Modern Watercolor by Kristen Van Leuven

Tags

art, how to, non-fiction, painting

As I’ve mentioned before, I came late to art and I am trying my best to improve my skills in various media, especially watercolours. I was pleased to learn about Ms. Van Leuven’s modern take on watercolour painting and was keen to give it a go. I wasn’t disappointed.

His book isn’t for you if you have watercolour painting experience, but for a complete novice like me, it was just the ticket. The author takes us from the very basics of what materials to use, colour mixing and papers, right through to how to paint florals, landscapes and some animals, all with a modern, fresh look.

If you are a watercolour newbie, I can heartily recommend this bright, cheerful and instructive book.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Anytime, Anywhere Art: Watercolour by Barbara Roth

Tags

art, drawing, how to, non-fiction, painting

I’m fairly new to art and am always in the lookout for new books to help me hone my skills. Roth’ book was very inviting and I was pleased to work my way through.

First, the good points.

There is loads of advice on the materials and equipment one needs to get out and work outside.

Ms. Roth explains clearly how she approaches her art. She takes us through several paintings from initial sketch to how she mixed her colours and where to apply them. But oh my, those colours…

The garish choice of unnatural looking colours made me wince. This is probably down to personal taste, but the Eiffel Tower isn’t pink, and I found Ms Ruth’s style more illustrative rather than painterly.

However, this is a fun book with much good advice in it and well worth a look.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.