The Artist's Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Drawing, Watercolor, and Oil Painting

Read it cover to cover Intriguing, fascinating, inspiring I can think of nothing that wasn't included Perfect way to get familiar with the ropes Or as in my case, techniques reviewed!

Different versions of the book should be listed separately. It is highly misleading when the descriptions, listings and reviews of one version of the books are all listed together in one listing. I got a different book with a different content. Beware of the absolute title you are getting.

I'm incredibly impressed with this book. Anyone with a twinkling of creativity could pick it up and begin almost anything. I found this in a bookstore and vowed I would own it. It's beautifully photographed and illustrated as one might expect, but often can't find in art guides. The text is right on the money. In my opinion it's the most comprehensive guide out there and it doesn't just cater to beginners, which is why I was so taken with it. I've been dabbling in the arts since I could walk and wanted something that might cover some of the mediums that I haven't experimented with yet. The chapters are divided into: Supports, Drawing Media, Painting Media, Color and Composition, Subjects and Themes, The Studio, Reference. I was especially impressed with the Reference section, as this was one of the first general art guides I'd found that carried health and safety info as well as a list of suppliers. The artwork examples in each of the sections are really well chosen. If I were an art teacher, I would make this text required reading material. It's intelligently written without being dry, boring, or patronizing. And never overly simplistic--a huge bonus if you're tired of pat-on-the-head guides.

I have thumbed through many an art technique book, and have found many lacking. This one is great! Not only is it a feast for the eyes with gorgeous illustrations, but I learned things I never even heard of before! It is a wonderful way to introduce yourself to many different mediums and how to use them, including oils, watercolore, acrylic, gouache, colored pencil, glazing, ink... and plenty more...Very, very helpful. I read it all the time. A valuable overview of art technique and all the goodies available at your local art supply. I love this book!

This manual is essential and practical, the informative text is very clear, it has hundreds explanations about techniques, composition, color, artist's materials and tools. And also is superbly ilustrated. If you are a professional artist so improve your knowledge with this book, if you are a beginner, here is everything you need to start your work.

I am an adult who recently decided to venture into the world of art. I happened upon this book and after rifling through it, decided to buy it. It has been invaluable to someone like me, who knew nothing about supports (canvas, paper, etc.), and the different painting and drawing mediums. It's a great starter book!