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1: This Book Is Excellent
I purchased this book recently and it is excellent. Although I read the one star review beforehand which complained that it doesn't cover "painting the nude from life" it didn't do anything to disuade me. In fact, it helped to convince me TO buy it because I felt hopeful that this would be one of the rare books that went beyond the basics. I was not disappointed. As this is not a beginning drawing/painting book, the idea of drawing or painting the nude from life is something that at this level artists should know. (In fact, it IS briefly mentioned in the beginning of the book that one SHOULD paint the nude from life as much as possible. How much more needs to be said to an intermediate/advanced audience?) Personally, I am tired of art books that are geared towards experienced artists yet they do nothing more than repeat the same rudimentary information ad nauseum. It is clear when a book is for beginners (this is not) and that is where that information would be appropriate. It is refershing that Virgil Elliot did not feel the need to repeat beginner information excessively and wrote to his audience with the expectation that they have some knowledge of the subject. It is a respectably thorough book on traditional methods and materials, covering an array of historical styles and techniques. It is well researched and clearly explained. There really needs to be more books of this caliber. Thank you, Mr. Elliot.
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2: must have book
I can't say enough good things about this book. It goes into great detail about so many important things. This book should be in every artists library.
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3: Mediocre work
My impression is based on looking at the pictures on the author's web site. They are wooden and uninspired. He is technically adept in some respects, but altogether is work is not better than that of many art school students. Technique does not make a picture speak. Why even bother with the book?
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4: Excellent Reference Book
This is not a "how-to" book; it is an excellent reference book to keep within reach when you are working. The older books are so obscure, so difficult to try to understand (I am thinking of the Doerner book in particular) and based on speculation about the techniques and materials used by the masters of the past. Mr. Elliott has kept abreast of discoveries by conservators in the major museums using the most up to date, sophisticated technology; as well as the continuous testing of other experts in various fields (Paint manufacturers) and the ASTM. That is why he can warn about using zinc white; how and when to use the umbers; how to organize your pigments and use them according to their innate characteristics; the safe support to use for your painting; why some paintings from the '70s are falling off the canvas, etc. Again, it is an invaluable reference tool. I think other reviewers have been thinking of it more in terms of a how-to book, rather than as nuts-and-bolts information to bring to your own artwork.
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5: Traditional Oil Painting: A Wonderful Book
The book is quite well written with several excellent tips for advanced oil painters and superb illustrations. The author is modest and knowledgeable, sharing insights about the mysteries of painting as well as several practical solutions to composition questions and palette references.
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