Leonardo's Advice to Artist

Reading this book will help to reveal one of the biggest secrets of western civilization: that the Mona Lisa is a self-portrait by cross-dressing Leonardo Da Vinci. The book doesn't actually come out and say that, but reading the master's advice, in between the lines, you can easily figure it out. In particular, Leonardo states that no two faces are exactly the same. Compare, then, the faces of Mona Lisa, with his own "official" self-portraits. Take away the beard, apply a mirror reversal. Viola! The master reveals his true inner nature, which is the goal of painting, teaches Da Vinci. What a joker, that Leonardo, always playing elaborate hoaxes. Good thing he bright his masterpiece to France, otherwise the Vatican might have gotten their paws on that painting.

Leonardo da Vinci was truly a great artist, even though he didn't leave behind that many works of art. This little book, however, points out all the areas of observation that an artist needs to be aware of. These points are not taught in art classes. Most artists come by these pointers and tips after many long years of trial and error. Artists are visual problem solvers. And excellent observation skills are critical to being a successful artist. I have read and reread parts of the book when I make my studies, and it has been tremendously helpful.