Capturing Light in Acrylics

With this celebration of luminosity and color, artists can see how to use acrylics to catch light, capture mood, and build atmosphere. The inspiration and instructions come from John Hammond, one of the most successful painters in acrylics today. He uses more than 100 of his own paintings—some shown in various stages—to illustrate the techniques and reveal the many possibilities of this flexible and increasingly popular medium. As well as presenting an overview of materials and methods specific to acrylics, Hammond addresses issues of composition, color, and texture. He deals with working on location and discusses a wide variety of themes, including: Water, Boats and Beaches; City Views; Mediterranean Light; and Figures in Light and Shade.

Library Journal

Many artists believe that the key to creating drama, depth, and believability in their work is light. These books offer two different approaches. Hammond favors the versatility of acrylics for capturing light and mood. An award-winning English artist with a host of sellout exhibits to his credit, Hammond shares his thoughts on materials and techniques in a book that celebrates luminosity with paintings of Provence and Tuscany. Toogood, whose work is frequently seen in the Artist's Magazine and American Artist magazine, uses the unique attributes of watercolor for a natural, realistic look in his paintings. His brushwork is descriptive, elegant, multilayered, and detailed, and he is especially strong in the step-by-step work needed by beginning and intermediate artists. Taken together, both books will satisfy a broad spectrum of artists, from beginner to advanced, in acrylics and watercolors. Highly recommended. Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.