Shape and Light Value (Watercolor Basics)
Chinkok Tan has painted and taught for more than 40 years. InWatercolor Basics: Shape and Light Value,he shows the art student how to see and simplify one's subjects. Tan suggests that every subject "reveals itself in light values and shapes. When you finish this book, you should be able to paint anything without sketching." An introduction to supplies provides the tools needed to get started for under 80 dollars, and a primer on techniques describes painting sources and how to lay a flat wash. Tan begins his lessons by explaining light values (color) and how to mix them. He teaches the painter to abandon outlining one's subjects and to instead focus on painting correct shapes and silhouettes. He then presents a three-step process of painting shape, shade, and detail; how to use higher or lower values for varying effects; and how to build harmonious compositions. The book closes with complete step-by-step painting demonstrations. Tan's method is simple, straightforward, and easy to grasp, yet he achieves surprisingly sophisticated and refreshing painted effects, as in the waxy sheen of green and red apples poised in a luminous glass bowl. Tan asserts, "I can say with absolute certainty that painting is a skill anybody with interest can learn. It has nothing to do with talent or gift." This book of basic techniques is ideal for the beginning painter, but will also prove of benefit to more experienced artists who wish to revisit fundamental lessons of perception and "trusting the eye."--Mary Ribesky