Here’s a listing of books I have found very useful for students. They are highly practical, based on tried and true methods of learning to draw and paint.
Essentials:
This is my latest book. and though it’s geared towards painting portraits, the principles equally apply to non-portrait work. [asa]1600581943[/asa] John Sanden recommended this book to me when I was studying in NYC years ago. The lessons from artist David Leffel are timeless, especially the importance of having a concept at the outset of your work. Can’t recommend it enough! [asa]0823032795[/asa] This classic by Harold Speed is the first book Richard Lack had me read during my studies with him. Of particular note are the chapters on Line and Mass. [asa]0486228703[/asa] Impressionist Henry Hensche had a huge impact on the way I see. This book by his teacher, Charles Hawthorne, captures the essence of understanding color. [asa]048620653X[/asa]Practical application:
John Carlson’s book is indispensable for those painting the landscape. As practical as it gets. [asa]0486229270[/asa] Lois Griffel, a friend and incredible artist from my P-town days, gives practical lessons on the teachings of Hawthorne and Hensche. [asa]0823095193[/asa] Thirty years ago, my father gave me his copy of Henri’s book (I have yet to return it!). Henri truly captures much of the way we artists think. It’s not a book on how to paint, but rather it encourages and inspires me, and reminds me to be grateful for the gift God has given me. [asa]0465002633[/asa] Vanderpoel’s book is excellent for those drawing the figure. It’s not an anatomy book, but more akin to a teacher pointing out the beautiful nuances that are so essential to drawings that reflect the sensitivity of an artist truly paying attention. This is a great companion to anatomy books (listed below). [asa]0486204324[/asa]Anatomy books:
Knowing the essentials of what lies beneath the skin is absolutely essential to good figure and portrait work. These books will guide you. I haven’t found one book that has it all, but each of these helps you understand and visualize the skeleton, tendons, and muscles that give you the form that you see.
[asa]0486227073[/asa] [asa]0195030958[/asa] [asa]0823002977[/asa] [asa]0823002810[/asa]Artists:
Visit the museums to study the works by these artists. I’ve listed books as I discover them.
Cecilia Beaux Giovanni Boldini William Merit Chase Frederic Edwin Church Leonardo daVinci Edgar Degas Cedric Egeli Nicolai Fechin Winslow Homer David Leffel Antonio Mancini Édouard Manet Claude Monet Sir William Orpen Rembrandt van Rijn Norman Rockwell Peter Paul Rubens John Singer Sargent Richard Schmid Joaquin Sorolla Diego Velázquez Anders Zorn [asa]0486245241[/asa] [asa]0876332548[/asa]
