This is another of those excellent titles that originates from the Spanish publisher, Parramón. Characterised by their illustration-led approach, they provide an easy-to-follow step-by-step approach that leaves you in no doubt what you’re seeing and doing.
Ostensibly aimed at the complete beginner, this does indeed start with the fundamentals and shows you how to work with simple shapes. David will have you drawing animals (even horses) within a very few pages. He moves from there to movement and portraits, building on the skills you’re developing even as the subject matter changes. Landscapes and flowers are covered in addition in later chapters.
As well as subjects, techniques such as shading and chiaroscuro are introduced, as are the use of different materials charcoal, pen, and ink wash.
This is a thorough guide that packs a lot into a small space without cutting too many corners or becoming breathless. Although it’ll be perfectly comprehensible to beginners, the more experienced artist should find much here that’s invaluable, particularly in the technical sections.
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