An Art Book by David Leffel An Artist Teaches is a magnificent presentation for painter and non-painter alike containing a gallery of more than 140 color reproductions of recent work. Paintings are presented in total—key details are pulled out to show this master’s work “up close and personal”.Gain insight from David Leffel’s highly acclaimed 35-year career as painter and instructor. Learn the importance of “painting the light” and the drama of chiaroscuro in still life, portrait and figure painting. This book presents new ways to approach and understand painting as art.Painting is about portraying the essence of the subject, this book is about the essence of painting.
What Leffel displays both in words and images here is astounding. It pronounces clarity to the brink of revelation. The clear cut reveal of his thoughts on painting are heavily bound up in his just as exact philosophy.
I feel what is being shared in this book is relative to viewing the world anew. To use Alan Watts' quote, like "viewing what is as if you didn't know how to talk". The intimacy couldn't be any stronger.
It is an irresistible offering like when someone passes you a smile and says, "let's go out there, let's go on an adventure, and let's see what happens". He simply asks that ypu drop what you know (thought you knew) about painting and take a listen.
This excitement is, of course, almost induced by Leffel's prose. And I am excited to see what else he has to share with me. it is a delightful experience.
Aside from his mastery of chiaroscuro and realist style, David Leffel is a rare artist who can articulate the process of painting and what it is to experience the world as a true artist. I highly recommend the DVD The Art of Painting. The way he handles a brush and many of the comments he makes as he paints are amazing and spot on.