1950s Australia and the conservative starch is stiffening the fabric of society.Michael Keogh, son of a federal cabinet minister, feels out of place and time. His father wants to be seen in a good light, and Michael is part of his political and social ambitions.Increasingly isolated from those around him, Michael seeks refuge in the beauty and bush of Sydney harbour.Into his lonely world comes Virginia Smythe, a girl who teaches him that there is more to life than i...

Gouache is an exciting, forgiving and versatile fine art medium. It has a long history going back many centuries, but for some time it has been seen as a medium for illustrators and designers. It has now been rediscovered by the fine artist. In this beautiful book, Kevin Scully champions its cause and explores its attributes. He explains how it can be used to exciting and stunning effect when painting still life. Further topics include: understanding and using colour effectively with secti...

Working en plein-air is a French term that means literally 'in the open air' and, although artists have been doing just that for centuries, the concept is experiencing a resurgence today. Sketchers and painters alike are leaving their studios and heading out into the open air. This book encourages you to join them. Full of in-depth advice and practical instruction, it explains how to make the most of painting outside and how to capture the very essence of a scene with a far greater authent...

Learn to Paint Coastal Landscapes is a new title in the best-selling Collins Learn to Paint series. It features many step-by-step exercises and demonstration paintings of seascapes in watercolour, oils and pastels.This is a new title in Collins' recently relaunched 'Learn to Paint series'. It features many step-by-step exercises and demonstration paintings of seascapes in watercolour, gouache, oils and pastels.Ray Balkwill is a popular artist and well-respected teacher, who...

With this book in one hand and a brush in the other, you can learn how to create different finishes and effects with paint to change everyday rooms and furnishings into something special, all for the price of a pot of paint. The first section of the book tells you everything you need to know before you start - how to prepare surfaces properly, choose the right paint for the right place, use the best tools and select a colour scheme that will work with the room in question. 50 different tec...

Perfect for the aspiring artist!Covers basic techniques and guides reader to finished projectsIncludes an array of inspirational artworkCompetitive pricing, authoritative advice and a popular subject make this title a must-have for aspiring artists. Perfect for beginners and leisure artists, this book guides the reader from the most basic shapes and objects through to fully developed and varied projects. Readers will find encouraging advice and inst...

Simple secrets for colors that singDon't settle for colors that just sit there. Inspired by the work of the great Impressionists, Color Harmonies shows you how to use analogous colors (colors next to each other on the color wheel) and their complements to achieve lively, glowing effects. By keeping palette-mixing to a minimum, placing pure color notes side by side, and applying other simple but powerful color tricks, you'll create sparkling passages of col...

A wide range of techniques borrowed from both traditional and digital art has recently begun to blend into one art form, known as altered art. The Complete Guide to Altered Imagery is the only book currently on the market that provides fascinating tips and creative ideas solely focused on this new form of art. An in-depth discussion manipulation techniques is supplied, making this an essential handbook for all artists and crafters looking for creative ways to alter and enhance various type...

A must-have reference for anyone who draws!This is your complete guide to drawing-packed with everything you need to know about materials, techniques and drawing styles. Learn the secrets to rendering any subject, and quickly find the answers to common problems and questions so that you can get back to the drawing board. Secrets of Drawing, Start to Finish is a handy, one-stop reference that beginners and experienced artists simply can't be without.

This practical and inspirational guide, in a handy sketchbook format, is aimed at the practised beginner and shows how to achieve successful watercolour landscapes in just 30 minutes – ideal for the busy amateur artist who doesn't have much time to paint.Many people think they don't have enough time to paint, but in this attractive guide Paul Talbot-Greaves encourages quick and simple painting. By working with just a few materials and focusing on the key techniques it is possible t...

The airbrush is an essential tool for modellers striving for professional-looking results. It can greatly enhance the quality of your modelling output, whether applying a full livery scheme or simply blending in areas of new paintwork. A good airbrush will offer unparalleled levels of finish and consistency, as well as the chance to create unique effects such as weathering and stencilling.

Silver is an exciting and versatile material for jewellery makers, both beginners and the more advanced, and nothing beats the satisfaction of creating and making your own designs. This book shows you how. Full of inspiring ideas and finished pieces, it explains over forty processes including the more advanced techniques such as fold forming and keum-boo and encourages the reader to experiment with their own designs. Contents include: Step-by-step explanations with bench tips from the auth...