5 comments about The Watercolorist's Essential Notebook - Landscapes.

1. This is really a must-have. Very detailed in a clear and direct language. Excellent for every level of watercolor painters!



2. This has some great step-by-step lessons for creating different effects in a landscape watercolor. The only criticism I have of it is the drab coloring in many of the examples.



3. This is a really great book on watercolor. It is full of wonderful tips and explanations of how to achieve many simple to advanced effects. It also explains why certain colors are better to mix with others for the results you want. It is also amazingly readable. I set it by my reading chair and I am drawn to pick it up and read just for interest. I am learning so much. FYI- I have lots of knowledge about art, but am a beginning to intermediate watercolorist.



4. This book offers great advice on landscape painting so, If you've wanted to paint plein air with watercolors, this is the book for you.



5. This book contains valuable techniques for the creation of landscape features in watercolor. It is perhaps a bit overwhelming for the absolute beginner, but for anyone who has a little experience with watercolors and is motivated to improve, it's a great book!

5 comments about Problem Solving for Oil Painters: Recognizing What's Gone Wrong and How to Make It Right.

1. This book suits more for the serious beginners or intermediate painters 'cause you have to be familiar with the basic concepts. It offers a way to verify the quality of your paintings point by point.
   My point of view is that you have to read it entirely before you can point on the problem. The topics are easy to reach after you know what you're searching for.
   Sometimes I would like to have more examples or explanations on some points.
   Simple but effective if you're not a complete beginner...



2. An excellent clearly written informative book. Will be much referred to and treasured for many years. Thankyou Mr. Kreutz



3. I wanted a comprehensive book on oil colors this is more about the basics then anything else.



4. ok for beginners and those who paint in an impressionistic style. could focus a bit more on materials. some good basic tips.



5. I'm a professional in the business and make my living as an artist. This book is a wonderful reference and is always close by on the shelf. The work in it is excellent and the principles are straight forward as well as solving lots of the problems artists and painters encounter. Love it and recommneded it many times over.

5 comments about The Complete Oil Painter: The Essential Reference for Beginners to Professionals.

1. As the first book I ever bought on painting with oil colours, I didn't know what to expect. Well, this book is really a great reference, covers everything - charecteristics of specific pigments, how to prime canvas and panels, which mediums do what.. and it has some very helpful demonstrations. What I was missing, is any word about glazing, which medium to use with oils (actuall ratio of distilled turpentine to linseed oil and so on), anything that someone that wants to be more of a pro would look for. But still, a great book.
   Also, since the author uses water-soluble oils, it is a very good book for people that use those. He explains everything for those too.



2. My instructor talked about this book in class and said it was a very helpful book to have. Being a novice, I took her advice and ordered one. It has been very helpful, with clear explanations concering color mixing and opaque and translucent color techniques. I can only recommend this book as a beginning oil painter, but have gotten great tips and my use of color combinations have greatly improved.



3. Just wanted to say I found the book informative but not actually for a true beginner, a first timer who wanted to try painting in oils. The book used lots of words and terms of reference that were unfamiliar to me without first explaining what these terms and words actually meant.
   Other than that I must admit I have learnt a lot from the book and would recommend it to someone with some familarity with the genre or a beginner with more brains than me perhaps.
   Thanks



4. This book is well organized, and offers practical information on the tools of oil painting, as well as organization and application.It does not give step by step lessons, nor does it suggest any particular style of oil painting. It is designed to aid the reader in whatever style or level. As a teacher of oil painting this is one of my most used books, and the one I recommend to my students.



5. I was not sure what to expect having purchased other art books, but this is definitely a good book and I would recommend it to new and intermediate skill level artist. The Complete Oil Painter is well laid out and has much better example art than most books. I would highly recommend this book.

5 comments about Carlson's Guide to Landscape Painting.

1. This book is a must for artists who want to learn the correct way to paint the landscape. It not only teaches the important concepts of landscape painting, but also gives reasons for the concepts. Carlson's Guide to Landscape Painting will be a study guide and reference book for me.



2. This book is full of important information on how to approach landscape painting.
   I will read this book over and over again
   very recommended!!!



3. Carlson's Guide truly is the bible of landscape painting. It's loaded with invaluable information for landscape artists, but studio artists will get so much out of it, too. Over the years, I've returned to the book again and again, and I always find some fresh insights that help me resolve whatever issues I'm dealing with that during that period. If you're looking for a sophisticated text that goes beyond the basic fundamentals like value, color, shape, etc. covered in most art instruction books, this one is for you.



4. A great reference and interesting reading for all phases of landscape painting, Carlson's guide has been referred to by art instructors, and novice painters alike. If there was only one landscape book you had the money to buy, this would be it. All black and white examples. Easy to understand concepts.



5. I BOUGHT THIS LITTLE GEM, ON THE RECOMMEDATION FROM MY LAST EN PLEIN AIRE INSTRUCTOR, KEN DeWAARD. HE HAS TAUGHT ME MORE, IN HIS WEEK WORKSHOP ABOUT PAINTING, THAN I HAVE LEARNED FROM ALL THE WORKSHOPS I HAVE TAKEN DOWN THROUGH THE YEARS. AND THE BASIS OF HIS TEACHING METHOD? HE WORKS TO PASS ON ONLY THE "PEARLS" OF WISDOM, LEARNED FROM MANY OF THE PAST MASTERS, WITHOUT CLUTTERING YOUR MIND WITH ALOT OF NOT-SO-RELEVENT INFO.
   [HE TOLD ME THAT MOST OF HIS QUOTES COME DIRECTLY FROM CARLSON'S BOOK!]
   ....THE ENTIRE CLASS OF SEASONED ARTISTS CLAIMED THAT, BY THE LAST DAY, THEY HAD GROWN SO MUCH IN ABILITY AND UNDERSTANDING, THAT NO ONE WANTED THE CLASS TO END. SO, IF YOU ARE NEW AT ART, BUY THIS BOOK AND KEEP IT, UNTIL YOU HAVE ENOUGH EXPERIENCE TO UNDERSTAND THE JEWEL THAT IT IS. .... ITS BITS OF ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, BUT ITS NOT A PICTURE BOOK..
   ANYWAY, I'VE DONE COMMISSIONED PORTRAITS FOR 30 YEARS. AND YET, WITH THE COMPACTED INFO IN THIS BOOK, AND BY PAINTING THE NATURAL COLORS OF OUTDOORS, I AM FINALLY STARTING TO GROW AS AN ARTIST.

5 comments about The Guerilla Art Kit.

1. This book is so wonderful and inspirational! If you ever feel like making art is just a business and has no meaning, read this book & take back your power! Art is about freedom and this book is for anyone, artist or otherwise, who wants to exercise their freedom.



2. The Guerilla Art Kit is a charming addition to author/illustrator Keri Smith's curriculum vitae. Its attraction stems from its low-key style and a wealth of ideas executed well enough to appear at odds with the simplistic cover. Thumbing randomly through the book is unavoidable; it exudes an odd sort of charisma.
   
   The concept of guerilla art is a clever one. Who doesn't find the idea of a sneak attack appealing? The notion of walking tiptoe through some moldy paradigms to pop up suddenly with a speedy installation of public art and slipping away before the masses shake the haze from their eyes feels personal and fun. As a self-defined non-artist I look for ways to articulate impressions that feel like me rather than feel like art. The descriptor "non-artist" relieves most societal and personal pressure and expectation leaving room to play with ideas that include genuine expression of my self and my experiences. When a sharp idea like guerilla art comes along it adds a measure of amusement to the process. I'm already envisioning an art rebellion complete with secret handshake and passwords and covert operations to be carried out by members of the creative underground - a sort of "Hogan's Heroes" meets Bansky plus flash mob.
   
   Jennifer New's book gave me insight into what a journal could be but the artistic skill exhibited in those pages is a bit daunting to one who scribbles on scraps and torn pages and later can't read her own writing. The Guerilla Art Kit, while not a journal oriented, fleshed out my perspective with fun, quirky ideas and created a new line of thinking for me. Its unconventional cover and construction siphon away the intimidation factor - it's a tool the average non-artist can love unconditionally. It truly is enchanting.



3. I bought this as a gift for my husband so he could use this book as a tool for inspiration when he's not feeling creative (or feeling stuck on a project). Even though we've both had extensive art training it doesn't hurt to have some refreshing fun ideas to work with to get your mind flowing again.



4. This book has some great ideas about how to spark the atmosphere. Push folks to think...to speak out. We have the freedom to speak out (so far)... use it! This books helps the artist in you demonstrate your patriotism through dissent.



5. Se trata de un libro muy básico, en extremo. Si ya estás ligeramente familiarizado con stencils y cosas hechas a mano este libro te sobra. Tengo que pensar como reutilizarlo, una pena que no venga ninguna idea al respecto en el libro...

5 comments about Oil Painter's Solution Book Landscapes: XX Answers to Your Oil Painting Questions.

1. Excellent and comprehensive. The author covers all of the basics you need to know as an artist and explains things in wonderful detail with illustrations. I can see that I will continue to use this book as a resource when I am trying to resolve an issue or just learn new ways of doing things. I would highly recommend for beginning painters. Experienced painters woould also treasure this book.



2. I started painting with oils only a few months ago and have aquired several books regardihg oil painting in an effort to examine several points of view on the subject. This book, while it may not be the most helpful to me at this stage in my development, it is simply an excellent source of information for old and new artists alike. I would recommend adding this to any library of anyone just beginning a very complex hobby.



3. I was very pleased with this oil painter's solution book. It gave very clear and helpful answers to many of my questions about landscape painting, and the paintings themselves were quite beautiful.



4. Of the 63 art books in my library, this is the best I've run into. It's to the point with skilled illustrations. By isolating one principle at a time and giving examples, it makes it easy for the reader to grasp the issue. It also isn't full of self-serving comments. Too many art books go into the soul searching and emotional aspect of painting. But not all people the same feelings, and this makes the verbiage unnecessary.
   
   Another plus is the binding. The ring binding means you don't have to crack the book spine to keep it open.
   
   This book is perfect for the artist who wants to-the-point instruction that includes problem solving. I'm recommending it to the students in my classes. Frankly, it's the best I've seen.



5. It is written in a clear and detailed presentation. By leading with a question the artist can easily relate to the subject. The demo's are very easy to follow. Great book, spiral binding so it can be laid open for reference.

5 comments about The Artist's Complete Guide to Figure Drawing: A Contemporary Perspective on the Classical Tradition.

1. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn the correct way to draw the human figure in an accurate and realistic way. I went to art school in the early eighties and was never taught this approach to drawing and now that I have read this book my life drawing skills have improved immensely.



2. The study of classical drawing of Old Masters is not only necessary step, but enjoyable touch to timeless magic of art.



3. I actually started out using the Bargue Drawing Course (invented in the 19th century) to learn classical drawing methods. This book is the PERFECT addendum for anyone that is trying to understand how to draw accurately from life. The Bargue Drawing Course is VERY light on technical tips (since it was intended for use in an atelier where a master could instruct the student on proper technique).
   
   Most drawing classes today emphasize gestural drawing and 'quick' drawing. These are very useful skills to have (no doubt!), but accuracy and good draftsmanship will never come from gestural and quick practice. Someone seeking to be well rounded in the technical aspects of drawing can do no better than with this book. Before exposure to this book my drawing was 'topped'.. this gave me the tools to take my drawing to the next level.



4. This is an excellent book. It takes a fresh look at teaching both beginners and experienced artists on his approach. It's very well written and easy to understand. This is one of the best art instruction books, if not the best, that I've ever worked with.



5. I got this book for my life drawing class and I really like this book. It does not teach anatomy or proportion. It shows the classical way of doing figure drawing and how to do finish rendering. It's more traditional approach and really helpful. I have learned a lot from it.

5 comments about Fashion Design Drawing Course.

1. I bought this book acually wanting to draw and create clothes but I didn't do any of that. On the other hand it does teach you the right way to do certain things like how to get inspiration and how to get it on paper but again you don't actually draw.



2. But about how to draw inspiration from common everyday things. It`s really not about rendering or drawing fashion, but more about the thought process in making the garments.



3. This book is more about collection development than it is about fashion drawing. And the worst part is... it's so sparse on the information even for how to develop a collection. Everything is in a nutshell. It's like picking up a children's book-- you don't get much out of it other than the obvious.



4. Very basic, it goes on a summary overview of areas of fashion design. So, it's great for a beginner that is looking for a quick introduction to what fashion desing drawing would include. Not for someone that has a general idea on what fashion design entails and is looking for more "hands-on" more sophisticated projects. For example, I was looking on how to actually draw clothes wore by people...there was only one area for that, it covered actual drawing of the human body; about 4 pages. A lot of general, finding your style, mood boards, etc. To the title I would add "101" so it is not misleading, then it would be an excellent book!



5. The title is an absolute lie. There aren't even general sketches to look onto as templates! This book, chock full of details on how to become "inspired", may help if you need assistance focusing on what motivates you--but otherwise, it's not going to teach you at all about fashion illustration.

5 comments about Anatomy for the Artist.

1. Great way to get familiar with the human body, different positions than the boring usual, a book for more advance artists looking to improve and to know those little details only a model or this book could reveal to you.



2. Excellent book for studying the human body! This book retails for $40.00 in a book store.



3. I got this because since I am not in college anymore, there is a big shortage of nude models! :)
   
   This is an excellent resource. The photography is incredible. The educational value exceptional. It has pictures and text with skeletal overlays for parts of the body - skull, spine, arms, torso, hip/thigh, feet and hands.
   
   My ONLY complaint is that this - like almost all model books - does not provide various body types nor does it represent enough ethnic groups.



4. It turns out, I own a lot of anatomy books. I find considerable beauty in the forms and structures of the body, internal as much as external. The interplay of muscle and bone is endlessly fascinating. So, it was natural for me to investigate this book.
   
   At first, I was a little put off by the "beautiful people" aspect of the book, but the lean, long models work well for demonstrating the way underlying structures influence the surface anatomy. I also like the historical overview of anatomical drawing with Leonardo plates and Albinus plates along with other historical anatomical renderings.
   
   Then, I really started looking at the author's drawings. They are lush, expressive line drawings. From what I can tell, the author works at a larger-than-life scale, so they may be seen out of context on the page; but that takes nothing away from their excellent quality. I would buy the book for the drawings alone, but this book has far more to offer.
   
   As others have noted, the production values are outstanding. Several plates are set up with a full-color photo of the model and a transparent overlay printed with drawings of matching internal structures. The paper is heavy and coated. The printing is bright and clear with plenty of color photography throughout. It's a beautiful book.
   
   In addition to an overview of human anatomy and the historical background described earlier, the author includes case studies of famous paintings such as "The Tub" by Edgar Degas and "A Combat of Nude Men" by Raphael. The author analyzes the figure in each pose, using a photo of an actual model as counterpoint for discussing the Old Master's handling of the figure in the work of art. Taken as a whole, the book is highly informative.
   
   This book is an excellent resource that offers tremendous value for the money. I give it five stars.



5. It's a really nice book. It has some amazing illustrations and photos in it and many of the illustrations are overlays that go right over the photo allowing you to further understand the relationship. It has been tremendously helpful in my figure drawing.

5 comments about Drawing for the Absolute and Utter Beginner.

1. I can't say I was blown away with this book, nor can I say I was disappointed, this the rating of 3 stars. It has great text to tell you "why" each part is important which a lot of books seem to lack any decent text at all. So for that I give it 5 stars.
   
   I was "expecting" at least some technique tips and pointers, like, here's a good way to draw texture on a leaf, or more concrete examples, like maybe some "tips" in the margins or something. A little cheat to keep you saying "oh cool" or something. At some point it seems to drown in text, which I suppose is probably what a beginner needs, but I'm more of a lets get to it kind of person. I want to see at least something fun at the end of my first lesson, not a squiggly line, so I would suggest complementing this book with a tips and technique book to get a well rounded beginners experience to keep it fun and keep you motivated.
   
   Obviously my expectations were not met, and that may be my own fault. I would say if you are a beginner, this will give you the start and the "classroom" portion, but add a book that will add the FUN and instant success to it too. It's a decent book, give it a shot.



2. Recently I decided to get back into drawing. I purchased this book after reading some good reviews about it on a number of art sites. It tackles not only the technical aspect of drawing, but the mental process behind it as well. I found this important as I was having trouble coming to the realisation of how your mind can hinder you greatly. All in all, the layout of the book is great, the comments and diagrams by students is encouraging and I have certainly found more success in my drawing and sketching results.



3. I like this book because it is very friendly, images are very good and I've noticed it has helped me a LOT in my drawing skills. Quality of the paper is excellent and I think it will help a lot of people like me.



4. This is a fabulous book for the beginning artist. I have just started an art class, and when I found this book I was estatic. It is a great lesson by lesson drawing tool. It is very easy to follow and like the title says it is for the absolute and utter beginner. I also feel like those who ARE more advanced will also benefit from the book. I like how there are examples from her students of all levels.



5. I am a novice at drawing. I took a community college drawing class last Winter that whet my appetite for drawing. I checked out all the drawing books at the library and found this jewel. It was exactly what I was looking for. It takes you through the process step by step and explains in detail the techniques you need to learn. The book allows you to go at your own pace! I gain confidence in comparing my work to the students' examples included in the book. I almost feel I am in a class with others as I go through the lessons. I extended my library check out of this book so many times, I figured I might as well buy it. I found this on Amazon and bought it. Amazon is a great place to buy things. Go Amazon!