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Painting by Design by Charles Reid

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Award-winning artist and popular workshop teacher, Charles Reid describes in this volume how to see painting subjects in terms of light, shadow, shape, value, and color. Opening with a series on drawing using contour and rhythm basedon photographs, the book also features down-to-earth advice for working with watercolors and oil. 200 full-color and 30 black-and-white illustrations. 12,500 first printing.

Hardcover

First published March 1, 1991

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Charles Reid

53 books13 followers
Charles Clark Reid

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
Profile Image for Sia Karamalegos.
242 reviews5 followers
July 26, 2025
I've read a lot of books about composition, figure drawing, and watercolor. I'm hesitant to rate many at 5 stars but it was warranted in this case. Charles Reid presented several ideas and strategies I haven't come across in other art literature yet. It also made me feel more empowered as I prefer more loose, less meticulous work.
Profile Image for Tara.
Author 5 books16 followers
August 26, 2025
If I could only absorb all the good information in this book, I'm sure I would improve so much. There are some good exercises. Still, rather intimidating.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews

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