The Complete Guide to Art Materials and Techniques

Confused by the vast array of art materials out there? Unsure how to distinguish between those you must have to create your art and others that might be a wasted expense? Looking to try out a new medium but don't know where to start? If so, you've come to the right source! The Complete Guide to Art Materials and Techniques is the ultimate guide through the maze of art materials available, and an invaluable reference for aspiring artists and accomplished professionals alike.

Using the right tools and materials are a cornerstone of success for amateur and expert artists alike. With a broad choice of mediums discussed in depth, everything from airbrush artists to tempura painters are covered. Every artist is provided a comprehensive analysis of the function and performance of the most popular art materials in the market today, including oils, watercolors, inks, acrylics, canvases, palettes, papers, and much more.

Organized by medium, each chapter contains practical information about basic composition, tools, and methods of application plus step-by-step demonstrations. Specifics are branched out upon, such as the use of thickness in oil painting or how to draw without a brush in print making.

Features a cross comparison of all the primary products available within each medium group: the characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, and costs of each product are detailed, enabling you to decide for yourself which products are worth investing in and which are not.

So take this field guide to the practical side of creating art and take the guess work out of your artistic vision.

Ian Sidaway is a British watercolor artist who has written and contributed to many books and magazines dealing with watercolor, acrylic, oil, pastel, and drawing techniques. A frequent exhibitor, his work is collected in the USA, UK, Australia, and Europe. For more information see: iansidaway.co.uk.