Oil Painter's Solution Book - Landscapes: Over 100 Answers to Your Oil Painting Questions

Of the 63 art books in my library, this is the best I've run into. It's to the point with skilled illustrations. By isolating one principle at a time and giving examples, it makes it easy for the reader to grasp the issue. It also isn't full of self-serving comments. Too many art books go into the soul searching and emotional aspect of painting. But not all people the same feelings, and this makes the verbiage unnecessary. Another plus is the binding. The ring binding means you don't have to crack the book spine to keep it open. This book is perfect for the artist who wants to-the-point instruction that includes problem solving. I'm recommending it to the students in my classes. Frankly, it's the best I've seen.

This book is expertly written by Elizabeth Tolley, an experienced art teacher who is also a well-known professional artist. It is certainly the easiest handbook to use for students as well as intermediate painters. Designed to be taken out in the field, this is a sturdy, spiral-bound book that explains the outdoor painting method in easy to understand text. Moreover, the critical steps of each lesson are illustrated in full color throughout the book. The spiral binding takes half the space of ordinary books and allows you to see the page you are studying as you paint. This remarkable book takes the intimidation out of the challenge of painting "en plein air." Read this book first, and then go paint outdoor landscapes!

I bought this book because of the art work I have seen in the past by the author. I am a very big fan of her landscapes. They are wonderful. I am not a fan of how-to art books. Most seem to be written by artists looking to improve their C.V. Tolley's book is a nice suprise. There was not any superfluous info. The topics are presented with out b.s., in other words, she gets to the point. On everything from composition to color selection. The lay out is very clear and the design of the book is nice in that it is a hard bound spiral. Nice touch. The book is a little smaller than I like, but it still works. The best how-to book is still Richard Schmid's Alla Prima, but this one will add alot to ones quiver.

I am a neophyte oil painter who paints for a few weeks and then stops. Elizabeth Tolley's book gives me the inspiration to start again and NOT stop. Her book begins with the real basics and definitions of each tool to use and WHY. The question and answer format allows me to easily find and review a topic I need help with. I finally feel that I can mix colors with a new understanding and make my own canvas panels following the clear and easy instructions illustrated with great photos. The book dissects, in the most understandable way, color and composition. I'm sure that more experienced painters could also learn from Ms. Tolley. The book is filled with "tricks of the trade". BRAVO. Excuse me, I'm about to go out in "plein air" with renewed enthusiasm! Elisabeth Sarrow

I've been painting outside for a couple years and this book really addresses the important issues. Right now I am studying her approach to learning to be really aware of values. She makes it easy to get a real grasp on seeing that. Ms Tolley has a tremendous knowledge of plein air painting and is very generous in sharing. For example when painting water, paint the reflections first because they will likely change soon. She gives great detail as to her approach. The spiral easily allows you to open to a certain page and just lay the book flat. The book has a plasticized cover so you could actually take it into the field and study it while you paint. I really like her basic palette and I feel like I am making significant steps forward in remembering color mixtures because of her approach. She covers the basics and way beyond. I am learning so much!