Many art books cover just one subject such as landscapes, or specialize further by showing you how to paint trees, or skies or buildings. This book concentrates on how to paint in watercolors—in a wide range of subjects.

This approach is certainly more what I was after as a beginner, and also as an improver. I have never been into specializing too much, so Mr Bellamy is surely a man after my own heart!  To start with, this is not a book that advocates buying a lot of superfluous items; instead the author mentions that it is too easy these days to do just that.  After this brief introduction and shopping list he then jumps in with both feet, showing how to lay a wash, mix paints, compose a good picture and even paint a simple scene. I like the way this gets you moving and actually painting without bogging the reader down with too much theory; painting is a practical subject. Thereafter the book splits into chapters, each dealing with a different area of painting. These include still life, florals, figure studies, landscapes and more, and are dealt with, not in great depth but with some sensible advice that is likely to be of use when deciding whether or not you fancy having a go. Each picture or sketch featured is described in some detail, and of course here too are some staged paintings to paint yourself. Add to this advice about painting outside and on vacation as well as what not to do and you have a good, user-friendly primer on watercolor painting. This would make a grand present for anybody you know who wants to take it up or has done some and wants to branch out.

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Reviews of other titles by this author

Complete Guide To Watercolour Painting
Mountains and Moorlands in Watercolour
Skies, Light and Atmosphere in Watercolor
Winter Landscapes In Watercolour