London Sketchbook: A City Observed

by Graham Byfield, Marcus Binney

At once ancient and modern, Britain's cosmopolitan capital has no formal center; each of its areas boasts its own style and atmosphere. Central London's royal palaces and grand hotels vie for the onlooker's attention with its majestic parliament building. The financial district--the City--has witnessed a flowering of daring and innovative modern architecture, which now mingles with the somber Tower of London and the greatest works of Sir Christopher Wren. The village atmosphere of Hampstead and Islington contrast with the 19th-century residential areas and museum districts of London's west.

Watercolor painter Graham Byfeld set out to capture the essence of the city.His impressions are captured vividly in the London Sketchbook , and accompanied by writer Marcus Binney's engaging prose exploration of London's history, people, and architecture.

Genres: Art, London, Travel, Architecture

96 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Parka · Rating 5 out of 5]

(More pictures on my blog)

This is a beautiful sketchbook of London sketches by Graham Byfield. The amazing architecture and charm of the places visited are captured with pencil and watercolour in detail.

It covers not just the main tourist areas but also the lesser known places. It's a marvel how the old buildings are preserved, and how timeless their designs are. There are churches, townhouses, stone-paved streets, monolithic buildings and many other sights. Notes from the artist beside each painting provides interesting information about the places.

It's a wonderful book for sketchbook lovers.

[Eszter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply gorgeous illustrations! A beautiful book about London. So if you love the city and prefer old-fashioned drawings over photos, this book is just made for you. Go and get it!

[Bethany Alice Lanckmans · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely beautiful book, intricate and personal - it feels as though you've just picked up the private sketchbook belonging to someone. Once you've had it a while, you begin to forget that it is a published booked. Great descriptions, beautiful drawings. Worth every penny.