I backed the kickstarter for this book last year, and it finally arrived a couple of days ago. To say I was stoked was an understatement! I've backed quite a few artbook kickstarters at this point, and the ones with long timelines always feel like a surprise gift once they arrive.
First impression when I opened the package is that the book is stunning. Auclair did an amazing job with the cover art. Honestly, the book is just beautiful all over. I don't remember precisely when or where I found Auclairs art, but I've followed her for a long time at this point, so I had to get her artbook. It was very interesting to read about her journey with art. There's a lot I can recognise in her experience with burnout, since I'm in the middle of a years long one at this point. She also has a very interesting approach to art, some of it I think I'm going to try to implement, but definitely also stuff that wouldn't work for me. I think it comes down to a difference in neurodivergence, Auclair being ADHD, and me being autistic. Nonetheless, I love getting to understand my favourite artist' approach to their art.
I kickstarted Starburst on the visual previews, not familiar with Audra Auclair or her work at the time of backing. Having just finished the book, this is one of my favorites from the 3D Total Publishing art books. Seeing/reading about her experiences and how she approaches her sketchbook just made something click for me, a freeing feeling; I got my sketchbook and just started doing stuff. I've not come across a lot of books that push me past inspiration into actual "go-doing".
Additionally, while I don't follow tutorials in art books often, I loved the tips Audra put in the middle of the tutorials explaining tools, art concepts, etc. Even though I did not do a step-by-step follow along, I feel I learned alot.
All in all, I would highly recommend this publication! While I'm not really on social media anymore to keep up with art posts, I'm looking forward to checking out her youtube channel and keeping an eye out for any future publications!