July 13
This is essentially a hints-and-tips guide with the topics headed by questions. Subjects include How can I decide where to place the figure?, How can I choose a palette of colour to start with? and What are the steps for making a quick sketch in pencil? I've picked those pretty much at random, but think of a question yourself and the chances are it'll be one of the two hundred answered here, either from a technical or a creative standpoint. What I like about this is that, although there is an overall structure - chapters on Backgrounds and Composition, Skin Tones, Facial Features, Hair, Clothing and so on - the book doesn't feel like a course. For me, it's something to dip into and pull out a plum. There's an index if you need something specific, I've said before that I'm a fan of serendipity and I like the idea of picking this up with a cup of tea and just finding something new, pretty much by chance.
* Paint *
Summer 13
Although this book offers a fairly basic approach, the question and answer format allows topics to be introduced systematically and progressively. As such, it provides an accessible way into what can be a complex and, for the novice, a bewildering subject. It is simple to navigate, with main chapter headings running from Proportions, Character and Likeness and Skin Tones and Colour Mixing to methods in most media and a look at different styles of working. Subheads deal with such things as anatomy, lighting and ways of handling details such as eyes and hair. Each topic is covered in no more than a single page, which makes things very easy to follow. All of this is underpinned by illustrations both from the author and a variety of contemporary artists, showcasing many different styles and approaches. Subjects, both male and female, include a good range of ages, skin tones, facial types and body shapes.
* Artist, The *
Summer 13
In her new book on Portrait Painting, Tricia Reichert has all the answers to 200 questions on the subject. The book opens with a chapter on proportions, character and likeness. Twenty-one questions are listed at the start, ranging from: How can I measure the face? to: Do I have to start with a pencil drawing if I am going to paint a portrait? Each of these questions is carefully answered with annotated drawings where necessary. Chapter two deals with light and shadow, while chapter three focuses on backgrounds and composition, in which Tricia tackles such questions as What is the Golden Section?, and What is meant by blocking-in the composition? Chapters follow on skin tones and colour mixing, facial features and hair, and clothing and hats. Individual media are dealt with separately so there's plenty of advice on the medium that is pertinent to you, whether you use pencil, oil, acrylic, pastel, watercolour or gouache. The book closes with a chapter on exploring styles and a useful glossary of terms. This is a very practical and easy to use rference book for anyone wishing either to begin portrait painting or to improve their skills. It's packed full of useful information and tips to help you on your way.
* Leisure Painter, The *
Aug 13
Anyone who has tried to draw a face knows just how difficult it is. Not only do you have to get the proportions and features right; you also to capture emotions and character. Not an easy task. Reichart has created a book which aims to help artists develop the skills necessary to create credible portraits. Although there are plenty of step by step instructions; this is primarily a reference book that can be turned to whenever a question arises. How do you portray character? What's the effect of using a hat in a portrait? What techniques are best for painting patterns on clothing? How can I paint very curly hair? What colour is best for painting nostrils? How do I draw noses or paint ears? How do I paint eyes so that they look alive? Techniques such as these are explained clearly and with useful illustrations where necessary. It is a really helpful book, ideal for artists at any stage in their development. Above all, this is a perfect reference book which deserves a place on any artist's bookshelf. 4 stars
* Monstersandcritics.com *
July 13
Almost every aspect of portrait painting is covered in this bumper compendium of queries and solutions, alongside more general topics such as What is optical mixing? or What us meant by chiaroscuro? Some of the artworks reproduced throughout look a little dated but the advice inside remains fairly timeless.
* Artists & Illustrators, The *
