Drawing and Painting Animals [antikvár]

N. • ^ 4.S It's hard to learn how to paint, and the road ahead is rocky. But if you're serious and committed to the ongoing exploration and development of your creative self, be prepared for moments of exhilaration and accomplishment coupled with days of frustration, boredom, anger, and jealousy. At times you'll think you are "not quite good enough," or your paintings may turn out completely different from the way you saw them in your head. You'll also make many mistakes along the way, but the fact that you're frustrated means you're struggling to learn and grow and explore. The lesson to be learned from this is simple: Never settle for pretty pictures or paint only what sells. Your highest artistic achievement depends on holding true to your vision and artistic passion. Since not every technique is right for every artist, by including in this book many different ways of working I have made sure there is something here for everyone—beginners and professionals alike. The material in this book combines my own techniques and ideas with those of several other talented wildlife artists—some of the greatest living artists I've ever known-and I'm honored to have their work appear here. There's also another reason for including them: Every artist in this book has an individual, personal, and passionate approach to his art, a dynamic presence. The book is also much more than a technical how-to manual. It is filled with some of the most commonly overlooked aspects of the creative process that lie at the core of a successful painting. If I have done my job right, you'll be left not only with the knowledge of how to draw and paint animals but, more importantly, you'll be inspired to jump right into it. So, strap yourself in and enjoy the ride. The result of your struggles can be rewarding beyond your wildest expectations. You are creating art only you can create-your touch will be different from everyone else's. And when you're able to step back from a painting you created and say "Wow, I did that," the reward is already there.