Reviews (7)

Outstanding book on composition for painting & photography
I avoided this book just because I was suspicious of the title, there are no secrets, just information.But I finally gave in and ordered it because everyone is talking about it and they say it is that good.I had it on my bookshelf for a while when I was reviewing another book on photography and one reviewer recommended this book (Simple Secret to Better Painting).I'm a painter and a photographer, both amateur, and was suprised to see a photographer recommending it.So I took it with me on a weekend trip.
Excellent
I love this book.It is an excellent presentation, simply and clearly presented.I'm an inexperienced painter and I found it to be very helpful and fun to work with.

Great book
After taking this book out of the library several times, I decided to buy it. It is a fabulous book for begining to intermediate oil painters that want to take their work to the next level. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Art & Art Instruction    3. Color in art    4. Composition (Art)    5. Painting    6. Technique    7. Techniques - General    8. Techniques - Painting    9. Visual perception    10. Art techniques & principles    11. Painting & paintings   

Reviews (4)

The Good 'n Bad
The Good:
it's alright
okay this is my first review ever so hang in there with me alright?Now I purchesed this book "How to Draw Manga: Ultimate Lessons vol. 1" mainly because I like the other HtDM books and I wanted to see what this had to offer me.When the book came I was expecting it to be as big as the other HtDM books.Boy was I wrong!it was as thick as the others but the hight and with were 'shorter' none the less the content of the book itself prooved to be of some help.The book itself starts off with the begining mini comic or 'manga' if you will then the table of contents, and then the actual material.The first chapter is all about the basics, starting with "practice by starting with copying" then it moves onto how to go and create your own charatures by showing you the basics of drawing (start with a rough general outline of blah blah blah then refine it and add detale blah blah blah).First they start with the head and face the move down to the torso, arms, and legs.In the book they also show examples of expressing emotions, depicting 'cool action poses', a little bit of sceanery, and how to properly hold your drawing tools.IN the book itself it says these are the goals it's trying to teach you:
Good Book
How to draw Manga: Ultimate Manga Lessons Volume 1 is a good book to start with if you are trying to learn the art of drawing manga. This book covers almost all the basics and helped me alot. It tells you how to use different drawing materials and how to start drawing your own manga. It also showes you the differenses between male and female cheracters. Also as to be acspected in any how to draw manga book there is some mild nudity (but nothing that detailled). So alaround I think this is a very good book to start drawing manga with.-_- ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Art & Art Instruction    3. Comic books, strips, etc.    4. Drawing    5. Japan    6. Technique    7. Techniques - Cartooning    8. Art / Cartooning    9. Art techniques & principles    10. Comic book & cartoon art   

Reviews (44)

Overrated
I can not believe anyone has ever learned to draw the human figure from this book. Even people who give it good reviews generally mention that they've had some prior class experience or say that the book is an advanced work. I'll go further and say that this is the very worst book any beginner could possibly pick up. Bottom line is that the explanatory text and the content of the instructional material itself make this book of limited value to an intermediate artist and utterly useless to the beginner.
Interesting Anatomy Showcase
Very well drawn figures with insightful commentary help the reader learn interesting ways of drawing anatomy using not only drawings but words aswell.
Does not give any instruction
This book contains a great deal of very well crafted drawings, obviously the author knows what he is doing, but my main problem with this book is that the author fails to give detailed, specific "how to" information.There are no steps to follow, the author just comments on his own drawings throwing tidbits here and there to the reader.I found myself with paper and pencil and this book before me and I did not know what to do.Should I just copy his drawings?Why not draw from life then?What should the reader be doing?It's as if the book were a seminar instead of a class which has projects and lessons.I honestly don't understand what everybody else is getting from this book.I felt like I was trying to put a cabinet together with chinese instructions...If he or any of his students decide to make another book, they should consider making one that gives step by step instruction... ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Art & Art Instruction    3. Figure Drawing    4. Study & Teaching    5. Techniques - Drawing    6. Techniques - Life Drawing    7. Art techniques & materials    8. Drawing & drawings   

Reviews (30)

How to Survive and Prosper As an Artist: Selling Yourself Without Selling Your Soul
WOW, WOW, WOW. Get this book! This has (just about) everything you need to be professional. The only thing I didn't like is that most of the resources listed were geared to NYC residents, but there was good direction as to how to locate similar services in your area. I especially liked the opening that deals with how artists are helping to perpetuate their own "starving artist" myth, and the ways to stop that. It made me realize that I am the one standing in the way of my own success! Well, no more--thanks to Caroll--I am taking all of the steps listed. I wish my graduate school had this information available!

really helpful
this book was really helpful in understanding how much marketing work is involved with doing art. it's a little intimidating to think that you will need to write press-releases for everything you do. but thats' the truth i guess if you want to play the game. that is if you want to play by and set your own rules instead of just being a tool for the whims of gallerists and dealers.

I am so glad I bought this book!
I have never been one to read self-help books, but, as an artist just beginning to market my work, I felt helpless and uninformed. I am so glad I bought this book - Ms. Michels demystifies the business process in a pragmatic and often humorous way. I now feel I have a clearer picture of where I'm going and how I'm going to get there, as well as having more confidence in myself and less awe of the art world.
Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Art & Art Instruction    3. Business Aspects    4. Career/Job    5. Careers - Arts    6. Careers - General    7. Marketing    8. Marketing - General    9. Personal Growth - Success    10. Reference    11. United States    12. Vocational guidance   

Reviews (3)

Professional Review
Children and Their Art is the most comprehensive textbook available for teaching art education methods.This bestselling textbook covers all aspects of teaching art in the elementary classroom: the basic principles and goals of art education, the characteristics and needs of children as learners, the core principles of art as a subject-aesthetics, principles of design, art history, art media-and all aspects of instruction-curriculum planning, sample lessons, classroom management, and assessment. The seventh edition has been thoroughly updated and includes coverage of the National Standards for Art Education as well as the impact of postmodern thought on the practice of art education. It also provides a concise overview of child development theories and the latest findings on child development and brain research, including Howard Gardner's theory of Multiple Intelligences.

It was a good condition and fast.
Thank you for a fast delivery and a good condition of the book.

Great Teacher Resource -- for the arts
This is a great book to use in a pre-service teacher education program. However, I am a long-time art educator and I still refer to it because it has a wide range of information on issues we encounter every day. This yearI am teaching the art class for undergraduate elementary teachers and it isproving a very valuable resource.It is written in a readable, highlypractical way with lots of examples that make adding art into an elementarycurriculum not seem so foreign or so daunting. I do feel that there is aneed for other supplemental reading and resources to accompany this text,but it is a great overall art education text, especially for the generalistteacher. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Education / Teaching    3. Elementary    4. General    5. Study & Teaching    6. Art / General    7. Art Forms, Treatments & Subjects    8. Children   

Reviews (5)

important tool for artists & designers, read his book first
Johannes Ittens is unarguably recognized as the master of color from the Bauhaus school of art. The color star is a valuable asset to any artist or designer that wants to become better with making color choices. However, as any good tool goes the color star by itself won't be much use to you unless you've studied the material presented in one of his books.

Just a set of wheels
Very disappointed by the "book", which actually consists of a set of wheels, The color star
The black cut outs aren't cut acurately.I'd like to return this item to you and exchange it. A group of us purchased it for a class and I DON'T KNOW the account number. So how do i get it back into the mail and maybe get one that has been cut acurately?Thank you ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Art & Art Instruction    3. Color Theory    4. Graphic Arts - Use of Color    5. Techniques - General    6. Art / Color    7. Art techniques & materials    8. Industrial / Commercial Art & Design   

Reviews (1)

The inkologist`s bible !
A broad yet relatively complete technical foray into the specialized domain of printing inks.For inkies I find this book is most useful to shore up on ink types you are not most familiar with.Not too technical.A must for those involved in formulating inks. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Counseling - Vocational Guidance    3. Engineering - Chemical & Biochemical    4. Paint Chemistry And Technology    5. Printing ink    6. Publishing    7. Techniques - Painting    8. Techniques - Pen & Ink Drawing    9. Technology & Industrial Arts    10. EU (European Union)    11. Industrial / Commercial Art & Design    12. Language Arts & Disciplines / Publishing    13. Pigments, dyestuffs & paint technology    14. USA    15. United Kingdom, Great Britain   

Reviews (5)

Its a start: you must know what you are encountering
The format of this book is not "10 quick things you can do". It is mostly a discussion, from different people, attacking different subjets. It is not uniform. There is a lot of repetition. However, being a lawyer, I find that it is a good start for people who have little concept of technical aspects of the art market.

Author recounts book's success
When I was Special Assistant Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts, visual artists had few ways to support themselves except for grants. Apart from the special few, little hope existed for selling their art, and most artists had no idea of how to "go about it." I assembled an internationally respected group of artists, dealers, art lawyers and accountants and put them in front of tens of thousands of artists nationwide. Through questions and answers, speeches and demonstations, a distilled book's worth of unique knowledge and advice came into being. Unlike any other books that give one artist's opinion, or one "art advisor's advice" this book does something different: the straight story comes directly from the most outstanding and respected authorities in the field. No other book does this. No other authority can provide this knowledge in a single volume. The Business of Art is now the basis for college level courses on the business side of art. There is also a companion video sold by Phoenix Flms at 800-221-1274. Used together, they provide artists and art groups with a wealth of learning material for either immediate use or continuing education of artists worldwide.

Not so good
There is a lot of info in this book.However, the information seems jumbled.I say that because, one chapter seems to be more for the emerging artist and the next for the established artist.I did not care for the chapters about the dealers (ex. one chapter in New York dealer, one is Houston dealer, etc.)Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Art (Economic Aspects)    3. Business & Economics    4. Business/Economics    5. Careers - General    6. Careers / Job Opportunities    7. Economic aspects    8. Economics - General    9. Marketing    10. Reference    11. Business & Economics / Careers    12. Small businesses & self-employed    13. The Arts   

Reviews (1)

Amazing
This book has not only wonderful pictures but also incredible biography of Verdura -- highly recommend it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Biography / Autobiography    3. Jewelry    4. Rich & Famous    5. Techniques - Pastel Drawing    6. Antiques & Collectibles / Jewelry   

Reviews (7)

So much fun!
Ed Emberley is a cottage industry when it comes to drawing and teaching children to draw things like animals, faces, trucks and trains, weirdos, the world and oh, so much more. While these books are directed toward early school-age children, I know many adults who would benefit from and find the books and instructions helpful and fun.
This book keeps kids happy, not frustrated
Some art books are too tough for kids without drawing skills, they can actually make kids cry in frustration with, "I don't get it, I can't do it". I have never had that problem with books from this artist, kids just love these! Ed Emberly has made some wonderful books for kids and grown-ups of any age that have no drawing skills, but want to learn a simple way. His books are the easiest books to get you started if you have no previous drawing skills. He doesn't talk down to you, he doesn't talk at all but uses his step by step method for you to follow. As a result, you can use these books for kids that have language issues. He starts with a step by step illustrated lesson to draw one simple item. First a simple straight line here, then insert a circle then, then another line, step by step along the way and before you know it you have a completed drawing that you can be really proud of. I teach Cub Scouts and this artist makes the perfect book for teaching a class when you are a volunteer yourself that is not an art pro.
Fun with Faces
I love all of Emerbeley's books but this one was a particular favorite of mine. It goes into how to draw all sorts of faces from regular people to clowns, movie monsters, and animals. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art - Drawing    2. Children's Books/Ages 4-8 Nonfiction    3. Children: Grades 2-3    4. Drawing    5. Face in art    6. Juvenile Nonfiction    7. Juvenile literature    8. Technique    9. Art techniques, equipment & materials    10. Drawing & drawings    11. Juvenile Nonfiction / Art / Drawing   

Reviews (5)

good oil book
This book is great.It runs through different painting styles and even has a section on abstract painting, which is rare.I would recommend.

One of the very best introductory oil painting books
The author's deep understanding of art in general shows in this book, and in his work.His paintings are outstanding and his writing style is easy to read.
Everything you wanted to know, but were afraid to ask...
I bought this book to get an introduction to oil painting before i went out and spent my hard earned on brushes, oils etc etc...to be honest I didn't know what I needed to buy! This book solved that initial problem, aswell as giving me heaps of information to ease me into the medium + food for thought and excellent 'down to earth' advice/inspiration. I haven't left it out of my sight and everytime i open it up I encounter something new...Thanks Mister Gorst on a very fine book indeed! The design/layout of the book is also excellent and you won't find a page lacking in wisdom... ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Art & Art Instruction    3. Painting    4. Study & Teaching    5. Technique    6. Techniques - Oil Painting   

Reviews (15)

Drawing Lessons from the Great Masters
This is one of the finest books an art student could purchase. It is a treasure. The Great Master paintings are presented which alone is worth it. But Hale has analyzed them in an artistic, not overly anatomical way that makes his lessons sink beneath your skin and pencil. Hale's contribution is priceless.

Great reference!
This book is a great analysis of past masters drawings. It basically breaks down what is good about the masters techniques. Also, there are some really well thought out chapters on drawing basics as they apply to figure drawing. Definitely worthy of having for a serious artist who draws just about anything.
drawing lessons from the great masters
was well written, the pictures could be more clearly printed. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Anatomy, Artistic    2. Art    3. Art & Art Instruction    4. Drawing    5. Figure drawing    6. Human figure in art    7. Study & Teaching    8. Techniques - Drawing    9. Art techniques & materials    10. Drawing & drawings    11. History Of Art / Art & Design Styles   

Reviews (1)

Good Job
Yeah, I ordered two books at the same time, one from amazon and one from this seller. This seller provided the best service. While Amazon's order was delayed and frought with difficulty the transaction with this seller was quick and efficient. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Art & Art Instruction    3. Criticism    4. General    5. History - General    6. Art / History / General    7. Art techniques & materials    8. History Of Art / Art & Design Styles    9. Painting & paintings   

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Art & Art Instruction    3. Astronomy - General    4. Astronomy - Star Guides    5. Atlases - General    6. General    7. Reference    8. Science    9. Star Observation    10. Astronomical charts & atlases   

Reviews (46)

I liked it
It just didn't motivate me like I wanted it to.... so I sold it.But, it does have some good steps to getting that impressionistic look.I suggest trying out the book by Susan Sarback, Capturing Radiant Color in Oils (Paperback)
awesome
This discussed painting in a way I needed to hear. It was easy to work with and inspired ideas for me to try. Great book

Good source of info!
I learned so much from this book.I started painting about 3 years ago and I just painted a little bit more realistically and now I can actually paint in a more impressionist way!Very informing... satisfied + customer ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Art & Art Instruction    3. Color in art    4. Impressionism (Art)    5. Landscape Painting    6. Light in art    7. Study & Teaching    8. Technique    9. Techniques - General    10. Techniques - Oil Painting    11. Techniques - Painting    12. Techniques - Painting - Specific Subjects    13. Art techniques & materials    14. Hawthorne, Charles Webster    15. Influence    16. Painting & paintings   

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Art & Art Instruction    3. Notebooks    4. Technique    5. Techniques - General    6. Art techniques & principles    7. Painting & paintings   

Reviews (4)

Mystery of Color Solved For Me!
This book was required text for a color theory class I took recently.For years I've been looking for information on color but could not find anything beyond the basics, usually associated with painting/art books.This book is all- encompassing:information about various color theories, perceptions of color, color and light, color in printing and more.It is full of examples, pictures, graphs, charts.I came away with the information that I knew must be out there!I would recommend this book to any color student.Mine is dog-eared!

Brilliant book on Color Theory!
This book is a must read for anyone studying the visual arts.
Color, 3rd Ed.
Excellent source for artists, archietcts, or designers who want to push the envelope with color. Definite must for students in any Art and Design school! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Art & Art Instruction    3. Color In Art Media    4. Color Theory    5. Criticism    6. Fine Arts    7. General    8. History - General    9. Art / General    10. Theory of art   

Reviews (7)

Very good instructions and entertainment
My son is 6 years old and he loves this book.The instructions are very clear, he has no difficulty in following them.He has created dozens of pictures since buying the book and is quite happy to spend hours simply making pictures.He gets a real sense of accomplishment from being able to create the pictures.I highly recomend this book.

Good Job
I like this book because its ideas are fun, easy to do, and the outcome is very nice.

Great child's drawing book!
This was a great book for kids to learn to draw animals from.My 5 1/2 year old daughter is really into it, and even the boys in the neighborhood enjoy using it too! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Animals in art    2. Art - Drawing    3. Children's Books/Ages 4-8 Nonfiction    4. Children: Kindergarten    5. Drawing    6. Juvenile Nonfiction    7. Juvenile literature    8. Technique    9. Art techniques, equipment & materials    10. Drawing & drawings   

Reviews (9)

Awsome art technique book, widely applicable
Wow!"Exploring Color" lived up to all of the 5-star reviews, and surpassed them all.I've never been able to say that about a book before.This book focuses mainly on the use of color in artwork -- why some color schemes work, and why others fail.Many other topics are covered and related to back to the use of color, such as composition, presentation, design and types of contrast.Example pictures are taken from a wide range of artwork in different mediums by various artists -- simply wonderful!After each description, the author inserts an exercise for the reader, to help you understand and apply the principle presented.These exercises can be done in any medium (watercolor, oil, pastel, cloth, etc.), and far surpass the "paint by number/follow me" exercises in books aimed at nervous beginners.
this book changed the way I look at color
I think every artist should read this book. it immediately changed the way I look at color. just ONE part of the book saved me a lot of headaches and explained a lot of the reason I was having so many problems working with color.

Practical advice on color usage
It is worthwhile to put the time and effort into learning color theory for any artist or artisan as a sound knowledge of the subject will increase his/her capabilities and give more satisfactory results. This book extensively covers not only the theory aspect but puts it into practice for the reader by giving specific projects to illustrate the point being discussed. It is chock full of photos of art on every page.Read more

Subjects:  1. Art    2. Art & Art Instruction    3. Color In Art Media    4. Color Theory    5. Color in art    6. Graphic Arts - Use of Color    7. Techniques - General    8. Art techniques & principles    9. Painting & paintings   

Reviews (2)

An Invaluable Resource
I loved this workbook...excellent ideas in a painless, creative and fun format!!

Hard work but worthwhile
It seems that many of us who are artists are content to languish undiscovered, to deluge our relatives with gorgeous handmade cards and crafts, and/or to feel that we're really not good enough and motivated enough to sell our work - after all, we'd have been discovered if it was THAT good.This book will require you to answer questions and use a calculator, but once you've finished it you will have a marketing plan for your work - and you will feel that your work deserves it.You are neither too good for selling, nor not-good enough for it either.You can do it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Art / Business Aspects    2. Business & Economics    3. Business & Economics / Marketing / General    4. Business/Economics    5. Marketing - General