Natural Watercolours: Painting from Nature Made Easy

by Richard S. Taylor

From fruits and flowers to gardens and landscapes, nature provides artists with a constant source of inspiration, a cornucopia of colors, and a variety of beautiful forms. Translate these natural wonders into shimmering watercolors with these comprehensive exercises. Finished examples are broken down into constituent shapes, shadings, and techniques, so you'll understand how painters analyze their subjects, and develop artistic skills and compositional acuity. Paint indoor images of flower heads, autumn fruits, and lobsters. Move outside and sketch stone gateways, a glowing red poppy, and a cool blue cluster of sweetpea blossoms. Finally, capture woodlands, gardens, and open sea and sky.

Genres: Art

117 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 1998

Reviews

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I binged this as I had to return it to the library very soon so I can't remember that much...though I remember a lovely painting of Taylor's painting supplies, and I really liked seeing the way Taylor communicates form and the different shapes within a larger object.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. I love his style and techniques, as well as his choice of subjects. My first attempt painting a leaf using his technique was a smashing success (and I'm just a beginner). I always tell people that if I can do this, so can you. It's important to have good books like this, or a good instructor, and anyone can paint if they consistently practice. I'm living proof you don't have to be born with a brush in your hand to be able to draw/paint competently. Books like this one really help.

I can also highly recommend The Watercolourist's Guide to Painting Buildings by the same author, which is where I first learned of his leaf technique. I didn't have much interest in painting buildings, but I loved the effects he was getting in his work so much, I picked it up. He's inspired me to try buildings too. I just want to buy all of his books and have them on hand. Every page brings a new inspiration for me.