrations by Johanna Basford.There are pictures to colour, mazes to solve, patterns to complete and lots of space for you to add your own inky drawings. Use felt tip pens to add a splash of colour or a black pen with a fine nib to create your own doodles and details.Johanna Basford has sold over 21 million books worldwide. Secret Garden: An Inky Treasure Hunt and Colouring Book was her first book. It has been translated into over 44 languages.'Colouring in isn't just for kids. These intricate, magical drawings from Secret Garden by Johanna Basford are just waiting to be brought to life.' The Guardian'Joanna Basford's Secret Garden is an 'inky treasure hunt and colouring book' filled with intricate drawings waiting to be brought to life. It's the colouring–in book you wish you had the hand–eye coordination to do, aged two.' The Independent'Prepare yourself to get lost in a magical world with this interactive activity book that takes you through a secret garden of incredible drawings by Johanna Basford.' Buzzfeed'Coloring books for adults have been around for decades, but Basford's success…has helped to create a massive new industry category.' The New YorkerAlso available by Johanna Basford from Laurence King Publishing:Enchanted Forest: An Inky Quest and Colouring Book (9781780674872)Secret Garden: Journal (9781856699853)Secret Garden:12 Notecards (9781856699471)Enchanted Forest: Artist’s Edition (9781780677842)Enchanted Forest: Journal (9781780679181)Enchanted Forest: 12 Notecards (9781780677835)Trade Review"There's a reason why Basford is so successful. Her designs are truly compelling, engrossing and are so universally appealing we'd go as far as to say they're addictive." -- - The Independent

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Book SynopsisLois van Baarle is a freelance animator/illustrator from the Netherlands who graduated in 2009 from the Hogeschool voor de Kunsten Utrecht. Since then, her work has become very popular across the internet, with her Facebook followers closing in on one million and her Twitter account watched by over nineteen thousand eager eyes. The Art of Loish is her first "art of" book, and will examine her inspirations while showcasing some of her early work. Following this, the reader will learn how she developed her very distinctive style and discover advice as she discusses her working methods, offering tips on a variety of techniques that she utilizes in her art every day! The additional exclusive content of this book makes it a must-have for any lover of Loish's work!

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

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Book SynopsisJump into the adorable kawaii kingdom with more than 70 pages of activities & coloring and 100+ sweet stickers.   If you love cute and cuddly things, you probably already know about kawaii—the Japanese concept that can be translated as “cute” or “lovable”—and that Totally Kawaii Sticker & Activity Book is right up your alley. If you are new to kawaii, then this supercute book is the perfect place to begin your journey. Coloring is an enjoyable activity for people of all ages, and no artistic training is necessary to bring the charming characters of Totally Kawaii Sticker & Activity Book to life. And with so many delightful designs to choose from, there is sure to be something for everyone in the family. The stickers and line-drawn coloring designs include kawaii-style illustrations of:   Lovable Kittens Cute Clouds Sweet Des

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

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Book SynopsisOriginally developed in the 18th century as a visual supplement to botanical nomenclature, botanical illustration and art uniquely fuse art and science by documenting the parts, details, and life cycles of plant species. In Drawing and Painting Botanicals for Artists, eminent botanical artist and veteran workshop instructor Karen Kluglein reveals her secrets for rendering leaves, flowers, berries, and branches both accurately and beautifully. The book begins with a brief history of the art form, followed by guidance on developing observational skills for this genre, key botanical terms and concepts, and the differences among botanical illustration, botanical art, and flower painting. The chapters that follow offer detailed guidance and demonstrations for drawing and painting botanicals in a variety of mediums: Drawing. Explore loose gestural drawing, precise measuring and rendering, and working from photographs with graphite, colored pencil, finepoint markers, pen and ink, and silverpoint. Painting. Master color mixing, washes, layering, gradations, values, and adding details in watercolor, gouache, and acrylic, plus guidance on adding “personality” to your work and knowing when a painting is done. Drawing and Painting Botanicals for Artists shows artists at all skill levels how to translate careful observations into stunning works of art. The For Artists series expertly guides and instructs artists at all skill levels who want to develop their classical drawing and painting skills and create realistic and representational art. Table of Contents1 Drawing BotanicalsMEDIUMS AND SUPPLIES Graphite Pencils Colored Pencils Fine Point Markers Silverpoint Paper Erasers Pencil SharpenersESSENTIAL DRAWING TECHNIQUES Live Specimen Working from Photographs Loose Gestural Drawing Precise Measuring Values, Shadows, and Highlights Gradations Lifting GraphiteDRAWING SUBJECTS AND MEDIUMS Drawing Leaves Drawing Flowers and Petals Drawing Fruits and Berries Drawing Stems and Branches 2 Painting BotanicalsMEDIUMS AND SUPPLIES Watercolors Gouache Paintbrushes Painting SurfacesESSENTIAL PAINTING TECHNIQUES Color Mapping Washes Layering Gradations Drybrush in Watercolor Lifting Overlaps Correcting Mistakes and Making Revisions Details and Finishing Adding PersonalityPAINTING SUBJECTS Painting Leaves Painting Flowers and Petals Painting Fruits and Berries Painting Stems and Branches Final Thoughts Resources Acknowledgments About the Author Index

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Book SynopsisBe inspired by this fun compilation sketchbook of four favorite volumes from Quarry Books' 20 Ways series!Designed to offer artists, designers, and doodlers a fun and sophisticated collection of illustration fun, each spread features 20 inspiring illustrated examples of 135 themes, over 3600 drawings total! From trees and flowers to animals and sea creatures and everything in between. Don't worry, there's tons of room for you to draw your own versions of these amazing doodles right on the pages.This is not a step-by-step technique book - within the pages you'll find drawings simplified, modernized, and reduced to the most basic elements, showing you how simple abstract shapes and forms create the building blocks of any item that you want to draw. Each of the 20 interpretations provides a different, interesting approach to drawing a single item, providing loads of inspiration for your own drawing. These four artists each have a uniquely creative style, resulting in an engaging and motivational practice book that provides a new take on the world of sketching, doodling, and designing.

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Book SynopsisSketches and drawings are the foundations of great art, where thoughts and concepts first come to life as an image. In Sketching from the Imagination: Characters, fifty talented artists share their sketches, inspirations, and approaches to creating characters. This book is a visually stunning collection packed with useful tips and creative insights--an invaluable resource that will inspire artists of all abilities.

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Book SynopsisWith helpful tips and easy to follow step-by-step lessons, The Complete Beginner's Guide to Drawing is the perfect resource for artists looking to hone their drawing style and technique.The Complete Beginner's Guide to Drawing is a comprehensive guide to drawing a vast array of subjects, from landscapes and flowers to animals and portraits. This helpful resource begins with a thorough introduction to the essential tools and materials artists need to get started, including different types of pencils, sketchbooks, papers, and other tools. Additionally, artists will learn the fundamentals of drawing, as well as a variety of drawing techniques, including rendering realistic textures, creating volume, and capturing perspective. The Complete Beginner's Guide to Drawing guides beginning and intermediate artists through a series of easy-to-follow, step-by-step projects covering a variety of subject matter. With helpful tips and beautiful artwork to inspire, The Complete Beginner's Guide to Drawing is the perfect resource for artists looking to hone their drawing style and technique.

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Book SynopsisIn this visually stunning hardback, globally loved artist Lois van Baarle, AKA Loish, explores the origins, influences, and features of her style, and helps readers do the same deep dive into their own style.It is her third book with 3dtotal Publishing, a natural progression from the bestselling The Art of Loish (2016) and The Sketch Book of Loish (2018) which to date have sold over 85,000 copies combined. The Style of Loish now sees the artist explore her own style through several facets of her work, including creating volume, choosing color, establishing flow, and the ideas and subjects themselves. While looking at the motivation behind her own work, Loish also guides the reader through ideas and tutorials to help them identify, understand, and even evolve their own style. The book bursts with brand new, specially commissioned art that provides a unique opportunity to understand the foundations of Loish’s style. She reveals the journey she took to pinpoint when and how her style was created. Combined with candid advice and a passion for supporting fellow artists, the book is beautiful, inspirational, and practical for artists of all styles and abilities.

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Book SynopsisImprove your bullet journals, to-do lists, class notes, and everything in between with The Art of Visual Notetaking and its unique approach to taking notes in the twenty-first century. Visual notetaking is the perfect skill for journaling, class lectures, conferences, and any other time that retaining information is key. Also referred to as sketchnoting, visual notetaking is ideal for documenting processes, planning projects, outlining ideas, and capturing information. And as you'll learn in The Art of Visual Notetaking, this approach doesn't require advanced drawing or hand-lettering skills; anyone can learn how to use simple lines, connectors, shapes, and text to take dynamic notes. In The Art of Visual Notetaking, aspiring sketchnoters and journalers will find helpful "Getting Started" pages of icons and badges for common note-taking purposes, with tips and encouragement for creating you own unique icons. You'll go on to discover instruction and how-to techniques, tips, and tutorials that focus on visual notetaking for different settings, from a business meeting, workshop, or convention, to a college lecture or sermon. Expert instruction from a professional sketchnote artist and educator demonstrates how to visually arrange and compile ideas, focal points, and key concepts.

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Book SynopsisA ‘How to’ book featuring painting techniques used by Dutch Renaissance Masters such as Rembrandt and Rubens, Bruegel and Bosch. This beautifully illustrated book for practising artists and art students examines everything there is to know about the techniques used by the Dutch Masters of the Golden Age. From the preparation of surfaces and the creation of paints and pigments to the methods used, award-winning artist Brigid Marlin considers how these skills can work in modern settings and includes stunning representations of contemporary artists’ work. Discover the techniques and materials used by Rembrandt in his portraits, how to achieve balance and tension, rhythm and points of interest in the style of Bruegel and Rubens, and how to recreate luminous still-life paintings like those of the Van Eyck brothers. Projects include clear, step-by-step demonstrations to replicate these almost-forgotten techniques as well as examples of works which they inspired.Table of ContentsForeword 1. Portrait painting – using Rembrandt’s techniques 2. Landscape painting – learning from Bruegel, van Ruisdael and Rubens 3. Still-Life painting – using techniques developed by the van Eyck brothers 4. Art of imagination – the influence of Hieronymous Bosch 5. Ernst Fuchs - and the rediscovery of these ancient techniques 6. Fellowship and friendship – how other artists are using these techniques today 7. Materials and methods Glossary Index

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Book SynopsisWith Drawing: Flowers, learn to create detailed, realistic flowers in graphite pencil from basic shapes. It’s no wonder we’re naturally attracted to flowers. Their fascinating and varied forms, colors, and textures provide a never-ending source of artistic inspiration. This book shows the step-by-step process of rendering various types of flowers—from their basic shapes to their completed forms. It begins with tools and materials needed to get started, as well as the shading techniques that bring flower drawings to life. Among the flowers you'll learn to draw: Tulips Regal Lily Daffodil Carnation Poppy Pansy Hibiscus Fuchsia Peony Foxglove Chrysanthemums Bearded Iris And more! In this large-format, 40-page reference guide, William F. Powell teaches you how to render a variety of beautiful flowers in graphite pencil, with tips on choosing materials, building with basic shapes, and shading to develop form and realism. With a wealth of detailed step-by-step projects to both re-create and admire, Drawing: Flowers shows artists how to develop a flower drawing to its fullest. 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. Drawing: Flowers 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 SynopsisColoring books for grownups are this year's biggest new trend in publishing. Notebook Doodles is the FIRST coloring series aimed directly at TWEENS. The adult market is hot and now YA buyers are looking for product. This series fills a hole that is not being served. The author is an established popular designer who knows this market and has an original, authentic style. There is no other series like this. Priced to FLY at $7.99!

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Book SynopsisExplore the latest and coolest tangle techniques in Zentangle 12! Inside you'll discover 30 original new tangle designs and a host of innovative ways to expand your black-and-white horizons. Start by creating unforgettable artworks with the exciting dark-light Japanese design concept of Notan. Add to your tangling repertoire with punched shapes, torn paper, stencils, inkblots, clayboard, straw blowing, and more. Then practice all the fun new methods you've learned in a bonus 16-page workbook. The Zentangle method calms the mind, helps reduce stress, and improves focus. This relaxing process turns drawing simple patterns into artistic design. Learn to create fascinating tangles with this relaxing and rewarding art form for all ages, and enjoy the experience that tangling brings.

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Book SynopsisEvery artist strives to achieve the kind of painting that commands attention from across the room and delights the eye up close. In this book, artist and workshop teacher Patti Mollica walks you through surprisingly simple and efficient strategies for achieving that kind of powerful composition, whatever your subject.

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Book SynopsisThese beautifully detailed full-page images form a gorgeous gallery of 46 common and exotic butterflies. Follow the numbered guide to create accurate portraits of the giant swallowtail, ruddy daggerwing, luna moth, white admiral, and other species. Illustrations are printed on one side of the perforated pages for easy removal and display. Specially designed for experienced colorists, Butterflies Color by Number and other Creative Haven coloring books offer an escape to a world of inspiration and artistic fulfillment.

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