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Colored Pencil Painting Portraits: Master a Revolutionary Method for Rendering Depth and Imitating Life
Colored pencil painter Alyona Nickelsen reveals how to use the medium to push the limits of realistic portraiture. Colored Pencil Painting Portraits provides straightforward solutions to the problems that artists face in creating lifelike images, and will prime readers on the intricacies of color, texture, shadow, and light as they interplay with the human form. In this truly comprehensive guide packed with step-by-step demonstrations, Nickelsen considers working from photo references versus live models; provides guidance on posing and lighting, as well as planning and composing a work; discusses tools, materials, and revolutionary layering techniques; and offers lessons on capturing gesture and expression and on rendering facial and body features of people of all age groups and skin tones.
- GenresArtNonfiction
192 pages, Paperback
Published June 20, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
June 21, 2017
!! NOW AVAILABLE !!
I love art, love dabbling in it, but the only medium I feel I ever truly enjoy my results is in photography. Still, I own paintings my maternal grandmother painted, and one of my mother’s paintings, and I have several of my daughter-in-law’s art, which never ceases to amaze me. Her talent truly astounds me, and when I saw this book on creating art like hers, but using coloured pencils, I knew I wanted to read it, maybe even get some insights. If nothing else, maybe it would inspire me in no other way than to buy this and gift copies to some of the budding artists in my life. I've already pre-ordered a few copies.
With a career as a professional portrait artist, Alyona Nickelsen has learned some things along the way, how to use lighting the way she prefers, and products - the papers she uses, tools, blending techniques, fixatives, and in this book she shares what she’s learned along the way, all of her many years of experience. If you’re a professional portrait painter, there is an abundance of advice shared.
Even if you have no desire to try your hand at painting with coloured pencils, this is worth it for the stunning pictures included, alone. Nickelsen is an inspiration, and we all need a little inspiration sometimes.
Pub Date: 20 Jun 2017
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Ten Speed Press / Watson-Guptill Publications
I love art, love dabbling in it, but the only medium I feel I ever truly enjoy my results is in photography. Still, I own paintings my maternal grandmother painted, and one of my mother’s paintings, and I have several of my daughter-in-law’s art, which never ceases to amaze me. Her talent truly astounds me, and when I saw this book on creating art like hers, but using coloured pencils, I knew I wanted to read it, maybe even get some insights. If nothing else, maybe it would inspire me in no other way than to buy this and gift copies to some of the budding artists in my life. I've already pre-ordered a few copies.
With a career as a professional portrait artist, Alyona Nickelsen has learned some things along the way, how to use lighting the way she prefers, and products - the papers she uses, tools, blending techniques, fixatives, and in this book she shares what she’s learned along the way, all of her many years of experience. If you’re a professional portrait painter, there is an abundance of advice shared.
Even if you have no desire to try your hand at painting with coloured pencils, this is worth it for the stunning pictures included, alone. Nickelsen is an inspiration, and we all need a little inspiration sometimes.
Pub Date: 20 Jun 2017
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Ten Speed Press / Watson-Guptill Publications
August 25, 2017
Stunning portraits created with colored pencils. I was mesmerized by her talent and techniques. I have worked in pastels, charcoal, and paint but I simply cannot create portraits. Nonetheless, I loved looking at her methods and the evolution of her beautiful work. I also enjoyed sharing this creative work with my children, who also love art and creating. 5 stars
February 6, 2017
~3.5
Thought colored pencils were only good for middle-school drawings of ponies and rainbows? Take a look at one of Alyona Nickelsen's portraits and think again:
Who knew what wonders could be performed with colored pencils? In Colored Pencil Painting Portraits, Nickelsen seeks to explain how she elevates colored pencils from a child's activity to a true art medium. Perhaps the most surprising thing to me-- although in retrospect, I suppose it shouldn't be-- is her explanation of the other tools she requires to turn pencil into paintbrush. She describes the types of papers to employ as well as blending tools, solvents, and sealants to overcome the natural limits of the medium. Her techniques are fascinating, but I will admit I found her constant advertising of her own products rather tiresome. She never mentions blender or fixative when "ACP Textured Fixative" or "Colored Pencil Touch-Up Texture" can be wedged in instead. ("ACP Textured Fixative" literally turns up 81 times in the short book!)
Another unexpected aspect I found interesting was Nickelsen's pragmatic advice for professional portrait painters. She has made a career out of a role I thought had died out with the invention of the camera, and I was somewhat amused by the very practical advice she shares about the profession. As in very traditional portraits, Nickelsen favors single light sources, static poses, and strongly suggests avoiding "perspective distortion"-- in fact, it's the opposite advice you'll see in guides for gesture or animation. There's an entire chapter on how to pose the subject to make them appear to be slimmer, as well as a long digression into the delicate art of flattering the sitter without making them look unrealistic. It's the sort of thing that Bernini or Sargent must have struggled with constantly.
I was intrigued to discover that reading the book clarified something about my own feelings for art. With pencil and charcoal and paint, I like to see the strokes, the layers, the careless mastery of the tool. Nickelsen's portraits demonstrate tremendous care, but the techniques she supports-- careful posing, tracing photographs-- and the medium itself have inherent limits in the artistic spontaneity I love to trace in an artist's work. Both portrait painting on commission and colored pencils are very specialized forms of the art, while I don't think the book stretches past these very specialized fields, I found it an entertaining and fascinating read.
~~I received an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley from the publisher, Ten Speed Press, in exchange for my honest review.~~
Cross-posted on BookLikes.
Thought colored pencils were only good for middle-school drawings of ponies and rainbows? Take a look at one of Alyona Nickelsen's portraits and think again:
Who knew what wonders could be performed with colored pencils? In Colored Pencil Painting Portraits, Nickelsen seeks to explain how she elevates colored pencils from a child's activity to a true art medium. Perhaps the most surprising thing to me-- although in retrospect, I suppose it shouldn't be-- is her explanation of the other tools she requires to turn pencil into paintbrush. She describes the types of papers to employ as well as blending tools, solvents, and sealants to overcome the natural limits of the medium. Her techniques are fascinating, but I will admit I found her constant advertising of her own products rather tiresome. She never mentions blender or fixative when "ACP Textured Fixative" or "Colored Pencil Touch-Up Texture" can be wedged in instead. ("ACP Textured Fixative" literally turns up 81 times in the short book!)
Another unexpected aspect I found interesting was Nickelsen's pragmatic advice for professional portrait painters. She has made a career out of a role I thought had died out with the invention of the camera, and I was somewhat amused by the very practical advice she shares about the profession. As in very traditional portraits, Nickelsen favors single light sources, static poses, and strongly suggests avoiding "perspective distortion"-- in fact, it's the opposite advice you'll see in guides for gesture or animation. There's an entire chapter on how to pose the subject to make them appear to be slimmer, as well as a long digression into the delicate art of flattering the sitter without making them look unrealistic. It's the sort of thing that Bernini or Sargent must have struggled with constantly.
I was intrigued to discover that reading the book clarified something about my own feelings for art. With pencil and charcoal and paint, I like to see the strokes, the layers, the careless mastery of the tool. Nickelsen's portraits demonstrate tremendous care, but the techniques she supports-- careful posing, tracing photographs-- and the medium itself have inherent limits in the artistic spontaneity I love to trace in an artist's work. Both portrait painting on commission and colored pencils are very specialized forms of the art, while I don't think the book stretches past these very specialized fields, I found it an entertaining and fascinating read.
~~I received an advanced reader copy of this book through Netgalley from the publisher, Ten Speed Press, in exchange for my honest review.~~
Cross-posted on BookLikes.
September 29, 2017
There is absolutely no denying Alyona Nickelsen's talent and skill. The drawings – or colored pencil paintings – shown in this book are gorgeous in their photo–realism… my only complaint, I think, is a bit of spot–blindness in some facial expressions. I used to draw, all the time, and always found it both fascinating and frustrating how hugely a single line could affect an expression; I remember spending a very long time on one drawing, and found it amazing how, without ever touching the mouth, I could create the impression of a smile by darkening a line of the eye. Erase that back a bit, and the smile faded. There's a reason most of the portraits you're going to see in museums or art books are of solemn sitters, or Mona Lisa smiles: a big toothy grin is very hard to pull off without straying into goofy territory. Teeth are hard.
I'm not sure it's entirely fair for someone as talented as Ms. Nickelsen to put out a how-to book. The odds against reaching anything remotely close to her level is so remote that it's almost a book full of fail. But if you go into this with the expectation of learning tips and tricks and tools and techniques (phew, didn't think I'd get the full alliteration out of that), and of being better than you were before you read it – then you can't fail. And of course there's the option of just paging through the incredible artwork on every page and admiring its evolution. Either way, this is highly recommended.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
I'm not sure it's entirely fair for someone as talented as Ms. Nickelsen to put out a how-to book. The odds against reaching anything remotely close to her level is so remote that it's almost a book full of fail. But if you go into this with the expectation of learning tips and tricks and tools and techniques (phew, didn't think I'd get the full alliteration out of that), and of being better than you were before you read it – then you can't fail. And of course there's the option of just paging through the incredible artwork on every page and admiring its evolution. Either way, this is highly recommended.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
June 30, 2017
Colored Pencil Painting Portraits by Alyona Nickelsen is broken into seven chapters describing and exploring the use of colored pencils, alone and with other mediums. The increased quality of colored pencils has improved drastically and the last twenty years have shown tremendous strides in improved performance and the range of abilities of colored pencils. Descriptions of types of mediums clarifies usage and the examples of colored pencil creations are astounding and look realistic; 5 stars for an impressive artist and her instructional book that helps others aspire to her standards! I am planning on purchasing this book for the school library.
December 23, 2016
I was provided with a ARC of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was completely blown away by the thoroughness of this instruction book. I can not wait to see it in print form. I am very comfortable with graphite drawing but in spite owning very good and numerous colored pencils and wonderful books on the subject, I have never fully committed to this discipline.
With this examination of the medium, the supplies and the color mechanics as they relate to painting with oils, I am confidently ready to dive in. The examples of "paintings" in process and finished are excellent. Despite the title, this book will be indispensable for any colored pencil subject
With this examination of the medium, the supplies and the color mechanics as they relate to painting with oils, I am confidently ready to dive in. The examples of "paintings" in process and finished are excellent. Despite the title, this book will be indispensable for any colored pencil subject
January 7, 2017
Thank you to Net Galley, who gave me an opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.
As someone who has been trying to improve her colored pencil portraits, I was excited to read this book. It ended up being very informative. The techniques the author uses are clearly explained. Not just how to employ it, but why it works. I will try out a few for myself.
The last bit of the book has a few tutorials with a tool list and full instructions. You are encouraged to follow along to help you learn the techniques. I'm thinking however that most beginner and intermediate level learners (who I think would benefit most) will not already have pencils both wax and oil and differing brands. Which would make it a bit expensive for in that case. So, not really sure about the practicality of that bit.
I would recommend this to beginning and intermediate portrait artists and artists who want to try out a new medium.
As someone who has been trying to improve her colored pencil portraits, I was excited to read this book. It ended up being very informative. The techniques the author uses are clearly explained. Not just how to employ it, but why it works. I will try out a few for myself.
The last bit of the book has a few tutorials with a tool list and full instructions. You are encouraged to follow along to help you learn the techniques. I'm thinking however that most beginner and intermediate level learners (who I think would benefit most) will not already have pencils both wax and oil and differing brands. Which would make it a bit expensive for in that case. So, not really sure about the practicality of that bit.
I would recommend this to beginning and intermediate portrait artists and artists who want to try out a new medium.
December 26, 2016
Realistic paintings and drawings have always amazed me.
When I was able to draw, I've understood the dedication and long hours you need to reach a good level. It's about patience, time and technics.
In this book, the author gives you great tip to blend the colors to obtain a beautiful realistic outcome on portrait. Alyona Nickelsen explains the pigment, the material you need to use as well as how to draw and add the color to be satisfied with the result.
She has created a great book with easy to understand explanations that really motivates you to put your hands on a paper and start applying her advices.
Very interesting and cool book!
Lucie
http://newbooksonmyselves.blogspot.fr...
When I was able to draw, I've understood the dedication and long hours you need to reach a good level. It's about patience, time and technics.
In this book, the author gives you great tip to blend the colors to obtain a beautiful realistic outcome on portrait. Alyona Nickelsen explains the pigment, the material you need to use as well as how to draw and add the color to be satisfied with the result.
She has created a great book with easy to understand explanations that really motivates you to put your hands on a paper and start applying her advices.
Very interesting and cool book!
Lucie
http://newbooksonmyselves.blogspot.fr...
January 23, 2017
Thank you to Watson-Guptill Publications for providing an advanced review copy of this book in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
I am very impressed by the wealth of information on colored pencils as a medium for painting in Colored Pencil Painting Portraits: Master a Revolutionary Method for Rendering Depth and Imitating Life by Alyona Nickelsen. I have always considered pencils a drawing tool, but the knowledge I gained from the book will enable me to truly paint and layer color with colored pencils. The book provides a vast amount of information regarding the qualities of the medium and specific techniques for the for portraiture. Anyone interested in creating beautiful works of art with colored pencils should get this book as an invaluable reference.
I am very impressed by the wealth of information on colored pencils as a medium for painting in Colored Pencil Painting Portraits: Master a Revolutionary Method for Rendering Depth and Imitating Life by Alyona Nickelsen. I have always considered pencils a drawing tool, but the knowledge I gained from the book will enable me to truly paint and layer color with colored pencils. The book provides a vast amount of information regarding the qualities of the medium and specific techniques for the for portraiture. Anyone interested in creating beautiful works of art with colored pencils should get this book as an invaluable reference.
May 8, 2018
This book was very informational and full of easy to understand instruction. I really was surprised. I will have to refer back to it during my artistic endeavors.
January 14, 2022
Alyona Nickelsen is a true innovator. Every time I read this it makes me want to go on an art supply shopping spree, and learn all the techniques. XD One day...
There's so much information in this book. So much technical, color... science... stuff that I'm not sure I'll ever wrap my brain around, but I learn more every time I read it. (Should probably own this book. XD)
So, yeah. If you're interested in taking your colored pencil artwork to the next level—or maybe like, ten levels up—definitely check out this book. (I will give a disclaimer, because she studies the Great Masters, so there is one or two nude paintings in there.)
There's so much information in this book. So much technical, color... science... stuff that I'm not sure I'll ever wrap my brain around, but I learn more every time I read it. (Should probably own this book. XD)
So, yeah. If you're interested in taking your colored pencil artwork to the next level—or maybe like, ten levels up—definitely check out this book. (I will give a disclaimer, because she studies the Great Masters, so there is one or two nude paintings in there.)
October 9, 2020
Dramatic, beautiful painting with colored pencils!
This book is amazing! I had no idea artwork with colored pencils had advanced to this level. The book gives all the information I could imagine someone might need to learn from from products to use through instructions. The illustrations/artwork provided is just extraordinary to me. So glad I checked this book out.
This book is amazing! I had no idea artwork with colored pencils had advanced to this level. The book gives all the information I could imagine someone might need to learn from from products to use through instructions. The illustrations/artwork provided is just extraordinary to me. So glad I checked this book out.
July 19, 2017
"Hypeness" Rating: 3.5
Book received through Blogging for Books
*Full reviews on thebookuniverse.weebly.com*
Summary:
Colored pencil painter Alyona Nickelsen reveals how to use the medium to push the limits of realistic portraiture.
Colored Pencil Painting Portraits provides straightforward solutions to the problems that artists face in creating lifelike images, and will prime readers on the intricacies of color, texture, shadow, and light as they interplay with the human form. In this truly comprehensive guide packed with step-by-step demonstrations, Nickelsen considers working from photo references versus live models; provides guidance on posing and lighting, as well as planning and composing a work; discusses tools, materials, and revolutionary layering techniques; and offers lessons on capturing gesture and expression and on rendering facial and body features of people of all age groups and skin tones.
My Review:
Recently I become interested in the art of color pencils. When I saw this book, I knew right away that I wanted to learn more about it. Little did I know that this book is for more experienced people and actually knew what all the terminology and supplies that are used. All that I had were the cheap low-quality erasable color pencils. Alyona Nickelsen goes pretty deep in explaining every single thing with great detail. This instruction book went in great depth and provides you several tips and techniques to make your color pencil art more realistic. Ms.Nickelsen gives information on the perfect tools to use and the best type of paper to use for color pencil art. Additionally, provides some guidance on how to perfect facial and body features as well. I really liked how she included the step-by-step demonstrations as well. Even though mine didn't turn out as stunning as hers did, it still gave me some insight on how the paintings should turn out from beginning to end. I really appreciated Ms. Nickelsen's input on how to create incredible realistic portraits. I felt as if this book was far to advance for beginners. This book will truly benefit intermediate artists. Besides that, this book was phenomenal. I will probably go back and look at some of tips and tricks she provided in the near future. I really do recommend this book to artists and aspiring artists! Thank you once again to Blogging for Books for providing me a copy of this fantastic book.
Book received through Blogging for Books
*Full reviews on thebookuniverse.weebly.com*
Summary:
Colored pencil painter Alyona Nickelsen reveals how to use the medium to push the limits of realistic portraiture.
Colored Pencil Painting Portraits provides straightforward solutions to the problems that artists face in creating lifelike images, and will prime readers on the intricacies of color, texture, shadow, and light as they interplay with the human form. In this truly comprehensive guide packed with step-by-step demonstrations, Nickelsen considers working from photo references versus live models; provides guidance on posing and lighting, as well as planning and composing a work; discusses tools, materials, and revolutionary layering techniques; and offers lessons on capturing gesture and expression and on rendering facial and body features of people of all age groups and skin tones.
My Review:
Recently I become interested in the art of color pencils. When I saw this book, I knew right away that I wanted to learn more about it. Little did I know that this book is for more experienced people and actually knew what all the terminology and supplies that are used. All that I had were the cheap low-quality erasable color pencils. Alyona Nickelsen goes pretty deep in explaining every single thing with great detail. This instruction book went in great depth and provides you several tips and techniques to make your color pencil art more realistic. Ms.Nickelsen gives information on the perfect tools to use and the best type of paper to use for color pencil art. Additionally, provides some guidance on how to perfect facial and body features as well. I really liked how she included the step-by-step demonstrations as well. Even though mine didn't turn out as stunning as hers did, it still gave me some insight on how the paintings should turn out from beginning to end. I really appreciated Ms. Nickelsen's input on how to create incredible realistic portraits. I felt as if this book was far to advance for beginners. This book will truly benefit intermediate artists. Besides that, this book was phenomenal. I will probably go back and look at some of tips and tricks she provided in the near future. I really do recommend this book to artists and aspiring artists! Thank you once again to Blogging for Books for providing me a copy of this fantastic book.
July 21, 2017
Being a graphic designer, I have the opportunity to experiment with various mediums to create art. My preferred method is digital, but I've been longing to attempt art forms in colored pencils. There is a stack of prismacolor pencils I have stacked in a jar on my desk, begging to be used.
Thus, when I selected this book to read and review I was looking forward to seeing how it would assist me. Of course, my initial impression was that it was for some far more advanced than my own miniscule talents. But that said, I was impressed with the book.
First off, the book itself speaks quality. There was no skimping on paper nor on the cover. It is perfect as a companion piece or even as a coffee table book. Although, I prefer it with my other books on art to share with fellow artists.
For me, what I fell in love with the book, is that it can be used as a guide for those just into the colored pencil aspect of drawing, or for those who are farther into the field and want to improve upon their skill. But again, remember, I'm not a professional so for those with many more years experience may not find it as captivating as I did.
What I liked about it was the way it was written. It didn't write down to me, expecting me to already know so much about pencil portrait drawing. It guided me, encouraged me, made me want to grab a pencil and learn so much more about the drawing with colored pencils. I'm ready to draw!
I received this book from the publisher via Blogging for Books. All opinions are my own.
Thus, when I selected this book to read and review I was looking forward to seeing how it would assist me. Of course, my initial impression was that it was for some far more advanced than my own miniscule talents. But that said, I was impressed with the book.
First off, the book itself speaks quality. There was no skimping on paper nor on the cover. It is perfect as a companion piece or even as a coffee table book. Although, I prefer it with my other books on art to share with fellow artists.
For me, what I fell in love with the book, is that it can be used as a guide for those just into the colored pencil aspect of drawing, or for those who are farther into the field and want to improve upon their skill. But again, remember, I'm not a professional so for those with many more years experience may not find it as captivating as I did.
What I liked about it was the way it was written. It didn't write down to me, expecting me to already know so much about pencil portrait drawing. It guided me, encouraged me, made me want to grab a pencil and learn so much more about the drawing with colored pencils. I'm ready to draw!
I received this book from the publisher via Blogging for Books. All opinions are my own.
August 22, 2017
This is an amazing book! It's hard to believe that the portraits are done with colored pencils. I sat in awe of each and every portrait in the book.
The book starts by sharing the products that the author recommends and uses to create these masterpieces. I love how each product is described and what it's used for. There are so many things I didn't even know were available to make creating your colored pencil pieces work the way you want and to stand out in the end.
She goes into so many wonderful step-by-step procedures that make it easy to create your own portrait. She explains lighting, posing, the elements of facial features and more. The great thing about this book is you'll be able to use the techniques for more than portraits.
I highly recommend this book if you want to learn how to create beautiful portraits in colored pencil. I learned so much from this amazing book and have been able to implement these great lessons into my own art. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by the Blogging for Books
The book starts by sharing the products that the author recommends and uses to create these masterpieces. I love how each product is described and what it's used for. There are so many things I didn't even know were available to make creating your colored pencil pieces work the way you want and to stand out in the end.
She goes into so many wonderful step-by-step procedures that make it easy to create your own portrait. She explains lighting, posing, the elements of facial features and more. The great thing about this book is you'll be able to use the techniques for more than portraits.
I highly recommend this book if you want to learn how to create beautiful portraits in colored pencil. I learned so much from this amazing book and have been able to implement these great lessons into my own art. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
*This book was provided to me for my honest review by the Blogging for Books
August 10, 2017
I’ve always thought colored pencils were underrated, but I found them quite frustrating in my past attempts using them for realism. If I’d have had Alyona Nickelsen’s Colored Pencil Painting Portraits: Master a Revolutionary Method for Rendering Depth and Imitating Life twenty years ago, I probably wouldn’t have given up on them so easily. Every obstacle I encountered has been demonstrably removed through this book. Approaching them like oil paints, Nickelsen demonstrates ways colored pencils can be even more versatile and easier to use than any of us ever imagined. This incredibly informative, technical, scientific, and beautiful work will prove to be indispensable for any artist using (or wanting to use) colored pencils as a serious artistic medium. God bless Alyona and all the artists who follow her in elevating colored pencils in the world of art.
*I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
*I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review.
August 2, 2017
I am very new to the world of painting and even newer to the world of colored pencils which is why I was thrilled to find these amazing book. Colored Pencil Painting Portraits by Alyona Nickelsen is wonderful. I seriously devoured it. It is chuck full of information from tools, mediums, to controlling color, light and undertones, and all kinds of techniques. It also has great pictures that are inspiring.
Each chapter breaks down the information making it easy to go back and focus on each part as you go. They are labeled which helps if you want to work on undertones for example you can easily go back and look through that section.
As a beginner I found this book helpful and informative. I will be referring to it often when I paint and draw.
https://aseasonofbooks.wordpress.com/...
Each chapter breaks down the information making it easy to go back and focus on each part as you go. They are labeled which helps if you want to work on undertones for example you can easily go back and look through that section.
As a beginner I found this book helpful and informative. I will be referring to it often when I paint and draw.
https://aseasonofbooks.wordpress.com/...
July 16, 2017
I am so grateful to the publisher for my review copy of this book. I am a portrait artist myself, but I normally paint in watercolors. I learned so much with this book, even tips I can take back to my watercolors. The most exciting part is that I'm now inspired to give some other mediums a try. Lots of gorgeous photos and very thorough instructions.
January 6, 2018
Wow! If you are an artist, read this book. You can see my full review here: https://14tothefullest.wordpress.com/...
June 20, 2017
Colored Pencil Painting Portraits, Master a Revolutionary Method for Rendering Depth and Imitating Life. Alyona Nickelsen
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: non fiction
Like many artists I’ve accumulated a mass of materials. Some artists stick to one medium, I like to try anything and everything so my summerhouse/studio is crammed with materials.
Not so expensive as it seems, I paint for fun, sell a few, and from the start any sales I made support new materials. Throw in birthdays and xmas and it soon adds up. In among them I’ve some watercolour pencils, some like traditional ones, some very waxy. I hadn’t really considered soft and oil pastels as pencils either, but in a way they fit the description. I do like the immediacy of these, the way my hand is on the canvas without the brush barrier in the way.
In this book Alyona tells us about different types of pencil and ways of making them last. The traditional sharpening method is incredibly wasteful, something I hadn’t realised. Also I’ve used sandpaper and gesso treated board with soft pastels, but never thought of using coloured pencils on them.
As with all materials the quality varies considerably, and my ethos is to always buy the best you can afford.
I’ve seen people very dispirited with their paintings, when they’re trying to use cheap, thin paper, grainy poster paints, pound shop brushes etc. Nan always used to say “you can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear,” and that’s really true with art materials. Better to buy a dozen top quality basic colours and learn how to blend them, than a fifty pack of cheap pencils. Those will fade, won’t blend easily and the colours will be bland as they’ve little real pigment. Another of Nan’s adages – “cheap always comes dear in the end”, where money is wasted if you can’t use what you’ve bought, and end up spending more on getting what you balked against buying because of cost.
I’m certainly going to get my pencils out again and play. One of the issues I found was that once I’d added a layer of colour its difficult to get a second one on, unless I used it very lightly, and almost impossible to add a third as the tooth of the paper was covered. Alyona mentions a fixative that gives another sort of coating over the colours, without spoiling them, but allowing more colour to be applied on top. That’s really useful, and great for whites and other pale highlights. I’m a bit of a spontaneous artist, add the pencil, paint, whatever, and work along making the painting up as I work. That means so often I’ve already coloured over where I later decide I want a highlight, but now with some fixative I can add it.
There is lots of advice on portraits of course, from how to pose the sitter, to how best to flatter them without losing the identity of the sitter.
Techniques too are covered with some wonderful step by step illustrations, and lots of completed paintings with tips.
I’d never thought of using a medium or physical shaper for blending either, as I do with paint, only ever used fingers, and that gives yet another different effect.
Pencils are such a great medium for taking out and painting outdoors, easy to transport, very little needed except pencils, support and maybe some fix and blenders. I’ve done a little of that using my sketches for further paintings in other mediums, but of course now I see how I can use them to create artworks in their own right.
I think one of the issues facing those promoting their use is that they are still seen as very much a child’s toy, very limited in application for artists, when in fact after reading this book I can see they are incredibly versatile.
Its a mindset thing, something that takes time to change but with fabulous portraits like the ones in this book we can see just how versatile pencils can be.
Stars: Five, a fabulous addition to the artists library
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: non fiction
Like many artists I’ve accumulated a mass of materials. Some artists stick to one medium, I like to try anything and everything so my summerhouse/studio is crammed with materials.
Not so expensive as it seems, I paint for fun, sell a few, and from the start any sales I made support new materials. Throw in birthdays and xmas and it soon adds up. In among them I’ve some watercolour pencils, some like traditional ones, some very waxy. I hadn’t really considered soft and oil pastels as pencils either, but in a way they fit the description. I do like the immediacy of these, the way my hand is on the canvas without the brush barrier in the way.
In this book Alyona tells us about different types of pencil and ways of making them last. The traditional sharpening method is incredibly wasteful, something I hadn’t realised. Also I’ve used sandpaper and gesso treated board with soft pastels, but never thought of using coloured pencils on them.
As with all materials the quality varies considerably, and my ethos is to always buy the best you can afford.
I’ve seen people very dispirited with their paintings, when they’re trying to use cheap, thin paper, grainy poster paints, pound shop brushes etc. Nan always used to say “you can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear,” and that’s really true with art materials. Better to buy a dozen top quality basic colours and learn how to blend them, than a fifty pack of cheap pencils. Those will fade, won’t blend easily and the colours will be bland as they’ve little real pigment. Another of Nan’s adages – “cheap always comes dear in the end”, where money is wasted if you can’t use what you’ve bought, and end up spending more on getting what you balked against buying because of cost.
I’m certainly going to get my pencils out again and play. One of the issues I found was that once I’d added a layer of colour its difficult to get a second one on, unless I used it very lightly, and almost impossible to add a third as the tooth of the paper was covered. Alyona mentions a fixative that gives another sort of coating over the colours, without spoiling them, but allowing more colour to be applied on top. That’s really useful, and great for whites and other pale highlights. I’m a bit of a spontaneous artist, add the pencil, paint, whatever, and work along making the painting up as I work. That means so often I’ve already coloured over where I later decide I want a highlight, but now with some fixative I can add it.
There is lots of advice on portraits of course, from how to pose the sitter, to how best to flatter them without losing the identity of the sitter.
Techniques too are covered with some wonderful step by step illustrations, and lots of completed paintings with tips.
I’d never thought of using a medium or physical shaper for blending either, as I do with paint, only ever used fingers, and that gives yet another different effect.
Pencils are such a great medium for taking out and painting outdoors, easy to transport, very little needed except pencils, support and maybe some fix and blenders. I’ve done a little of that using my sketches for further paintings in other mediums, but of course now I see how I can use them to create artworks in their own right.
I think one of the issues facing those promoting their use is that they are still seen as very much a child’s toy, very limited in application for artists, when in fact after reading this book I can see they are incredibly versatile.
Its a mindset thing, something that takes time to change but with fabulous portraits like the ones in this book we can see just how versatile pencils can be.
Stars: Five, a fabulous addition to the artists library
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers
June 22, 2017
This was a book I was honestly interested in reading from a purely learning viewpoint. Colored pencils aren’t a medium I typically use often. So, it was only a given that I wanted to know more about what could and couldn’t be done with them from the perspective of someone passionate about the medium. When I saw Alyona Nickelsen’s new book available for review, of course I signed up for it. I’m glad I did, because Colored Pencil Painting Portraits: Master a Revolutionary Method for Rendering Depth and Imitating Life was a comprehensive look at the art of creating portraits not with paint, but with colored pencil. Alyona’s process—techniques and paper preference among other things—was truly interesting to read about.
I’ve always liked colored pencils, but after reading this book I’ve got a new respect for the medium. Nickelsen is truly a pioneer in colored pencil art. She didn’t just learn how to create amazing pieces, but she also studied her medium too. Her writing showed her enthusiasm and technical know-how on the subject in a concise and organized manner. One of my favorite quotes was from the afterword of this book:
“Making and implementing a goal (in art and beyond) is sometimes not that straightforward, but if you know what you like, you are already halfway there. The other half is just figuring out how to get there.”(p.172).
There’s just something I find so inspiring about the above passage. I think it has to do with the fact that advice like that can apply not just to art, but writing (and blogging, Etc.) as well. And while I will use colored pencils more, my focus is still on working with watercolor and gouache. However, this book still had a lot of good advice, and gave me a lot to think about in terms of how I layer and mix my colors. Suffice it to say, I will definitely keep this one on my shelf for future reference.
Disclaimer: this copy of the book was provided by Blogging For Books (Publisher) for this review, thank you!
Review First Posted Here
I’ve always liked colored pencils, but after reading this book I’ve got a new respect for the medium. Nickelsen is truly a pioneer in colored pencil art. She didn’t just learn how to create amazing pieces, but she also studied her medium too. Her writing showed her enthusiasm and technical know-how on the subject in a concise and organized manner. One of my favorite quotes was from the afterword of this book:
“Making and implementing a goal (in art and beyond) is sometimes not that straightforward, but if you know what you like, you are already halfway there. The other half is just figuring out how to get there.”(p.172).
There’s just something I find so inspiring about the above passage. I think it has to do with the fact that advice like that can apply not just to art, but writing (and blogging, Etc.) as well. And while I will use colored pencils more, my focus is still on working with watercolor and gouache. However, this book still had a lot of good advice, and gave me a lot to think about in terms of how I layer and mix my colors. Suffice it to say, I will definitely keep this one on my shelf for future reference.
Disclaimer: this copy of the book was provided by Blogging For Books (Publisher) for this review, thank you!
Review First Posted Here
June 27, 2017
This book will deepen your knowledge about tools and materials as well as teach you new techniques and methods for achieving realism and giving depth to your drawings (with emphasis on portraits). It contains step by step examples, plenty of images and a very helpful chart about the blending abilities of several pencil brands when combined with various types of solvents.
I learned a lot about the tools and materials; their use, potential, limitations and interactions. Some of them I didn't even know existed and now I cant wait to try out (powder blender, ACP, etc). All the tips, techniques and instructions provided in the book made me realize how much more can be achieved with colored pencils but, what made this book unique and a must, is the use of a layering technique that takes inspiration from the traditional oil painting practices by the Great Masters which the author incorporates into her colored pencil portraits. It goes without saying that, after reading this book, I see my colored pencils in a new light.
I learned a lot about the tools and materials; their use, potential, limitations and interactions. Some of them I didn't even know existed and now I cant wait to try out (powder blender, ACP, etc). All the tips, techniques and instructions provided in the book made me realize how much more can be achieved with colored pencils but, what made this book unique and a must, is the use of a layering technique that takes inspiration from the traditional oil painting practices by the Great Masters which the author incorporates into her colored pencil portraits. It goes without saying that, after reading this book, I see my colored pencils in a new light.
August 24, 2017
I picked this book out because I like using colored pencils when I draw. To be honest, this book I would say is for artists that have been drawing for a long time and not for a beginner. Don’t get me wrong, this book was well written and had many pictures to look at. I enjoyed looking at them as well but that is all I could do. I also liked that there were examples of other famous painters pictures to look at for examples.
I would recommend this book for artist who would consider themselves better that a beginner. Alyona Nickelson should make a book just like this but she should gear it towards beginners.
Over all the book had good examples, detailed pictures, and a few helpful tips.
I would recommend this book for artist who would consider themselves better that a beginner. Alyona Nickelson should make a book just like this but she should gear it towards beginners.
Over all the book had good examples, detailed pictures, and a few helpful tips.
June 29, 2017
I am always amazed by how some artists are able to render a realistic portrait. As an amateur artist with many more talented artist family members, I know how hard it is to portray accurate skin tones and details. This book helps amateur as well as artists of more experience master using colored pencils to complete portraits. A very helpful book full of illustrations of the techniques as well as step-by-step guides to portraits already mastered by the author.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 1, 2022
This book is excellent at describing in great detail how to complete portraits in colored pencil. She goes into great detail about how to use and blend various brands of pencils. She is very technical which I like. With that said, it can be a bit intimidating for a beginner. I think it would be best to start with Altoona’s first book which is excellent at describing the attributes and ways to use colored pencil. Colored pencil isn’t an easy medium. It requires lots of practice, so beginners just need to allow themselves time to make lots of mistakes. But it is fun to play with!
June 16, 2017
A little advance book for aspiring painters. A great many tips for setting, hues and lighting. Detailed description, as I mentioned it is quite advanced. Honestly speaking pictures look amazing and dissection of old art is useful too.
August 23, 2017
This book is a great reference tool for exploring the colored pencil medium. Alyona Nickelsen's portraits are gorgeous, and her techniques are broken down in an understandable manner. I majored in art, and I still found new tactics and information in this book that I'm excited to try out!
May 13, 2019
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Whilst I love Ayona Nickelsen's portrait work and her previous book, Colored Pencil Bible, this book seemed to me to be mostly a promotion for the products she manufactures and sells.
Whilst I love Ayona Nickelsen's portrait work and her previous book, Colored Pencil Bible, this book seemed to me to be mostly a promotion for the products she manufactures and sells.
November 14, 2018
Great techniques.
February 18, 2021
Well written, informative and innovative.
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