Buildings

In January l999 we are relaunching the bestselling Learn to Draw series of beginners' drawing books with bright, modern covers. Drawing is an essential skill for all artists and this book makes learning to draw buildings as simple as possible. All the basics are covered to provide a sound foundation in drawing techniques, and numerous attractive illustrations and step-by-step drawings show how these are put into practice. This book includes practical information * tools and equipment * space and perspective * composition * drawing interiors * working on location * portraying street life Perfect for total beginners, Learn to Draw Buildings will also be valuable to more experienced artists wanting to improve their drawing skills.

The new HarperCollins "Learn To Draw" series contains more than a dozen slim, inexpensive volumes, each devoted to a single genre. Cook's book on buildings is a good introduction to basic drawing tools and materials, with brief demonstrations and tips. The volume suffers from the smallness of many of the illustrations and the resulting loss of detail. An earlier effort by Michael Woods, The Complete Drawing Course: How You Can Master All the Techniques of Drawing in Just 25 Minutes (Batsford, 1995) is broader in scope and a better value. For those who want to render buildings in watercolor, Taylor's book is an unequivocal success. A member of the Society of Architectural Illustrators, Taylor has created a sumptuous work, rich in detailed images, and, moreover, complete with a brilliant text. For readers who wonder how a particular shadow is splashed over a stucco wall or how to get small panes in sunlight to look like real glass, Taylor reveals the color values and techniques necessary. Highly recommended, for beginning or advanced artists.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.