In this 10th lesson, we will be learning a few new techniques, as well as trying out a new painting surface. We'll draw faces using a grid, and paint flowers, also using a grid painting technique. Besides paper and a sketchbook, you'll need at least one piece of Aquabord (also known as textured clayboard).
Before we start drawing and painting, I want to introduce you to my 10 favorite art books. They are not books about watercolor techniques -- but, I learned so much from them, that I wanted to tell you about them.
After reading this list of my 10 favorites, choose one of these to buy and read yourself. They are not "how-to" books, and after reading the book, you don't have to write a book report for me, or anything like that. Just buy the book, and read it at your own pace. If you'd like to tell me which book you chose, and any thoughts about it -- that would be great.
My 10 Favorite Art Books
1) The Art Spirit, by Robert Henri -- I've read this twice, and I'm ready to read it again. It is so inspirational, and is, as George Bellows said, "comparable only to the notes of Leonardo . . . "
2) The Blank Canvas, Inviting the Muse, by Anna Held Audette -- I have never seen this one on any "best of" lists, but I love this little book! Great book for any artist who has had trouble "getting started" -- haven't we all? I'm going to read this one again, too.
3) Art & Fear: Observations on the Perils & Rewards of Artmaking, by David Bayles -- This is a book written by artists, for artists -- a simple, but powerful, must-read book.
4) The Artist's Way, A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity, by Julia Cameron -- A course to free your creativity, no matter what form of art you are interested in. This has been a life-changer for a lot of people.
5) bird by bird, by Anne Lamott -- So insightful and funny -- about life and creativity. It is a must-read for anyone interested in creative writing, but I would recommend it to any artist or art student.
6) The Natural Way to Draw, by Nicolaides -- If you are serious about learning to draw, get this book! And then, read it and use it -- do all the exercises. I did, and it helped me so much! It's the best "how-to" book on drawing, written in 1941.
7) Hawthorne on Painting, collected by Mrs. Charles Hawthorne -- This book has so much to offer the painter -- especially in regards to the subject of color. Charles Hawthorne was a master guide and teacher of art, and this book contains his notes and his students' notes.
8) Composition, by Arthur Wesley Dow -- First published in 1899, this book was written by the mentor of Georgia O'Keefe. He was very much influenced by Japanese art -- I guess that's why it resonates with me. It is a classic book about design -- a practical, well-illustrated guide to artistic composition.
9) On Painting & Drawing, by William Morris Hunt -- Another book, based on the teachings of an exceptional teacher from 19th century Boston. Always considered ahead of his time, Hunt's teachings are still relevant today. (I think I need to read this book again, too.)
10) Composition of Outdoor Painting, by Edgar Payne -- An important book on landscape painting -- no matter what the medium. Payne was able to reduce complex ideas to simple demonstrations in this classic book. (Plus, the photo of Payne on the back cover is priceless.)
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