Customer Reviews (12)

Painting Nature in Watercolor
This book provided step by step progessions and explanations that were easy to follow.Great for beginner or intermediate painter.

Watercolor painting
Great book for learing to paint.Good examples and explanations for techniques.I recommend it.

Watercolor Painting for the Beginning Artist
By profession I am a scientist, but I have always had an interest in the visual arts.Only in the last few years have I had much time to devote to such endeavors and even then it has been rather catch as catch can.My main interest in art is in the capture of natural images (I took scientific illustration in college), but I appreciate the fact that art and stark realism may express somewhat different truths about the subject.As a rank amateur in watercolor art I also appreciate deeply such roadmap-like guide books as Ferdinand Petrie's "The Big Book of Painting Nature in Watercolor."At first the title turned me off, but in perusing a copy (and later acquiring it) I found it to be an excellent guide to capturing the essence of a natural scene in one of the most difficult of all media- watercolor (only pen and ink may be more demanding from my experience!)

The coupling of Petrie's step by step paintings and the exquisite photographs of John Shaw has produced a book that is both visually beautiful and informative.Using the techniques described and with one's own reference photos in hand (or under an open sky direct from nature) a novice painter can slowly gain the knowledge and skill necessary to succeed in producing credible paintings.

A while back a scientist colleague of mine asked me why make a painting or drawing when you can photograph any subject with clarity.As a person who takes my own reference photos and enjoys doing so I can say he has a point, but reality does not necessarily come only from an exact replication of a scene.In the process of painting from nature (or from a reference photograph) you often notice more complex details, even in apparently simple subjects, then you would ordinarily notice in a photograph by itself.Petrie has emphasized the observation of these complex details and their interpretation in watercolor.If nothing else the instructions that point the artist toward this close observation of complexity in nature are worth the price of the book.

Good variety and information for various angles
This book is one to read through to learn -- not just do the practice paintings. Being a newbie to watercolor, this book has really helped me to view nature through a different set of eyes. He helps you see the "what do I want this picture to focus on" instead of microdetailing every possible detail in view. I am now finding myself looking at nature figuring out the details and what would I want to paint as the focus. I think this book goes very well with Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Watercolor by Marian Appellof -- good pair with minimal redundancy.

Numerous step-by-step watercolor techniques
As a beginning artist, I tend to accumulate technique books."The Big Book of Painting Nature in Watercolor" has been one of my most useful watercolor books.It is, in fact, the book that my watercolor instructor uses for reference material for her students.

The book covers a wide variety of techniques, each in the context of a short, complete, step-by-step project which results in a good-looking painting (I occasionally frame one).Techniques covered include seeing colors, mixing, washes, underpaintings, tilting paper, dry brush, use of wet vs. damp vs. dry paper, various uses and methods for lifting, reflections, lighting, contrast, and many, many more techniques, settings, and approaches to challenging scenes.I learn something different from each project.

One implicitly learns the art of simplification and watercolor expression by comparing each projects' nature scene photograph with its respective final painting.That mindset, plus the book's setting-specific techniques, carries over to painting similar scenes outside of the book.It is important to supplement the cookbook nature of the book by applying the same techniques to one's own photo references, and to painting live in nature. ... Read more

Amazon.com
In 1992 a young art student uncovered a clue in an obscure Italian archive that led to the discovery of Caravaggio's original The Taking of the Christ, a painting that had been presumed lost for over 200 years. How this clue--a single entry in an old listing of family possessions--led to a residence in Ireland and the subsequent restoration of this Italian Baroque masterpiece is the subject of this brisk and enthralling detective story. The Lost Painting reads more like a historical novel than art history, as Harr smoothly weaves several narratives together to bring the story alive. Though he does not provide an in-depth examination of the painting itself--the book is not aimed specifically at art experts--Harr does include many details for lay readers about restoration, the various methods used to track artwork through history, how originals are distinguished from copies, and an inside view of the art world, past and present. He also discusses various forensic approaches, including X ray, infrared reflectography, chemical analysis of the paints and canvas, and other modern techniques. But most of the book is focused on more primitive methods, including dogged research through dusty archives and meticulous attention to detail.

This entertaining book boasts an engaging cast of characters, all of whom are inflicted with the "Caravaggio disease," including some of the foremost Caravaggio scholars in the world, persistent students, obsessive restorers, and most of all, the artist himself. Mercurial, supremely gifted, and prone to violence, Caravaggio lived like an outlaw and a pauper most of his troubled life. Yet even when he attained wealth and fame--and briefly, respectability--he was still hounded by the law (for murder) and numerous vengeful enemies. Harr does an admirable job of bringing the man alive in these pages while keeping his long-lost painting at the center of the action.--Shawn CarkonenBook Description
An Italian village on a hilltop near the Adriatic coast, a decaying palazzo facing the sea, and in the basement, cobwebbed and dusty, lit by a single bulb, an archive unknown to scholars. Here, a young graduate student from Rome, Francesca Cappelletti, makes a discovery that inspires a search for a work of art of incalculable value, a painting lost for almost two centuries.

The artist was Caravaggio, a master of the Italian Baroque. He was a genius, a revolutionary painter, and a man beset by personal demons. Four hundred years ago, he drank and brawled in the taverns and streets of Rome, moving from one rooming house to another, constantly in and out of jail, all the while painting works of transcendent emotional and visual power. He rose from obscurity to fame and wealth, but success didn’t alter his violent temperament. His rage finally led him to commit murder, forcing him to flee Rome a hunted man. He died young, alone, and under strange circumstances.

Caravaggio scholars estimate that between sixty and eighty of his works are in existence today. Many others–no one knows the precise number–have been lost to time. Somewhere, surely, a masterpiece lies forgotten in a storeroom, or in a small parish church, or hanging above a fireplace, mistaken for a mere copy.

Prizewinning author Jonathan Harr embarks on an spellbinding journey to discover the long-lost painting known as The Taking of Christ–its mysterious fate and the circumstances of its disappearance have captivated Caravaggio devotees for years. After Francesca Cappelletti stumbles across a clue in that dusty archive, she tracks the painting across a continent and hundreds of years of history. But it is not until she meets Sergio Benedetti, an art restorer working in Ireland, that she finally manages to assemble all the pieces of the puzzle.

Told with consummate skill by the writer of the bestselling, award-winning A Civil Action, The Lost Painting is a remarkable synthesis of history and detective story. The fascinating details of Caravaggio’s strange, turbulent career and the astonishing beauty of his work come to life in these pages. Harr’s account is not unlike a Caravaggio painting: vivid, deftly wrought, and enthralling.
". . . Jonathan Harr has gone to the trouble of writing what will probably be a bestseller . . . rich and wonderful. . .in truth, the book reads better than a thriller because, unlike a lot of best-selling nonfiction authors who write in a more or less novelistic vein (Harr's previous book, A Civil Action, was made into a John Travolta movie), Harr doesn't plump up hi tale. He almost never foreshadows, doesn't implausibly reconstruct entire conversations and rarely throws in litanies of clearly conjectured or imagined details just for color's sake. . .if you're a sucker for Rome, and for dusk. . .[you'll] enjoy Harr's more clearly reported details about life in the city, as when--one of my favorite moments in the whole book--Francesca and another young colleague try to calm their nerves before a crucial meeting with a forbidding professor by eating gelato. And who wouldn't in Italy? The pleasures of travelogue here are incidental but not inconsiderable." --The New York Times Book Review


"Jonathan Harr has taken the story of the lost painting, and woven from it a deeply moving narrative about history, art and taste--and about the greed, envy, covetousness and professional jealousy of people who fall prey to obsession. It is as perfect a work of narrative nonfiction as you could ever hope to read." --The Economist ... Read more

Customer Reviews (86)

I loved it (and so did five of my friends)!
The Lost Painting: The Quest for a Caravaggio Masterpiece
For anyone who loves art, especially Caravaggio, mysteries, and Ireland, this is a must read. Couldn't put it down. It is especially interesting how the search for the painting is attacked from two ends: the researchers who are looking for the painting and the owners who don't know what they have. If, after having read the book, you don't book the first plane to Dublin and drop into the National Gallery of Art just to see the painting, you are really missing a treat.

Intriguing Art Mystery
As an earlier reviewer noted, many scholars acknowledge that there probably are several missing Caravaggio masterpieces lying about forgotten and neglected.

And, indeed, just as I began reading this book, a November 2006 news report announced that a painting owned by Queen Elizabeth II had been revealed to be a lost work by the Italian master Caravaggio.

The picture, which has been in the Royal Family's possession for about 400 years, had been dismissed as a copy, being obscured by varnish and dirt. It had been left in a storeroom at Hampton Court for decades until experts from the Royal Collection set about restoring the piece. After they spent six years studying the painting, they announced that is "The Calling Of Saints Peter and Andrew", a genuine Caravaggio and one of only 50 surviving canvases by the 17th century artist.

Reports estimated the painting, which was first bought by Charles I, sold and then reacquired by Charles II, could be worth more than £50 million --$100 million at current exchange rates!

Reads like a mystery.
I wasn't sure if this was fact or fiction. It reads like a mystery story. It grabs you, and keeps you intrigued throughout. It's a kick to learn that it's all true! Great read!

interesting and mysterious
I love historical fiction and this book was just marvelous.Mr. Harr does an excellent job of describing the landscapes of Italy and Great Britain, plus he seemelessly weaves art history instruction into the story.A must read for art fans!

Should have been good, but it wasn't.
This was a disappointment. The hunt for a lost Caravaggio, the digging about in archives, the scientific test to see "is it really?", should be fascinating. But it's not. And I cannot stand non-fiction writers who think they have to make their books read like fiction. Where is the critical analysis? Where is the index? Where are the footnotes? Non-fiction needs references. You cannot expect me to believe what you are writing unless you tell me where you got the information. A bibliography and acknowledgements don't cut it.

I'm seeing this more and more in non-fiction and it drives me right up the wall.

And who the heck had the idea of publishing a book about a Caravaggio painting with NO, I repeat NO, illustrations? ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

A really great book
There's a lot of 'how to paint animals' books out there, but after looking through a bunch of them, this one rates at the top for me so far. The author is really generous with his knowledge and shares his whole process very clearly from start to finish.Comprehensive and helpful and page after page of great tips, insights and examples.
For someone this good to be willing to commit it all to paper like this, - this book is a real find.Even new painters not really interested in painting animals would benefit from this one. This book is a real keeper.

BLOWN AWAY
I CAN ONLY ASPIRE TO HAVE A SMIDGEON OF THE TALENT DISPLAYED IN THIS BOOK.

Wildlife artist
I found this book good for painting backgrounds for wild animals and settings to place the wildlife in, something I have not always found easy.
It also gives examples of different lighting effects which I found useful.
It covers all types of mediums.

Great Talent!
After reviewing several books on painting animals, I chose this book. The artist provides in depth advice. The book also explains how to prepare masonite board to paint on. I've never done this, but I want to try it. This is a great book that is easily understood.

If you buy one book on wildlife and animal painting in oils, this book should be your first choice!
I have been an professional artist for over 30 years, and I recently purchased about 7 books on painting animals to improve my skills.
This book by far, no comparison, is the best. The information
and painting demos and examples are easy to understand and follow, and would help any artist no matter what level they areat.

His paintings along with those of other artists included are
top quality, offering a feast for the heart and eyes to any
artist.
Edward Aldrich gives you some of the best painting step by step
information, not leaving you asking questions, like some books.
He tells you exactly how he paints to get the warm and glowing
results to create his beautiful wildlife paintings.
Plus tons of other great painting information.
This is the best money I have spent on a book on painting.
If you like his paintings you will love this book.
Thank you Edward for really giving of yourself, sharing your art, and knowhow, and choosing great examples of other professionals.
I have learned so much, your book is a gem! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

The definitive silk painting book
You name it she tells you how to do it. For beginner & Intermediate silk painters. Educational, Informative and well formatted. My only suggestion is a ring binding so the book could lay flat when it is being used for refeence.

Silk Painting:The Artist's Guide to Gutta and Wax Resist Techniques
An excellent, comprehensive guide for the beginning silk painter.The author demonstrates many inspirational designs and recommends her preferences for dyes (by brand), gutta, and other resist options.I've not painted on silk before and, after reading this book, I feel I have all the knowledge I need to begin painting on silk.

Fantastic resource
I love this book! I think the blend of historical content and variety of techniques described make this the perfect book in your resource library!

Good Inspiration
This book has great, inspirational photos and very good instructions.My main disappointment with it is the authors attitude toward silk paints (i.e., not dyes).I have used several varieties of the paints that are made to mimic dyes and find them to work very well, leave the silk soft and be very easy to use.They are a great way for a beginner to get started and try most of the same techniques used with dyes without the hassle of steaming or the toxicity.I am glad that I had some experience silk painting before I got this book because her attitude would have discouraged me from every trying.Aside from that - it's an excellent book, worth the price and full of great pictures to inspire you.

ONE STOP SILK PAINTING BOOK - INSPIRIATIONAL
This is THE best book I have read on silk painting and I have't seen another to better it in the past 10 years.There ARE other books on the same subject that are good, but I certainly haven't felt the need to purchase another since I thumbed through this beauty!

Everything you could possibly want to know in relation to silk painting is covered in a consise and presise manner.This is supported by photo demostrations for various techniques not easily explained through the written word. The authors pratical experience shines through in the text and fablously gorgeous photos of her and other artists work.

The book is full colour with lots and lots of sensational photos.Much of the silk painting shown is very detailed work eg flowers, pictures; rather than overall "textures" or designs which is more often what you find in other books on the same subject.

Seriously consider this fantastic book if you are interested in this subject, it is worth every $, if only for the inspiration provided by the fablous photos ... Read more

Book Description
The acrylics of today have grown into the most adaptable art material of the modern age. Focusing on a popular art medium that has been around for over 50 years, The New Acrylics illustrates how artists can create lush textures, color, and luster with the modern acrylics readily available in any art supply store. These are nontoxic, environmentally sound, and exist in the most dazzling array of chemical formats-from the most fluid to the highly viscous. Not only do artists paint with acrylics these days, they can create rich metallic effects, or even 3-dimensional sculptures.Traditional technique based books on acrylics cover traditional methods of painting. However, The New Acrylics is geared toward more nonconventional ways in which to manipulate modern-day acrylics, and demonstrates new applications such as glazing, textured effects, soft sculpture effects, or staining, thus reinventing the old way of handling acrylics, and revealing a fabulous new artistic medium.The underlying theme of this dazzling and sophisticated book is to encourage artists to interpret and handle acrylic paints in a vibrant, fresh, and above all, individualistic style. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

Comprehensive
This is comprehensive - and beautiful to look at. The best acrylics book I have found. I also have "Acrylic Revolution", (also fabulous). But this book has the edge in as much as it is not focused on a particular brand of acrylics. That said I would recommend owning both!

Too technical
I borrowed this book at library thinking it would tell me how to mix my acrylic colors, how to do underpainting, etc. However it is totally a technical book on how acrylic paints are made and such, not useful to a person wanting to just learn to paint pictures! I also tried the book "Acrylic Revolution" which was interesting if I wanted dozens of different ways to use acrylics other than painting a picture--returned that book. Still looking, am open to suggestions.

Acrylic Revolution: New Tricks and Techniques for working in acrylics
I loved this book, read it from cover to cover and just couldn't wait to try some of the techniques

The New Acrylics
A very complete description of a very large variety of what the artist may do with acrylics. Well written and illustrated.

The new acrylics
Just what I was looking for.Something to help me with how to work with acrylics and get the results I want. ... Read more

Book Description

As much art book as guide, The Photoshop and Painter Artist Tablet Book: Creative Techniques in Digital Paintinguses traditional drawing and painting theory exercises, coupled withreal-life projects, to show readers how they can use Painter andPhotoshop with pressure-sensitive tablets to draw and paint with acomputer. Award-winning artist and author Cher Threinen-Pendarvisshares her own drawings and paintings with the readers, sharing hercreative thought processes and composition design secrets that she usesin her own work. In this gorgeous, large format, full-color book, Chertakes readers step-by-step through a variety of projects designed toimprove their drawing, composition, and conceptual thought processeswhile exploring different uses of the many brushes available in Painterand Photoshop. Along the way, Cher shows readers how to set up apressure-sensitive tablet and stylus; use mark-making tools inPhotoshop and Painter; create tonal, gestural, and contour drawingswith a pressure-sensitive tablet and stylus; incorporate scannedartwork into digital paintings; use photos as a reference for theillustrations; make creative use of color and ideas for compositiondesign; translate traditional color theory to digital color tools;simulate canvas and paper; create mixed media; and more. All theconcepts, processes, and projects in this book can be applied toreaders' own drawings and paintings, and the lessons and examplesdemonstrated in this book are designed to work with the most currentversions of Painter and Photoshop, as well as most earlier versions ofthe software. In addition, readers will find brushes, textures, imagesand other goodies on the book’s companion Web site that they can use asthey work through the projects in the book.

Customer Reviews (33)

Not for the serious artist
This book has mediocre instruction, and the example art is very very bad. I was very let down by the poor quality of both the instruction and sample art. I would say that both are not quite high school level, so I would not recommend this book to any even semi-serious artist over the age of 15 or so. The only difference between this book and a middle school level art textbook is that this book also covers very, VERY basic software information you can easily learn from many free sources or through a few hours of tinkering.It would probably be a good gift for a kid or perhaps someone who is undertaking digital art as a very casual hobby. If you are more serious than that about learning digital painting, I would recommend Don Seegmiller's book instead.

Photoshop and Painter Artist Tablet
The Photoshop and Painter Artist Tablet Book:Creative Techniques in Digital Painting

While I was not overly impressed with the art illustrations in this book I am very impressed with instruction.It explains the A-Z's of setting up your computer for Digital Artwork for both original art and photos.This includes setting up your pallates, naming/saving files, backup, etc.
Would recommend for newbies and experienced alike.

Painters Book
This book is a great guide to using the painters tablet with photoshop software.Very good reference.

A good book if you know Painter already
This is a small book that I bought in a bundle with my Wacom Tablet. The book is pretty good about showing you how to paint in Corel Painter and Adobe Photoshop, but you need to already know the software. There is no real "introduction" to the software. The book just assumes that you already know how to choose brushes and such, and takes you right into the painting methods. I like the book, but I don't recommend it to anyone who doesn't already know a bit about Corel Painter or Photoshop.

High Recommendation from a Digital Artist
One of the most valuable things about, "The Photoshop and Painter Artist Tablet Book" is that Cher gives us a variety of projects we can do that will help us master digital painting.

Not only are we guided through how to use a graphics tablet and stylus in combination with Photoshop and Painter software; but through some of the basics of drawing and composition, as well. Plus, each project is accompanied by step-by-step examples that are refreshingly original and clear.

So, whether someone is new to the medium or has a decade of experience with digital painting like I do, Cher provides projects we can all learn from. Because of that, this book is a welcomed addition to my creative library and one that I highly recommend. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (6)

Almost perfect
I'm new to painting and to acrylics.I've bought lots of books on the subject and this is one of the best.It has a very thorough review of materials and then goes thru each acrylic technique in some detail (thin washes, opaque, textured).

My only reason for giving it 4 stars instead of 5 is that too many of the pictures are in black and white which seems ridiculous for a book about painting.

But the quality of the contents more than make up for that one shortcoming.A great book to learn more about painting with acrylics.

I'd suggest also buying a book with technique demonstrations... I have bought several but am still searching for the perfect book.

The best one
I've bought several books on this argument and i thinkthis one is the best one. It starts from ABC and is rich of usefull tips. It's technical enough to tell you why things happens but not enough to be boring. I love this book. Just a remarque for the next edition: too many pictures are black and white.

The oil Painting Book
I ordered this book used,But It came to me looking like a brand new book.I saved about 50% on the cost and am very happy with the book.Real quality.

Excellent Introduction Guide
This book has wonderful photos and plenty of information.I learned new techniques and I've been oil & water painting for 30 years !I think it's great for anyone beginning in acrylics.

Acrylic Painting : A Complete Guide
Excellent publication providing advice and inspiration for the beginer as well as the more experienced painter ... Read more

Book Description
Painting lovely home accents is easy with Donna Dewberry! Her popular, proven one-stroke technique—which lets you color, shade and highlight all in a single brushstroke—is a cinch to learn, even if you've never picked up a brush before. You'll soon find yourself adorning everything from crystal stemware to mailboxes to the walls of your home with beautifully hand-painted flowers, fruits, leaves and other charming touches!

Bigger and more thorough than any other how-to book on the topic, this must-have resource for all things one-stroke contains:

• Over 200 color photos clearly illustrating every detail of the one-stroke technique, plus tips on transferring patterns and lettering • 12 all new step-by-step projects for painting tiles and glassware, floorcloths, cabinets, door knobs, drawer pulls, and much more • 5 brand new painting techniques that take you beyond one-stroke • Donna's foolproof advice for creating your own attractive designs

Join the thousands who have discovered this famously simple, versatile painting technique—and enjoy rewarding results you'll be proud to show your friends and family! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

The Voice of Inexperience
I have no natural artistic talent and no art experience, so I thought this book which promises "quick and easy techniques" would be perfect for me.However, I've been practicing Donna Dewberry's techniques for two months and still can't perfect the brush strokes.My opinion is that the words "quick and easy" are false advertising and should be removed by the publisher.

Donna Deewberry's Complete Book of One-Stroke Painting
Excellent book.Would recommend to anyone interested in acrylics.

I can finally paint!
I always wanted to be an artist, and with Donna's easy-to-follow techniques, I can now paint!Before, I drew rotten stick figures, but Donna had me painting like a pro in nothing flat!I have given items away as gifts, and have had requests for items!I've been concentrating on clay flower pots, but I now feel ready to branch out to bigger and better things!Thanks Donna!

Buy It! You'll thank me later! :)
One Stroke Painting is the way to go! This book is a must have!
If you ever wanted to learn to paint, here is your chance.

Beginners - you too, will produce results in no time. The instructions and illustrations are straightfoward and easy to understand. I did a rose and rosebuds on a french bucket. No one would believe I did it freehand (no pattern). I had never painted a day in my life, before buying this book.

Experienced - expand your repetoire!

Easy to follow
Great for beginners. I'm already on my fourth project and each one gets better. ... Read more

Book Description
"Versatility, immediacy, luminosity, brilliance, ease ofuse--all these are attributes of working in pastel, but probably the mostimportant of all is that it's just a lot of fun!"
--Maggie Price

Come enjoy the art of pastel painting with beloved workshop instructorMaggie Price. In this step-by-step guide, she teaches you everything youneed to know to make the most of this accessible art form. From selectingthe right materials to learning the fundamentals of composition, Maggiestarts with the basics and progresses to 21 complete pastel demonstrationsthat detail specific painting techniques and effects. You'll learn howto:

• Create depth and movement with color
• Paint using a range of strokes
• Blend colors to create luminous skies, reflections and more
• Underpaint to achieve brilliant light and deep shadows
• Mix pastels with watercolor and gouache to create fluid effects
• Create new compositions from photographs

With its blend of visual instruction, thorough guidance and breathtakingartwork, this is the only guide you need to experience the joy andsatisfaction of painting with pastels. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Pastel painting pleasures
Maggie's book covers many of the techniques for which this veteran artist is famous.The section on painting with light alone, makes this book an invaluable addition to any artist's library.Herwriting style is clear and accesible whidh makes following along with the lessons simple.The examples of works in progress that Maggie provides walk you through each exercise effortlessly.
If I were attempting to paint in pastels for the first time - or, if like me, you would like to kick your pastel painting up a notch,BUY THIS BOOK.You will be delighted!

Impressive book!
I'm just getting started with pastels and fell in love with this medium. Prior to this I have done oils for years, and teach in other mediums as well. I buy reference books all the time in the areas that interest me. PAINTING WITH PASTELS by Maggie Price is the best of those I have purchased. It seemed to be written just for me! It is VERY informative; the examples are marvelous! Landscapes are my favorites and there is a strong unit on them. I have a student who likes to do portraits and there is good advice for this too. However, if you are looking for guidance on painting animals there isn't any. But the important things like values, composition, focal points, lots of stuff on colors including layering colors, and much more is in this book. Thank you, Maggie Price! ... Read more

Book Description
From the team behind Chronicle Books' best-selling art reference book Artist's Manual comes the ultimate painting compendium, Art Class. The perfect complement to its predecessor, Art Class is filled with page after page of beautiful paintings and expert teaching. It is packed with ideas and inspirations, tools and techniques, photos and illustrations, as well as detailed instructions on working with media ranging from watercolor to acrylic to oil. With an entire section devoted to step-by-step demonstrations by renowned artists--where they reveal their personal secrets, tips, and methods--Art Class is like having an instructor guiding each and every brush stroke. Learn how to paint an eye or a portrait, a tree or an entire landscape, by following the many artist-led descriptions and full-page color spreads that illustrate the most basic to the most advanced painting techniques. Whether they work in gouache or watercolor, oil or pastel, aspiring or seasoned artists will find that Art Class offers everything they need to create successful paintings. With 500 color photographs and featured works of art, a visual glossary of the language and mechanics behind painting, and an extensive resource listing, Art Class is the definitive studio companion for every painter. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Not really an Art Class -- At best: Good for a High School Art Teacher reference book
Okay book.If you're a beginner you may like it, but it lacks so much that is essential for the beginner.Being an art teacher, the flow of the book really makes sense.It works you from still life all the way up to portraiture.You do however need to know how to draw prior to purchasing this book and start painting.It does not provide you w/excersises for learning the elements of art (for example: form and how to create it through value, line, space, and being able to give the object spatial sense).Otherwise, it is a good beginner reference book in the sense that it'll give you direction if you're trepadatious.

In the back there is a sort of art equipment index explaining types of materials and suggested ways to use them.There is also a small glossary of terms.

At best though, it's a good reference manual for teachers and I'll tell you why.It has breif explinations on materials, just enough to jog your memory (if you haven't used the material in a while).Has a good chronology for a curriculum if you are teaching a full year or 2 consecutive years of a painting and drawing course.

There is no history included, but it does show different approches for the same purpose.Example, people approach going to canvas in different ways: 1. carefully sketching in water soluble pencil, 2. sketching in charcoal, 3. Using a very light wash, 4. no pre-sketching at all.In other words, it gives you multiple methods to achieve the same end--how you work depends on which you'll chose.

Not a bad buy, not a great one either.

You're better off buying "The New Artist's Manual: The Complete Guide to Painting and Drawing Materials and Techniques" by this author.It is this book and "the artist's color manual: ..." rolled into one.

One of the most profuse and well illustrated books on Painting
Art Class: A Complete Guide to Painting
by Simon Jennings

This book is one of those for which you could give more than 5 stars.It is one of the most profusely illustrated books on the subject of painting, and these are color illustrations. Nearly every single page has nearly half a dozen or more of the most vibrant,colorful, and well appointed illustrations that I have ever seen.

So what's the downside of the book?There is no downside. This is 192 pages of the most wonderful instruction on the use of painting that I have ever seen.I discovered this while visiting the art galleries and shops in Taos, New Mexico.

The book shows Simon Jennings to be the "general editor" andSally Bulgin to be the "Consultant Editor" and several other names are included in advisory roles. I don't understand the identifications concerning "authorship" but certainly this is a book to stand out above and beyond the ordinary instruction on painting and the uses of color.

In my reviews of drawing books,I've always warned people of the use of buzz words and gimmick phrases such as"complete-guide-to"as a marketing gimmick. That's because almost no books live up to the promise."Art Class:A Complete Guide To Painting"is most certainly an exception to this.

"Art Class" is one of those texts that stands so far above the other books on painting that it eclipses the entire field.It is one of those books that is so visually stunning that it is well worth the trip to a book shope to flip through its pages.

I liked the opening paragraphs on page 14, Chapter One, titled "Where Do I Start" where"Art Class" says:

"This book covers many levels of ability,but this page is amed at the absolute beginner rather than the painter whose interests have been focused and techniques honed through years of dedication and experience."

Absolute Beginners!That's who gets themost benefit of this book. It shows all the materials you need to work in water color, oil, acrylic and what you need to work either indoors or out;but the text is so encyclopedic that you are not surprised to learn that the authors also were advised by technical experts from WINDSOR & NEWTON, which is the company that makes fine art paints.This is the most visually compelling art book I have ever seen.

It's all about what you need to know to start working in color. More surprising still is the author's division of the book into three sections, instead of the typical ten to twelve chapters.Even the glossary is done in a unique manner.The page backgrounds are yellow, rather than white, and the outer edge of the glossary pages are trimmed in a beautiful red. This book is entirely designed by people who understand visual beauty and how to bring to life all things visually presented.

"Art Class" lists the basics as these classifications:
Color, Paints, Diluents,Mediums,Primers & Grounds,Varnish and size,Brushes,Knives and accessories,Palettes,Canvas,Boarrds and panels,Papers,Painting techniques,Pastels,Drawing Equipment.This book is so unlike everything else I have ever seen that it is one of my genuine treasures on the book shelf. If you get a copy,expect it to become "dog-eared" from constant use.

I haven't been so utterly overwhelmed by an art book since I discovered Jack Hamm!

Back to Art
This a great book to get someone started painting or as a refresher course for those already painting. Good ideas for getting over the mental blocks artists sometimes encounter.

painting for all levels
This is a very complete reference for what seems like all you need to know (and then some) about painting.I am not an experienced painter so I was almost a little intimidated at first with all the information presented here.The issue with me though was not the book (which is well organized) but putting the brush to the canvas...

It's definitely worth the price, often I'll resell a book that I just wasn't "in to" but this is a great reference that covers so much I know I'll have it for a long time to come (I've only owned it for 3 weeks at this point...)

fabulous compendium for beginning and intermediate artists
This is a remarkable resource -- comprehensive, well-organized and understandable.

I am not blessed with artistic talent, though I love art and have always wanted to try painting for pleasure.This book is perfect.It is divided into three sections: Where Do I Start, What Should I Paint, and What are the Basics.It begins at the beginning, discussing the choice of medium and theme; the selection, acquisition and care of supplies; and the choice of subject.It then moves on to technique: how to render a three-dimensional object on paper; how to compose a study; how to paint color, pattern and texture; painting space, depth and distance.These instructions are augmented by lots of pictures.You will see the step-by-step way to paint a tree, a face, a still life, a landscape etc.The final section really covers the basics -- mixing colors, types of paints, brushes, accessories, palette layouts, preparing canvases, paper, correcting mistakes, pencils, inks .... Every page is interesting.I learned so much.A glossary and index complete this wonderful resource.

The writing is clear and the many photos and illustrations are fabulous.I cannot recommend this book highly enough.If you are interested in teaching art or learning to paint, you cannot go wrong. ... Read more

Amazon.com
For those who've enjoyed the original, the good news is that the newedition of The Story of Painting has grown by more than 300 pages ofphotographs--magnified close-ups of details from nearly half the 450 paintingsin the book. Fauvist paint strokes become mighty slabs; sparkling light on aDutch still life is revealed as a series of tiny dots; the cheeks of a young manin an Italian Renaissance portrait betray a touch of five o'clock shadow. Thiskind of close looking is seductive, and it's an important part of Sister Wendy'sdirect, unpretentious approach to art.

As a history of painting, Sister Wendy's book has its strong points (works withreligious or spiritual themes and those that lend themselves to psychologicalinterpretation) as well as its lapses (a very skimpy discussion of Cubism andinadequate treatment of works from the late 20th century). Even the title is abit of a misnomer. The painting in question is purely Western; there is nothinghere about Indian or Persian miniatures, or the great tradition of Chineselandscapes.

But what Sister Wendy alone offers are vivid, personal interpretations that comefrom a deep well of emotional sympathy with works of art. Who else would noticethe way the bagpiper in The Wedding Feast by Pieter Breughel "stares atthe porridge with the longing of the truly hungry"? Who else would point out howVenus--the "older woman" pleading with "virile" Adonis not to go off to war inTitian's "Venus and Adonis"--shows us "her superb back and buttocks, beguilinglyrounded, full of promise." Rather than portraying Western art as the dutifulproduction of "masterpieces," she revels in the physicality of paint and thevariety of human experience these works represent. --Cathy CurtisBook Description
New revised and expanded edition!

"The story of painting is one that is immensely rich in meaning, yet its value is all too often hidden from us by the complexities of its historians.We must forget the densities of 'history' and simply surrender to the wonder of the story." -Sister Wendy Beckett Internationally renowned art historian Sister Wendy Beckett brings her knowledge, her deep love of art, and her luminous insights to The Story of Painting- making a difficult subject accessible and stimulating to all. The Story of Painting features more than 450 masterpieces- all faithfully reproduced in rich, full color- chronicling the developments and movements in the history of painting over the past 800 years, from Gothic to Renaissance, Romanticism to Impressionism, Post-Impressionism to Modernism.Each movement is introduced by visual timelines to provide an instant overview of the significant artists and paintings of the era. This enhanced and expanded edition of The Story of Painting has almost doubled in size.It expands the existing 400 pages to 736, focusing on the approximately 450 paintings with facing pages of details for almost 200 of them. This classic art book presents the masterpieces in two ways: as the original painting appeared and, on double spread pages, as enlarged close-ups of the paintings' most pertinent details.Now the reader can study a painting as though standing in front of it in a museum, seeing the powerful effect of the whole and then studying the minutest details of brushstrokes, textures, quality of lines, and overlays of color. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (19)

What awful reproductions!!!
The first purpose of an artbook is usually to showcase fine art with high quality reproductions. This book certainly packs in ample artwork, well supported by Sister Wendy's colourful commentary. However the image quality is horrendous, with a vast proportion of the reproductions being badly pixelated or blurred.If you like Sister Wendy, then buy her other books. This one is so sloppy that it is disrespectful to the artworks and is to be avoided.

Can't fail to please!
A 1¼ inch thick book with about 400 pages and more than 450 color illustrations of the most significant works of art in Western history can hardly fail to please anyone with an interest in art history.In Sister Wendy's Story of Painting, Sister Wendy provides an intellectual and somewhat passionate discussion on major art movements and sensitive analysis and interpretation of more than thirty paintings she showcases in the book.Enlargements of particular areas of these paintings are used to analyze techniques and identify symbolism.In the absence of ancient paintings that have survived, Sister Wendy uses other forms of art such as sculptures, friezes, tapestries and mosaics to illustrate the subject, composition, style and proportions used in paintings of that era.She treats all styles of art with equal reverence.Shortcomings in this book are few.Illustrated timelines that appear before each major section of the book could be improved by the addition of other historical milestones to help the reader achieve a better perspective.I would prefer less commentary about numerous paintings of a single artist and instead, more information on the cultural and political influences that shaped the development of painting.I would prefer less coverage of obscure artists such as the Nabis in favor of more on Victorian art and Art Nouveau.And I would wish for a more eloquent conclusion to the book.But the thing that was most lacking to me is a discussion on paint!Nowhere is the development of paint as a medium discussed with any depth.These aforementioned shortcomings, however, pale in comparison to what Sister Wendy has accomplished in her book -- the creation of a comprehensive and scholarly source of information on the history of painting that neither the newcomer nor the expert could fail to enjoy.

Wonderful, quality photos
I am very excited about using this book to study art with my children.The photos are top quality, showing close ups of interesting details in the paintings. I have a collection of art books, but this is by far the best. Worth every penny!

Much of art history IS associated with religious images
If you study art history at all, you know that the Roman Catholic Church (in particular various popes such as Julius and the Medici family-line popes)were great patrons of the arts in order to glorify both the Church (Christianity) and their pontificate.Michaelangelo, Rafael, etc. were commissioned by the Church to produce magnificent works of art, and indeed they did, hence the Sistine Chapel and The School of Athens in the papal apartments.If Mr. Jin looks at the numerous Annunciation paintings and reads history, he will realize that they are reflections of "popular culture"--Christianity was the HUGE influence at that time.Popular culture at any given time reflects what is on the "minds of the people"--hence the name POPULAR that comes from POPULATION.Today's "culture" reflects the obssession with celebrities, hence the plethora of celebrity gossip magazines.

Anyway, the book IS magnificent and so assessible to the common person.As much as I love art history and have 15 college credits in it, I don't want to read the dry stuff either.This edition with its close-ups is magnificently done, and the copy is easily digested.I think Sister Wendy did the art world a favor, and this is how art should be presented instead of pretentiously overdone by "experts" who want to impress each other.By the way, I'm probably the only person who prefers Rafael to Michaelangelo (though he can't be TOUCHED in sculpture), I think that everyone should check out "The School of Athens"--what a masterpiece!And Picasso's "Guernica" is a haunting portrayal of the horrors of war.Knowing the stories behind the paintings and not worrying about the "methods" the artists used (which should be relegated to a techniques-type book) makes the paintings so much more meaningful to an audience.I don't care for Cubism until I know that it's influenced by stylized African art and that Picasso was reacting the 1937 bombing of Guernica.Live on, Sister Wendy!

Great for historians, fantastic for the many
I'd just like to comment on how some reviewers found Sister Wendy to "narrow" and focused on Christian paintings. These people should look at the whole of art history and how influential Christian art has been over the years. the "minor" artisits she devoted so much time to are in fact huge in the art world and Van Gogh got four pages which is a lot and hes only one aspect, just because hes main stream dosnt mean she should devote more time to him. The Christian religion had a huge impact on the art world over a very long period of time, this should be taken into consideration. ... Read more

Book Description
Artists are intrigued by all that a workshop offers--one-on-one attention, a focused course of study and a knowledgeable instructor.This book offers a practical and stimulating alternative to the expense and inconvenience of conventional painting workshops, including:

* chapters organized like an actual week-long workshop
* first-hand instruction from a seasoned pro
* secrets to create fresh, bright colors and techniques for painting outdoors
* a dozen popular "paint-on demos" in which correct the author's common problems on student paintings ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

How Does He Make a Living ?
In the opening of the book, the artist mentions that he dropped out of art classes because of his instructors.I think he should have continued his art classes.I don't know if his paintings are meant to be just illustrative and are not real representations of what he does because I've seen his work before and it's not comparable to what is in this book.
If I had to pay for his instructional teaching, then I would demand my money back.The only reason I haven't returned this book is that I misplaced the Amazon invoice and packing materials.In all honesty, I must say that my first oil painting I ever painted turned out better than anything this artist has in his book, and that was without any previous or prior knowledge, and I don't consider myself to be a great artist.
Painting is like common sense - you either have it, or you don't.

A small epiphany!
I have read a good number of books on painting and this one is head and shoulders above the rest. I experienced an immediate improvement in the quality of my painting after reading this book.

Some of the things I found valuable were Goerschner's explanation of how he achieves color harmony through the use of four "grays," the role of dynamic and static shapes in a composition, and his annotated "paint-on" critiques.

This book contains complete and well rounded instruction -- I can't recommend it enough!

It's just OK
It's more suitable for beginners. There is not much information. There are some good suggestions. The book title attracted me. It's pretty basic.

Finally -- a "freeing your creativity" book that works
I've been painting off and on for 50 years. This book is the best I've read, bar none, on how to free up your artistic creativity. I've read it through twice and keep it handy as a reference. The ideas within are expressed with simplicity and great skill, making the book a delight to read. The book is definitely a keeper. I highly recommend it for any serious oil or acrylic artist.

Energetic and Inspirational
I am using this book (along with Kevin Macpherson's "Fill Your Oil Paintings with Light and Color" and Charles Sovek's "Oil Painting -Develop Your Natural Ability") as a foundation for my self-directedstudy in oil painting.

Goershner's understanding of design and color,and his enthusiasm and clarity of teaching makes him a must-read forserious students of painting. My hope is to become as masterful as he is inhis paintings: he manages to intrigue the viewer immediately, and usessuperb compositional and color methods to elate and inspire, and leave theviewer wanting more.

Through step by step examples in the book, heexplains why his paintings work so well, and how you can develop the samecompetence. I particularly enjoyed his critiques of 12 student paintingswhich he then improves and explains why they now look so much better. Whata superb way to learn!

I've definitely become a Goershner fan and will beworking with this book often. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (4)

release the inner artist
This book is great, it shows in detail exactly how to do acrylic paintings using all kinds of subjects and mediums... as a newby to painting (I usually draw) I am having a lot of fun.I thoroughly recommend this book

Great Step by Step Instructions
After a short introduction about the materials, color, and tips on composition, Arnold Lowrey spends the bulk of this book giving instructions on how he created 6 paintings that use different techniques.These instructions really are step by step and never jump way ahead in the painting in one "step" leaving you thinking, "what, how did he do that?" He always lets you know exactly what colors and instruments he used to create each object in the painting.All in all, incredibly helpful.

Informative
"Painting With Acrylics" starts with an informative introduction which discusses the wide variety in styles and uses of acrylic paint.The sections on acrylic mediums, brush strokes, composition and using color were particularly interesting.The author then shows how to paint six scenes using a well-rounded variety of techniques.He shows how to use palette knives, sponges, sand paper, paper towels, razor blades, fingers and of course paint brushes to achieve the look of water color, scumbling, oil paint, and glazes.In addition, he teaches the reader how to use acrylic pastes and gels.I highly recommend this book.

An extremely helpful introduction to acrylics
I was unsure of buying this book because it was unreviewed and I had not heard of the author.I'm very glad I took the chance.I've been dabbling with acrylic painting for the last year or so (with no other painting or art experience), and I'm still a pretty rank beginner.I have several other books on acrylic painting.Some of them I like very well, but this is the one I was able to follow the most easily and wind up with something approximating "art."

The strenght of the book is the detailed instruction for completing each project.Lowrey approaches things in a step by step manner.Some of my other books are step by step, but they seem like huge steps because I am left wondering, okay, how did you get from this step to that step?Not here.I think any beginner would be very pleased with this book.

As for what the book covers - It has brief sections on materials, color theory, and composition.Most of the book, though, is split up into six projects:
1. Watercolor technique
2. Oil (impasto) technique
3. mixed watercolor/oil technique
4. glazing with white
5. glasing with color
6. using pastes & gels.

Following each project is a number of paintings created with the same technique.And Mr. Lowrey's paintings are very attractive, I think.I very much like his use of color.

At any rate, Mr. Lowrey's book was very helpful to this beginner.He maintains a website, so check out some of his art if you're curious. (an internet search on Arnold Lowrey and acrylic should be sure to turn it up.) ... Read more

Book Description

The Paris of the 1860s and 1870s was supposedly a brand-new city, equipped with boulevards, cafés, parks, and suburban pleasure grounds--the birthplace of those habits of commerce and leisure that constitute "modern life." Questioning those who view Impressionism solely in terms of artistic technique, T. J. Clark describes the painting of Manet, Degas, Seurat, and others as an attempt to give form to that modernity and seek out its typical representatives--be they bar-maids, boaters, prostitutes, sightseers, or petits bourgeois lunching on the grass. The central question of The Painting of Modern Life is this: did modern painting as it came into being celebrate the consumer-oriented culture of the Paris of Napoleon III, or open it to critical scrutiny? The revised edition of this classic book includes a new preface by the author.

Customer Reviews (3)

Rutting InNascent Pop Culture
Seurat's,'La Grande Jatte' spelled the limits of petti-borgeoise modernity. For the previous 20 years, the Impressionists, led by the incomparably gifted, Manet, had attempted to make images describing this class, their appearance & behaviour. However,the Impressionists were bourgeoise & inevitably more aligned to their own class, and with the simultaneous rise of the dealer-critic system. Thus the steady sequence of shows, interviews & promotional literature issuing from managed,'creative' artists became the commonplace we experience in the arts today. The new class disappeared from Impressionist art when it was absorbed into the bourgeoise.Witness Monet's shrewd disavowal of the figure as he opted for his less offensive, touristy canon of landscapes. The detatchment of Manet's barmaid at the Follies, 1882,and the inanimate, even catatonic people in Degas's pictures of this period exemplify the new class. Clark argues that the emergence of this class was a product of the rebuilding of Paris by Baron von Haussmann. The old work centre of the city was guttered during the rejig, the trades & graves moved to new peripheries, and commercial entertainments, leisure & pleasure grew in their place to cater for this new white-collar mass public. The questionable role of prostitution is crucial to Clark's claims for this class and it is on this question that Manet is pre-eminent. This era announced the rise of capitalism and the spectacle society of which Clark is a major critical voice. Prodigious scholarship, marvellous insights, with fascinating, rarely reproduced 'secondary' art works to flesh out the theme; I can't think of a better way of teasing back the past to view the present.

As perfect as the paintings he discusses?
As a student of nineteenth century French painting, I think this may in fact be the finest book ever written on Parisian painting in the time of Haussmanization.Clark manages to offer an intelligent Marxist-based claim about class and the emerging Parisian landscape in the 60's without losing sight of the paintings themselves.While most scholars feel the genius of this book lies in his wonderful discussion of "what couldn't be seen in Olympia", I find the first chapter "Environs of Paris" equally fascinating in its discussion of Manet's Exposition Universelle of 1867.A MUST read for any lover of Parisian history or Manet.

An Art History Book For Anyone Interested in History
I like to think of myself as a person who is curious about a wide range of things, especially in the realm of culture and the arts. Most art history books, however, put me right to sleep, with their endless catalogs of curatorial details about brushstrokes and paint textures and influences and provenance. These detailed analyses almost never situate the paintings in any sort of context and almost never explain WHY we should be interested in these details, other than to prove ourselves worthy connoiseurs to others in the know. Clark's book is a refreshing change from such mandarin drivel. Clark begins with a lengthy discussion of the social context of the paintings he is about to discuss and only then proceeds to extended analyses of particular paintings. Clark is interested in the larger ideas and trends of the period and, most important of all, actually USES the details of the paintings as evidence in the course of making an ARGUMENT about what the paintings mean (hint to other art historians: having an argument contributes significantly to the interest of a book or article). In addition, Clark's argument about the nature of the social changes occuring in France in the 1860's and 70's is compelling and thought-provoking (be forewarned: some Marxism is involved). I found myself actually learning things about the paintings Clark discusses, and looking at them over and over again, trying to find more in them, in much the same way as I would go back to a book or a poem after reading a good piece of literary criticism. I think this book will appeal to anyone who wants to learn more about either 19th-century French painting or 19th-century France. Clark is a stimulating and perceptive guide to this crucial period in the history of painting. Bravo! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

You can do it!
Follow the simple step by step directions for a beautiful "rock garden."

This book is a treasure
Whether you are simply curious about rock painting, or have a desire to paint flowers on rocks, this book is for you.It is well written by a world class rock artist and teacher and in addition to offering know-how, it is an encouraging book that shows the way to get involved in this fascinating and not too expensive art form.

Painting Flowers on Rocks by Lin Welford
This book was as I expected it to be.. the demonstrations were clear and instructons easy.. I ordered it because of an episode on the Carol Duvall show in which the author painted a beautiful bouquet on a simple smooth rock ..I have ordered other books of the same nature from Amazon before and have been equally satisfied.

Being creative
It was such a pleasure to receive Lin's book about painting flowers on rocks. I have several of her other books which has brought us lots of hours of fun and fantasy. We appreciate her talents and her sharing her ideas with others like us. Her flower painted rocks are perfect for places like cemeteries that don't allow fresh flowers. It helps bring beauty to our loved ones graves without the work and worry of live plantings. The rocks require "no watering!" Thanks Lin for all your creative ideas.

Painting Flowers on Rocks
Great seller!Excellent product, fast shipment.Will do business with seller any time. ... Read more

Book Description
"The little baby first perceives light and color as differentiated shades of brightness. Only when light and color work upon the eye does it become a perfected organ of sight."

The stimulation of active imagination and creativity is a vital factor in a child's development. This essential, practical guide for parents and teachers is filled with colorful examples and shows that painting with children is more than just a form of self-expression. Müller encourages and attempts to understand children's fantasies through their artwork.

Painting with Children contains sections on the "moral effects of color," the experience of colors, preparation, color stories and poems, panting with plant colors, painting the moods and seasons of nature, and much more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

wonderful little book
a great resource for parents and art teachers.
inspiring paintings by young children.a must for anyone who wishes to starttheir children on a lifelong exploration of color.i'm an artist and father who found this book very helpful!

wonderful introduction to watercolors
This wonderful book is fundamentally academic (presents research and writings from Rudolf Steiner and Goethe; recommends poetry by Shakespeare and Wordsworth) yet warm and practical.

Brunhild Muller explains first the effect each color has on a child.This is because children experience color in a more vivid and emotional way than many of us.Most adults have lost what they knew about color as children, having been taught that what there is to know about a color is its name and nothing more.The seemingly simple task of preparing to paint is divided into five steps which are discussed in detail; tips for materials are also included.Later chapters give ideas for setting the stage for a painting experience -- such as stories, poetry, seasons, or the moods of nature.Innovative ways to introduce color mixing are also presented.

The entire theory of how children perceive color, and its ramifications for introducing painting, is well expressed.I found this book inspirational and would especially recommend it to any homeschooling parent. ... Read more