Outstanding and fun! Wonderful lessons
This is a beginners book for learning to paint landscapes in watercolor. I am very impressed by the content and teaching methods, and the progressive exercises and "projects" . Although it is designed for beginners, the exercises are unlike some beginner painting books, as the projects are very beautiful and exciting. Each lesson advances in skills. At the beginning and middle parts of this book, the lessons are based on how to paint specific parts of a landscape such as clouds, water, trees, buildings, etc.
By taking small steps at a time, the "student/reader" gains confidence in the skills taught, and does not become overwhelmed. I think this a perfect book for someone who wants to learn watercolor. Each page has between 3 to 6 photos of what to do, accompanied by clear instructions for that step.
Here is an overview of the books contents:
After the usual introduction about painting materials, basic painting techniques are taught with stepped instructions and photos to accompany them. Then, brush techniques and masking methods. Next, composition is covered in two pages--just enough to help you, but not enough to overwhelm you. Next, Perspective--linear & aerial.
Next, 4 pages on color--just enough to get you started. The author states, " To help you create natural colours quickly, I have suggested blow af few colour mixes for the most popular landscape subjects..."---this book is great, because the author takes complicated issues, and simplifies it for the beginner to get started and enjoy. Cool vs. warm is covered.
Next, PROJECT I: Skies and clouds-- exercise I: Cirrus Clouds-- aone page, 3-steps, w/ accompanying pictures. Exercise 2: rainclouds--3-steps, 1 page, Exercise 3: sunset--5 steps, 1 page, PROJECT 2: Water--Exercise 1: Reflections in water--3-steps 1 page, Exercise 2: waterfall Exercise 3: rough sea--6 steps, 2 pages
Next, a Moody Sea project--the author gives you a list of colors needed, brushes, paper, then proceeds with a 4-page, 8-step instructional.
Next, Mountains and Lakes--covering tonal recession exercise, mountain structure, followed by 5-step exercise in Misty Mountains....
I have just given a small portion of what is covered in this book and how it is organized and presented. By the end of the book, the projects have you painting much more complicated and beautiful scenes. It's an oustanding book that does not overwhelm a beginner, but also builds confidence as you go. Great book!
