Although art has never been my forte, I can telephone doodle with the best of them. In addition, when I've tried automatic writing . . . look it up, if you don't know what that is . . . instead of written words, I end up doing elaborate sketches . . . that look like really nothing. Still, I'm not sure why I wanted to read this book by Felix Scheinberger. I'm glad I did, though, because it's an excellent primer for those who want to sketch, but don't know where to begin.
You apparently begin with a sketchbook. Herr Scheinberger guides the reader through the world of sketchbooks, as well as through the choices of pens, pencils and paint. Then, he goes on to offer advice about keeping a sketchbook, and explores the various subjects one might want to draw. Interestingly, he also points out that a sketcher, like a photographer, must be careful about drawing strangers in public places. Some subjects may not like that happening, or not understand what the artist is doing.
Felix Scheinberger's book is highly readable and highly helpful. I'd like to add highly motivating, except I don't see myself getting a sketchbook and pens right now. As the author points out, some people write, some people shoot photographs and some people draw. Of course, some people do two or all three of those things, too. I've always tended to write and shoot photos, and got a new Canon camera last month I'm just starting to use.
Thus, it may be a while until I get a sketchbook. Yet, when and if I do, I now know what type is the best, as well as the pros and cons of the instruments used. Plus, I know to just sketch and not worry about how good or bad the sketch happens to be. Every drawing is a reflection of what's going on in the life of the sketcher, what has caught her or his attention and motivated her or him to draw.
(Note: I received a free e-copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher or author.)