This is the ideal introductory book for anyone with an interest in learning how to paint with oils, acrylic, and gouache. Advice is given on choosing and using paints, brushes, palettes, papers, and canvas, and on working with paint additives and sealing work with different types of varnish.

The basic techniques are demonstrated, from scaling up a photograph, making an underdrawing, and blending colors on the palette, to applying paint with various brush strokes and applicators. Different paint techniques are shown, such as alla prima, scumbling, sponging, spattering, drybrush, sgraffito, and impasto.

Popular subject areas are covered, from landscapes and nature to still lives. 30 practice exercises and techniques teach through example – paint an Italian country scene, anemones in all prima style, and studies of watermelons, fall leaves, pumpkins, a teapot, and seashells.

Concisely written, beautifully illustrated with over 400 photographs, and packed with techniques this book contains everything you need to know to get started in painting.

Book specifications: paperback, 96 pgs., 9 in. x 11 1/2 in.
Publisher: Southwater, 2005.