Product Description

Customer Reviews (15)

Interesting.....
A good book, author could have left out some of the background info and added more instruction on technique.

An excellent guide for the beginning Sumi-e student.
As someone who has had a life long love affair with the Japanese Martial arts as well as Asian calligraphy and painting, I found this book highly informative and interesting.This book covers the basic introduction to Japanese ink painting.This text begins with the background of ink painting, and moves into the brush used, the type of ink and the paper and/or silk used in this art.Painting techniques are also explained as well as how to practice the brush strokes.In conclusion, this is a beautiful book that will be of value for anyone interested in Japanese ink painting.Rating:4 stars.Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Season of the Warrior: a poetic tribute to warriors, Martial art and self-defense myths, Never Trust a Politician, PR-24 Police Baton Advanced Techniques).

Fast and functional
This came so fast I couldn't believe it.It was just what we were looking for and just in the right amount of time.The book is perfect for a beginner looking to learn the right way.It's easy to follow and is a great teaching tool.

Japanese Sumie Brush Painting
This is one of the best of my 4 sumi-e books. Okamoto creatively covers the basics of ink, brush, and paper. She beautifully describes the primary strokes, how to utilize color and even illustrates the application of sumi-e painting to masterpiece artwork and scenes from every day life. This is an excellent book for a budding sumi-e artist.

Not just eye appealing
This book is almost like having a personal instructor.Understandable descriptions of technique throughout. ... Read more

Product Description
Features concise exploration of essential watercolour techniques through exercises, step demonstrations and beautiful finished paintings.

This unique artist's reference offers easy-to-follow, ingenious ideas and techniques for painting 50 popular landscapes in watercolor. The 50 landscapes range from a gentle flower-filled meadow and hazy summer mountains to a dramatic cliff scene and rippling stream in sunshine. Each landscape is explored through exercises, step-by-step sequences and easy-to-follow instructions. Readers will learn the principle and technique, and then move on to the watercolor painting exercise. A comprehensive introductory section covers basic materials, techniques and colors, making this an indispensable reference for all artists. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Watercolor class pleaser
I purchased this and took it watercolor class with me. Others in the class liked it so well, I was asked to order two more. My instructor was one of those persons.

Great for Intermediates; Tough for beginners...
The first thing you would notice about the book is the unique size which is landscape-perfect. Although I bought a used copy,still its like-new. The first part of book illustrates the basics needed for the landscapes like perspectives, using quality probes such as brushes,papers etc.; which is really good for the person who is been quite familiar with watercolor medium and landscapes. I wouldn't say this is ideal for the very beginners in watercolor. But, yes, definitely good bunch of information for the intermediates. Specially, I found some tricks-n-magics like water feathering and masking pretty interesting while trying them for the first time!
The later part of the book focuses on the various natural scenarios like sandy seaside, riverbed, fields, puddles, sunset, snowy-rocky mountains, shallow water, falls, reflections of moonlight, buildings and lots of bridges with respective palette for the painting. The most impressive part according to me is- the work of reflections of objects and light in water is absolutely mind-boggling! Still I feel there should be atleast one painting explained throughout specially the ones with special techniques used in painting. Anyway I found author's video tutorial online which could be greatly helpful.
All in all, definitely a good find for the people who are really exploring the medium of watercolor. If you are able to discover few things on your own; then this book will be like wizard-stick to boost up your level of proficiency.

Brush with Watercolor
The pictures are beautiful. The recommended brushes were not available in my art store. I am not getting the results I hoped for but maybe after I get the brushes which I ordered from Englnd.

Helpful Basics
I appreciate this book because it breaks everything down for the beginning watercolorist. The sample landscapes cover a wide range of types of vegetation, weather, and local. The vivid colors are especially striking. Because the steps are manageable, I'm less afraid to try them. In painting the key is often to simplify, and this book is helping me do that more effectively. There are very few of the samples that I don't like well enough to try to paint myself.

watercolor landscapes
This book is helpful. He lists the colors used, but leaves out a lot of steps. The way he does the "final steps" would have helped me. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A Great Book for Beginning Artists
I had seen this book in art class and liked it because it takes you through how to's step by step.Great for beginners.

Excellent book for decorative painters
The diagrams and instructions are very clear.Even a non-talented person like me can paint birds following her lessons.

A great watercolorist instruction reference.
Shirley Porter's Watercolor Basics: Drawing And Painting Birds tells how to paint birds in watercolor, providing a simple source of basics for beginning bird painters. From poses and backgrounds to bird-watching tips,this uses exercises to show how to create easy patterns. ... Read more

Product Description
Using inks and liquid watercolor paints specially made for pens, Claudia Nice shows artists of all skill levels how to achieve the warm moods, rough textures and mellow hues of aging barns, farmhouses, mansions and more.Featuring dozens of step-by-step demonstrations along with her written instruction, Nice reveals simple methods for rendering a range of charming subjects.

Claudia is a multi-media artist, but prefers pen, ink and watercolor when working in the field.She has been an art consultant and instructor, has authored 15 art instruction books and travels across North America conducting workshops, seminars and demonstrations at schools, clubs, shops and trade shows.She has recently opened her own teaching studio near Mt. Hook, Oregon. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

Painting Weathered Buildings in Pen, Ink, &Watercolor
WOW This is a great book.Claudia has outdone herself.We have lots of her books and this one is better than the last.(If possible)It has great information to help the person that wants to do this kind of work with a pen.The book was in new condition and arrived here very quickly.We are so pleased.Thanks

watercolor buildings
This book has very useful techniques for expressing details in watercolor/pen ink of rustic buildings. Easy to follow. Excellent examples and lists of materials needed.

dragon5
This is a wonderful book to learn how to do pen and ink buildings. Claudia Nice is a very good pen and ink artist! Her books are very nice and I enjoy them very much.

Painting Weathered Buildings in Pen. Ink & Watercolor
If you are an artist or a person who likes old buildings and barns and wants to try something new this book is a wonderful book to purchase. Claudia Nice techniques and directions used in this book and her other books are easy to follow.In this book Claudia's explanation of perspective and working with perspective along with her diagrams is easy to follow.I especially like how Claudia used photographs of buildings and perspective lines drawn from the photos to the horizon/vanishing point line.This helps me when I am looking at a building that I am going to sketch for a painting.Following Claudia's instructionsand lots of practice can help anyone accomplish the goals one sets for oneself.The way Claudia sets up her books makes her a wonderful instructor for any level art student or a person who just wants to try something new.Claudia's way of explaining, drawings and examples make learning fun.

Great techniques
More than any other book I have read by Claudia Nice, this book has so many useful techniques that should make it useful for artists on just about any level! The book is specifically about drawing weather buildings and you will find that most of the illustrations deals with old wood, metal and brick, but the techniques introduced are incredibly useful for a lot of other subjects where you want a rough "organic" texture.

Even if you don't like the traditional very contrasty look of pen and ink with watercolor, I would recommend reading this book for it's general discussions of texture and it's samples of ink work using grey and sepia inks. ... Read more

Product Description
A collection of watercolour paintings by North American artists which cover a range of subjects, and includes practical advice on using colour. The volume is part of a series of five publications. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Inspiring and Technique
If you are looking for a Splash edition that has a smattering of everything; this is the one.Cats up close, pears in a still life, cows, street scenes. This is the fifth in a series of watercolor books that feature various artists and their work.

With this book you get beautiful color photos of the art along with a little bit about the piece followed by "technique" which tells you what they did to achieve the particular look.For example: "I use Golden fluid acrylics mixed with whatever is nearby, such as pastel, ink, crayon, alcohol, etc.After blocking out what I want to save with frisket, I splash color on with a wide brush."

As always with the Splash books, this too is inspiring, but I especially like the technique explained in this one.

A kick-start for watercolor artists!
This book is a celebration of color and the watercolor medium.Turningthe pages is like watching a fabulous fireworks display.Each page revealsanother explosion of beautiful color painting.Like fireworks, somepaintings go off with a huge bang, and others are more muted; but eachpainting has something to say -- there are no "duds."Helpfulcomments by the artists give insight as to how and why each painting wasdone.If you're an artist looking for inspiration, this book can reallygive you a whack in the side of the head that will send you running to yourpaints.Even if you're not an artist, you'll enjoy the gorgeous colors andwide, wild variety of subjects and techniques.An astonishing book andwell worth the price. ... Read more

Product Description
Painting portraits in watercolours is a difficult practice which requires great control, good drafting ability and knowledge of the small forms and planes that make up the face. Aimed at intermediate to advanced watercolour painters, this guide to portrait painting demonstrates how to structure a painting and emphasizes the importance of the elements and principles of design. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

One of the BEST books about watercolour portaits
How this book has ever been allowed to go out of print is a mystery.. 2nd hand copies are fetching a fortune on Amazonand in art book shops around the world which says a lot about how highly thought of it is in watercolour painting circles.
Alex Powers has a freedom with the brush that is envy of most painters and in this book he teaches the basic principles of his unique design approach to his art.
An absolute MUST for any aspiring watercolour portrait painter.

alex powers/painting people in watercolor
Thank you for being upfront, honest and truthful about the description of this wonderful book. I have no complaints, only complements in quality, prompt mailing, and good old fashion mailing packaging,(the box that held the book was hand made from another cardboard box!)Also, this book was bought for Sarah, who recommends this book on how to paint people using watercolor, highly.
A wonderful book from this artist using portraits emitting expression,facial gesture and background.

Wow! Get this Book!
I did watercolor portraits for a Level I college class. Samples of Powers works were in the book recommended for the course, of which I did not get until the course was over. After getting the book, "Everything you ever wanted to know about Watercolor," I was so intrigued with Powers work that I had to get this book.

"Painting People in Watercolor" is a very thorough book. Powers covers all the design elements and principles of painting and gives examples of each. His style of combining realism with abstraction and the way that he works his portraits in with the backgrounds makes his work both interesting and powerful. My original style was totally representational and I never new what to do with the background. Thanks to Alex Powers I have found a new way to paint that I am very excited about.

If you have any interest in painting watercolor portraits with power, movement and emotion, do miss out on getting this book. I read it twice before I painted another portrait and my work has much more vigor. I'll read this book over and over as I continue to paint.

My all-time favorite art book
I happen to like paintings that are not completely realistic and that take advantage of techniques such as using unpainted white paper as highlights. I also like artwork that has lots of lost edges, for example a leg blending into the background and your mind has to fill in the line of the leg. I don't care for 100% realism (take a photo), but I am not a fan of completely abstract paintings either. The point is that I already know what I like and don't like, and you too probably have some idea as to what you like and don't like.

Alex Powers breaks down the different design components of art and shows how he emphasizes the components of value and line to create his art work. However, he encourages you not to just copy his style but to find those components of art (line, color, value, edges, shape, etc.) that appeal to you and make your own artwork by emphasizing them. It is his discussion of the these different components and their relationship to one another that makes this book invaluable. For example, if you want to emphasize the use of value then you should deemphasize color. In this book Alex Powers explains why and covers many other similar design considerations.

The text of this book is fabulous and should appeal to any artist. However, I found the text to be a bonus, as the truth is that I bought the book because I liked the pictures (lost edges, etc.). Although, like a previous reviewer, I don't believe the cover is represtative of the work found inside.

Can be used for all media
Well rounded approach that can be used in painting in all media.Although his approach is primarily realistic, the principals work well with abstract and non-objective subjects also. ... Read more

Product Description
"Let Mel Stabin teach and inspire you to follow his "Big Three" watercolor concepts and go beyond technical proficiency in your painting: simplicity is a powerful force; the worth of your painting does not depend on how long it took to paint it; and clarity of thought and emotion are essential in art."--BOOK JACKET. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (16)

well done book
Love the book....hard to get because it is now out of print. Easy to read.
Now... the rest is up to you!

Nice Book
Ive read some books that its just too complicated for my level to follow. This book is simple and fun.

One of the very best
If you love loose and juicy watercolor painting, you'll love this book.
It is filled with goodies, wonderful paintings and demos on how they were done. I have many books on the subject and this one ranks as one of my favorites. Landscapes and portraits all done with great flair
and a very high level of drawing skill. There is some similarity in style and approach to my other favorite watercolor artist, Charles Reid.
Mel Stabin is the real deal,very inspiring work of the highest order. Buy this book, you'll love it.

A Five Star Book-Very Inspirational!
This excellent book is throughly deserving of its 5 star rating. The reproductions of Stabin's watercolors (150 of them) are beautiful. The text is clear and interesting. This is not a Step one-two-three book for beginners, although I think novices would enjoy it. Intermediate and advanced painters should definitely add it to their art libraries.

Excellent book for artists
This is an excellent book for not only water colorists but for all artists...I had to pick up courage to paint in a loose style for years...after going through this book, I attempted loose painting in water color and other media...the approach of "simple,fast,focussed' is indeed essential learning for an artist...Another book that can go with this is Kimon Nicolaides on" The Natural Way to draw"...these two books can let you free and bold in the world of fine art---drawing &painting... ... Read more

Product Description
The definitive, buyers guide to watercolor paints, Hilary Page's Guide to Watercolor Paints, will SAVE YOU MONEY because you will avoid buying duplicate paints. The Guide will enable you to buy the best paints possible for your individual needs and budget.The Guide rates each paint according to the "Ten Desirable Paint Qualities" including lightfastness with visual samples of nearly 1, 500 paints from the following brands: Winsor & Newton, Daniel Smith, Schmincke, Fragonard Pebeo, Rowney, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Old Holland, Sennelier, Grumbacher, Blockx, M.C. Graham, Academy, Impellist Sakura, Da Vinci, Shiva, Georgian, Cotman, Maimeri, and Koi Sakura;plus brief information on Yarka, Pelican, Lukas, Pentel, Linel, and Niji. A comprehensive Master Triangle of paints and pigments serves as a key to the book and the complete manufacturer's paint index makes the Guide very user friendly. Hilary Page's Guide to Watercolor Paints also provides "Convenience Lists" that tabulate staining, textural, transparent, opaque and two-tone paints together with suggested palettes. The Guide gives useful information on pigments including toxicity, the latest ASTM ratings and reflectance curves for quantifiable color information. The illustrated, historical background makes for entertaining and informative reading. As an added bonus the Guide now comes with regular Updates at the Hilary Page website- This address is given at the front of each book. The update covers paints that have been upgraded or introduced since publication, from the following brands: American Journey, Cotman (17 paints), Holbein (24 paints) MaimeriBlu, and Venezia. You can store the Updates within the covers of the Guide ... Read more

Customer Reviews (15)

A must for serious watercolor painters
Hilary Page's "Guide to Watercolor Paints" is an absolute must-have for any serious watercolor artist.The book explains the characteristics of individual pigments, the combination of pigments and other components of the paints sold by virtually all the major manufacturers, and discusses the difference between student and professional grades (and which brands provide which grade).Then the options for each color are compared in such a way as to show not only each paint's overall appearance on paper but its behavior when applied wet-into-wet.The author also provides not only the manufacturer's permanence rating but her own (based on her own light-fastness tests) and an overall rating.She also provides a few key examples of how various pigments typically interact with others.

Because there is continual change in the availability of pigments and paints, as well as new brands, which can quickly cause any book to become outdated, the author provides updates on her website [...] to provide more recent information.The updates cannot stand alone; but you can rely on the book to provide a good, in-depth starting point, covering most of the currently available options.

Serious artists will quickly recoup the cost of this book by making better-informed decisions on the selection and purchase of paints, avoiding the losers and homing in on only the best alternatives for their purposes.

Good Giude
In a world of different branded watercolor paint there is nearly too much to choose from, this book helps you get the paint that's lightfast and/or special in other ways. Hilary has made a great job wich really helps.

Hilary Page's
'Guide to watercolor paints' is one of the best books I have ever read on color. Never will you have to buy any brand of color and not know what its made of. From Manufacture to color its all here...

I am giving myself three pats on the back for buying this bookand Hilary Page, ten star's for writing it!! Nancy

Review of Hilary Page's Guide to Watercolor Paints
I recently purchased Page's Guide and I'm delighted that I did.Firstly, the book came autographed and with several appended additions to information.Page's dedication to accuracy and clarity is impressive.Secondly, the book has a remarkable amount of information about all the brands of watercolor paint available in the U.S. relating to lightfastness, transparency, granularity, opacity, and so on, and the colors are actually shown in the book.Unlike other writers of watercolor paint guides, she uses all the colors in her book, which makes it sigificantly more interesting to review and read.Lastly, I take painting lessons from a nationally-known artist who has also published books relating to watercolor painting and color, and she recommends Page's book over others.I had already purchased Page's book, so I was thrilled to hear another expert give it praise.
I rate Page's Guide with four stars because I believe there is always more we can know about art, and Page may decide there's a more detailed edition she needs to publish, and also because actual publication printing inks are not as accurate in depicting colors as seeing the actual watercolor paint on watercolor paper.But for anyone contemplating purchasing Page's Guide, I highly recommend it.

AWESOME RESOURCE
I've read dozens of books on watercolor pigments. This is by FAR the best out there. Complete and unbiased information on all the leading manufactures pigments. This is the only book I keep on my studio desk with me at all times. ... Read more

Product Description
A remarkable collection of American drawings and watercolors from one of the leading university museums in the United States

The Princeton University Art Museum’s collection of American drawings and watercolors is impressive in both scope and quality, providing a comprehensive overview of the nation’s artistic traditions. This lavishly illustrated book highlights seventy-seven master drawings and watercolors chosen from the museum’s extensive collection. The selections, which range from the eighteenth century to the present, are by such eminent American artists as Benjamin West, Winslow Homer, Thomas Eakins, Mary Cassatt, Andrew Wyeth, Georgia O’Keeffe, Lee Bontecou, and Tom Wesselmann. A group of outstanding works by Hudson River School and Ash Can artists also distinguishes the collection.

Each of the selected drawings and watercolors is reproduced in full color and is accompanied by an in-depth catalogue entry. The book also features an introduction by John Wilmerding describing Princeton’s history of collecting American art, as well as an essay by Kathleen A. Foster on the historiography of American drawings and watercolors. A useful checklist of the Museum’s entire collection of over 1,300 American drawings and watercolors, selectively illustrated in color, concludes the book.

This beautiful and informative volume clearly demonstrates that the holdings of the Princeton University Art Museum represent an extraordinary resource for students, scholars, and those with a love of American art and art history.

This book accompanies an exhibition on view at the Princeton University Art Museum (October 16, 2004, to January 9, 2005); the Musée d’Art Américain, Giverny, France (Spring 2005); and the High Museum of Art, Atlanta (Spring 2006).

John Wilmerding is Christopher Binyon Sarofim ‘86 Professor of American Art in the Department of Art and Archaeology at Princeton University and visiting curator in the Department of American Art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art; Kathleen A. Foster is Robert L. McNeil, Jr., Curator of American Art at the Philadelphia Art Museum; Robert T. Cozzolino is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Art History, University of Wisconsin-Madison; Laura M. Giles is curator of prints and drawings at the Princeton University Art Museum; Mark D. Mitchell is assistant curator, National Academy of Design, New York; and Diana Tuite is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Art and Archaeology, Princeton University.
... Read more

Product Description
Ray Campbell Smith shows how to capture the freshness and beauty of watercolours and a wonderful range of buildings in his own distinctive style. He explains all his techniques clearly, from the initial planning and composition of a picture, to choosing colours, applying washes and portraying the different effects of age and weathering. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

This is an educational book.
I am quite satisfied with the whole procedure for this book.It was sent timely.The condition was like new.I have no hesitation in buying from this outlet again.
The paperback book is Trade sized and it is pretty well packed with ideas about watercolor painting.If I learned only one good insight then this purchase would be worth while.As it is, this is a book that I will mine.I am very glad I bought it. ... Read more

Product Description
Beginners are introduced both to cake and tube water-based pigments and are instructed on methods of applying and controlling their colors as they paint on different grades of wet and dry paper. Following a number of practical still life and landscape projects, they are invited to analyze three watercolor masterpieces by the great English landscape artist John Constable. The books also make fine instruction manuals for teachers in beginning art classes. Each book opens with descriptions and illustrations of materials the students will require, including pigments, a variety of brushes, and additional equipment. Sections that follow give basic instruction on different methods of applying pigments to paper or canvas to produce different effects and textures for different purposes. Several projects are then presented in order of increasing difficulty, with special attention first to still lifes, and then to landscapes. The concluding page of each book describes a master artist who excelled in the medium being taught, and shows representative illustrations of several of his masterpieces. Volumes in this series are printed in full color throughout and are filled with photos and illustrations on every page. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Excellent product and service. TKU
The book was just what I was seeking, in excellent condition and with very good delivery time. TKU ... Read more

Product Description
How to capture the effects of light and shadow in thirty three step-by-step demonstrations. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

It's a Splash!
Liz Donovin is not only a beautiful artist, she's an excellent teacher.Istudy watercolors exclusively, and mostly from books.Her examples andcolor diagrams are truly worth a thousand words each, and her text istightly knit into lines of priceless information, insight and instruction. Liz generously shares her secrets of mastering light, texture, and color. That's just for starters.I could go on and on. My husband ordered thebook as a gift for me, under the condition I take my twice borrowed,overdue copy back to the library before I put us into hock!I did returnit...but it was a long farewell!Thanks Liz, and BRAVA!

It's a Splash!
Liz Donovin is not only a beautiful artist, she's an excellent teacher.Istudy watercolors exclusively, and mostly from books.Her examples andcolor diagrams are truly worth a thousand words each, and her text istightly knit into lines of priceless information, insight and instruction. Liz generously shares her secrets of mastering light, texture, and color. That's just for starters.I could go on and on. My husband ordered thebook as a gift for me, under the condition I take my twice borrowed,overdue copy back to the library before I put us into hock!I did returnit...but it was a long farewell!Thanks Liz, and BRAVA!

It's a Splash!
Liz Donovan's understanding of color, texture, and the moods of light isremarkable.She's an excellent teacher.Her own work is beautiful andinspiring to say the least.Liz shares her tricks and secrets of detail indiagrams and pictures that truly are worth a thousand words.She's also awizard with words, by the way, very easy to follow her. Enjoythis master artist!This book is a joy, and my husband is making it agift..When it arrives, the library can have their (twice borrowed/overdue)copy back...but not before!It's worth every cent!Brava, Liz Donovan!

A must have book for watercolor enthusiasts.
In my opinion, Liz Donovan is an outstanding watercolor artist.I love the emotion that she captures with each painting.Just looking through her book, inspires me to paint.Throughout the book she gives multiple tips oncreating that perfect look.This book is a good choice for the still lifeartist who wants to try his/her hand at watercolor.

Wonderfull Book For Still Life Painters
This is a wonderful book. After discussing the materials and some basicwatercolor techniques the following chapters provide demonstration projectsto apply the techniques. Ms. Donovan's paintings are a nice balance betweenwashy-style watercolors and hyper-realistic.

She really shines on thedemonstrations of painting reflective surfaces such as silver, glass orbrass and also woodgrain and marble (which was a wonderful surprise sinceI'd never seen marble discussed before in any other watercolor book Iown).

She also discusses composition, the effect of lighting and set upof your own still lifes for maximum impact.

I have done several of theprojects and plan to do all of them. My own paintings have improved sinceapplying the concepts and techniques the book demonstrates. ... Read more

Product Description
"Light values and shapes are the two essential elements of painting.These two values enable us to see and feel the space, form, structure, perspective and texture around us."Author and artist Chinkok Tan has developed an easy-to-teach and easy-to-learn method for painting watercolor that will allow anyone to achieve good results with a minimum of study time.

Tan combines his clear teaching on seeing color values in light with an equally clear and simple teaching on seeing shapes properly. His three-step painting process develops the form of an object by adding shade and detail, while still keeping the process simple for the beginner. This method eliminates the need for complicated courses in drawing, anatomy, perspective and color theory.

* Helps simplify the process of watercolor painting without simplifying the results
* Teaches how to paint directly and immediately using shapes and light valuesAmazon.com Review
Chinkok Tan has painted and taught for more than 40 years. In Watercolor Basics: Shape and Light Value, he shows the art student how to see and simplify one's subjects. Tan suggests that every subject "reveals itself in light values and shapes. When you finish this book, you should be able to paint anything without sketching." An introduction to supplies provides the tools needed to get started for under 80 dollars, and a primer on techniques describes painting sources and how to lay a flat wash. Tan begins his lessons by explaining light values (color) and how to mix them. He teaches the painter to abandon outlining one's subjects and to instead focus on painting correct shapes and silhouettes. He then presents a three-step process of painting shape, shade, and detail; how to use higher or lower values for varying effects; and how to build harmonious compositions. The book closes with complete step-by-step painting demonstrations. Tan's method is simple, straightforward, and easy to grasp, yet he achieves surprisingly sophisticated and refreshing painted effects, as in the waxy sheen of green and red apples poised in a luminous glass bowl. Tan asserts, "I can say with absolute certainty that painting is a skill anybody with interest can learn. It has nothing to do with talent or gift." This book of basic techniques is ideal for the beginning painter, but will also prove of benefit to more experienced artists who wish to revisit fundamental lessons of perception and "trusting the eye." --Mary Ribesky ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Straightforward and clearly stated...
Love the simplicity of its approach to delineating shape and light.A plus addition to my how to library. ... Read more

Product Description
Sumi-e is the classic painting style of Japan, and its graceful simplicity is admired around the world. A natural follow-up to the best-selling The Sumi-e Book, The Sumi-e Dream Book demonstrates how to take the classic brushstrokes of sumi-e to a new level of painting, where creativity is inspired by deeply felt memories and spiritual expression. First, sumi-e artist Yolanda Mayhall provides a brief history and explains the philosophy behind this classic Japanese painting style. She highlights its many masters, one of them her ancient mentor the master brush painter, woodblock, and dream journey artist Hokosai. Next, she reviews the classic materials and the basic brushstrokes of sumi-e known as the Four Gentlemen: Bamboo, Wild Orchid, Chrysanthemum, and Plum Branch, along with their variations. Finally, Mayhall puts it all together to demonstrate the sumi-e art of dream journey painting. Readers will learn a variety of creative and exciting techniques for using color to add a delightful dimension to the sumi-e image as well as discover exciting techniques for visually capturing important life memories and spiritual reflections in a painting. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Beautiful artwork
The illustrations in this book are so striking and lovely in their simplicity that you will not be able to put this book down. This particular technique is like eye candy and you will want to rip out the pictures and frame them! THe instructions are clear, a list of supplies is given and also sources as to where to get them.
A very nice book for the artist.

The Semi-e Dream book
Its ok but I thought it was going to be more step by step and its not.Good book thow.

A Bit Shallow
Very nice pictures and some good description on Sumi-e dreamjourney painting.However, as an artist looking for more detailed explanations on techniques, I was quite disappointed.If I was just interested in general ideas on this type of painting the book would be great, but as an artist I was disappointed in the way the material was presented.For example, loading the brush was glossed over.

Good paintings, but not sumi-e
This book might be interesting as some artistic approach to make paintings. the paintings are not bad. But they are not sumi-e. They are rather aquarelle, that mimics eastern paintings.
IMHO the key thing, that makes Yolanda paintings look different is her technique of brushstokes, which are very typical to the western aquarelle school. The original sumi-e brushstrokes are based on brushstokes of chinese (well, and japanese as well) calligraphy, and this is one of the characteristics that variate paintings of differnt masters.

Still, the book text is a good transcription of sumi-e/brush painting concept. Just for the painting examples I'd suggest to look at the works of the "original" artists.

A real "dream" for those interested in Sumi-e Painting

Being an afficionado of Chinese Brush painting, I was intrigued when I first saw this book. I'm not easily impressed by art books, and I've reviewed hundreds over the years, but this is one of those books that actually surprised me. It really is a dream for artists intersted in the brush painting of China and Japan. Here's why...

Mayhall's style is both beautiful and spontaneous, and the imagery in this book is breathtaking.What is really refreshing about this book, however, is that it isn't just another *how to* brush technique book. While she does go into great detail on history, materials, technique, and subject matter, the artist puts you into the mindset of a Sumi-e artist. Rather than simply show her readers "how" to paint, Mayhall encourages them to begin their own journey into Sumi-e "dream" painting, and equips them with the knowledge necessary to find their own artistic voice. She states, "it is not only the subject that gives life to art, it is the spirit that is within the artist's genius." Well said!

Material covered in this text includes:
* Chapter 1 - A Brief History of Sumi-e
* Chapter 2 - Studying the Dream Journey Painters of China and Japan
* Chapter 3 - Starting on Your Own Dream Journey (tools, brush strokes)
* Chapter 4 - Practicing the Four Gentlemen (bamboo, wild orchid, chrysanthemum, plum branch)
* Chapter 5 - Beginning the Creative Process (incorporating the four gentlemen)
* Chapter 6 - Learning Advanced Brush Strokes for Birds & Flowers (Yo birds, iris, hummingbirds & its flowers)
* Chapter 7 - Internalizing the Three Essential Elements of Sumi-e (creativity, composition, color)
* Chapter 8 - Planning the Journey (sketching, structure, Exploring new techniques, beginning your dream journey)
* Chapter 9 - Dreaming (more ideas & demonstrations)
* Chapter 10 - Enhancing Your Dream Paintings (calligraphy)

If you're interested in the brush painting style of China and Japan, or would like to incorporate these techniques into your watercolor and/or ink painting, I recommend this book along with "Chinese Painting Techniques for Exquisite Watercolors" by Lian Quan Zhen... two excellent books to inspire you and bring your own artistic dreams to life. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (5)

Watercolor for the first time
Beautiful book containing great information about watercoloring.You get a lot of tips on what tools to buy, colors to use, how to use the required brushes, etc.Book also offers several to-do projects.

My one objection is that projects offered throughout the book are on the difficult side - beginners need very simple paintings to gain confidence and experience.

joey watercolorist
This book was an easy read.It was clear and concise.The instructions and photos were very helpful. Good book for beginners.

Great ideas and clear instruction...
"Watercolor for the first time" is a beautiful how-to for the beginning watercolor artist.The book is divided into the following 4 sections:

Section 1: Getting Started
Section 2: The Basics
Section 3: Beyond the Basics
Section 4: The Gallery

The book begins by providing the reader with instruction on what tools to use (specifically, which brushes, what kind of paints and colors and what other materials are necessary).Next, the author instructs the reader on basic techniques, including how to create basic washes, controlled washes and how to add detail to one's paintings.Beyond that, the book provides the reader with instruction on how to complete specific projects- such as a black-and-white painting, how to capture difficult material in one's painting (such as drapery or glass) and how to use masking fluid to show crisp, white space.

All of the instruction in this book is accompanied with large, glossy pictures and clear, concise explanations.The format of the book is nicely done and not overwhelming to someone just starting out.

Section 4 is particularly notable- as Mr. Fluckiger presents a gallery of his beautiful paintings.His style is quite impressive- as he is able to bring an inspiring and unique realism to watercolor.

I highly recommend this book!

A Must Have
I absolutely love this book. It is so well explained, with so many details. He tells you which brushes to use and when to change them. The pictures are amazing. This is truly a keeper. You can buy this book without any reservations, there will be no regrets, I garanty it.

Great for learning
This book is beautiful.Mr. Fluckiger's artwork is a joy to look at. The instruction extends from very basic, what products to buy and where to find them, to more complex techniques.
I have enjoyed painting greeting cards and small pictures, while my father, whom I gave this book as a gift, was inspired to paint our family home in watercolors.The results have been fun as well as beautiful.We would never have attempted these works without the inspiration provided by this book.
I recommend it to anyone with even a slight interest in dappling with watercolors.
... Read more

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Customer Reviews (5)

As a animation background painter, this book is very valuable . . . needs more color though
This book is definitely made for a mid level to advance painters. As an animation background painter, I found this book to be very useful and although relatively old, the information was still very relevant. At first glance, I was a little disappointed in the lack of color, (there are some pages with color/ final painting reproductions, but most of the book is in b&w) but upon reading the text and following the examples, this book ultimately makes you focus on the composition, values, and distinct shapes that characterizes types of trees, before a painter jumps headlong into color. There is so much statement coming from the way Ted Kautzky utilizes lines, values, and brush strokes. Every piece looks like it came out of an animated movie. It's great study for mood, too. It's one of those books that doesn't look like much at first, but you'll come to treasure later on, after you make a breakthrough with your painting.

I purchased this book based on reviews
I couldn't agree less with the 3 people who rate this book highly.I have many good/some not so good watercolor guide books on all subjects, and wanted one for trees and landscapes.Compared to the other 40 books I have in my art library this one ranks at the bottom.Sorry!The black and white photos that are not clearly captured, and the lack of modern day paint color ideas make this one not a good buy as a reference guide, in my opinion.Somethings just need to be retired or labeled as history. I often use the opinions of others who have read the book to determine it's value.This one was a miss, and I surely hope those looking for good reference guide for watercolor painting to be aware. Sam Mascia

A great book on painting trees
Ted's book on painting trees is full of information that any artist should find a big help. Money well spent on a book written some years ago will still be usefull today.

Watercolor Manuals
This book was a gift to a watercolorist friend.She was most impressed with the contents.

Wonderful watercolor book
It is a little advanced for the beginner. His watercolor technique is wonderful.Great for reference especially trees. Great for any watercolorist library. ... Read more