A personal selection of ten art books that have shaped my art.

1. 10
Best
Art
Books
A Personal Selection
by Malcolm Dewey Fine Art

2. 1. Landscape Painting Inside
And Out by Kevin Macpherson
No landscape painter's studio is complete without a copy
of this book by this world renowned artist. Macpherson
is a top plein air painter who lives his art with a generous
spirit. This book is filled with tips and demonstrations of
plein air and studio paintings. "Paint by the pound" is
one of my favorite quotes which refers to the author's
lavish use of paint to get rich textures and colors on his
canvas. I think Macpherson more than any other inspired
me to paint shapes and values instead of fiddly details. It
takes a leap of faith, but it is worth it. Try it for yourself.
(P.S. Kevin Machperson's other book "Fill Your Oil
Paintings With Light and Color" is also a keeper)

3. 2. Landscape Painting by
Mitchell Albala
This is a thorough work covering materials, approach
and process for landscape painting in and out of the
studio. Albala uses his work and that of other artists to
illustrate the essential concepts of shape, color and value.
He also covers the use of photography in painting and
how to explore the world of abstract landscape painting.
This should cover all you need to know about painting
landscapes, but as we all realise there is no end to
learning so we gladly forge on!

4. 3. The Painterly Approach by
Bob Rohm
While this book also touches on techniques it is more
useful to show us the difference between the painterly
approach and the linear "realist" approach. As you may
note I appreciate a painterly approach that emphasises
my personal way of seeing and expressing. Although
Rohm's paintings are representational he uses big
shapes, values and color for a loose and lively painting
style that gives so much more to the viewer. If you are
interested in this style then this book will help you
achieve the painterly approach.

5. 4. Paintings in Oil and
Watercolour by Jane Corsellis
This British artist is a master at both oils and watercolor.
Corsellis' book is not a how-to book, but is rather an
insight into her process. The author speaks candidly
about her reasons for painting and her approach to oils
and watercolor so that you get an idea of how to look at
your own subject. Corsellis paints landscapes, still-life
and interiors together with figure studies all with a loose
and energetic style. From composing a picture to
working through the problems of expressing her
response to the subject this book gives a unique and
personal view of the artist. The book is also lavishly
illustrated with her magnificent paintings and sketches.

6. 5. Alla Prima: Everything I
Know About Painting by
Richard Schmid
American artist Richard Schmid is considered to be one of the
world's greatest artists. So a book that professes to contain all
he knows about painting must surely be essential for your
library, not so? This book does no disappoint as it covers a wide
arc of skills and approaches to various subjects. It is not an easy
book for the beginner or the occasional painter. This book
requires your careful attention and thought to get the most
benefit from Schmid's wisdom. Make no mistake there is no
short cut to mastery and Schmid shows a tremendous work
ethic. This is good to know. Art is sublime and wonderful, but
also requires work. You will read this book many times and
learn from it over the years.

7. 6. Hawthorne on Painting
For something different the extracts from Hawthorne's
critiques of art student's work is both insightful and
instructive. Hawthorne is also an inspiration to many
great artists including Kevin Macpherson so it is worth
adding this book to your collection. Hawthorne stood out
for me with his emphasis on painting shapes of color
mixed to the correct value. There is nothing else that the
artist need do. Forget the details. Look for truth in shapes
and color. It sounds so simple yet it is perhaps one of the
greatest hurdles that new artists need to overcome. This
approach applies to portraits, landscapes and still life.
There are no illustrations in the e-book that I
downloaded, but that does not detract from the message.

8. 7. Capturing The Moment In
Oils by David Curtis and Robin
Capon
I love the honest and sympathetic approach of David
Curtis. His paintings of the English countryside evoke
peace and harmony yet they are not choc-box paintings.
His work sparkles with light and energy, full of life. Curtis
leads us through his ideas and process covering many
subjects and methods to add impact to our paintings. I do
admit to wanting to know more about the artist's
methods and you will understand this when you see how
a few of his brushstrokes creates magical color effects. It
certainly inspires, but leaves me in no doubt that what
we need as artists is consistent work and time to master
our art.

9. 8. The Art Spirit by Robert
Henri
If in doubt about the importance of art and whether you
have a contribution to make then Robert Henri's
personal philosophy will renew your own spirit. A gifted
teacher and committed artist Henri's wisdom inspired
many young artists to become masters over time. Read a
few pages each day, mark passages that inspire you and
go back to it from time to time. A panacea for a parched
artist's soul!

10. 9. An Artist Empowered: Define
and Establish You Value As An
Artist Now by Eden Maxwell
Philosophy, art and zen are woven together in this
fascinating view of the artist's personal journey. Is art
your purpose in life? Your calling? This is a profoundly
difficult question to answer in a materialist world where
we are judged in monetary terms. Fear of starving as an
artist? This book will remind you that it is your soul that
is at stake. Be brave and true to your calling.

11. 10: Gardner's Art Through the
Ages : A global History
I could not leave out this essential work for the true
student of art. The book I studied thirty years ago has
been consistently expanded and revised over the years. It
covers the development of art in it various mediums
throughout the world from pre-civilisation to present
day. An investment for sure.

12. Plus: Carlson’s Guide To
Landscape Painting
As a bonus selection: The book that every artist can
learn the fundamentals from. John F Carlson’s book
covers the essentials of value, color and composition. In
depth advice on painting trees and clouds will be
appreciated by landscape artists too. A classic.
www.malcolmdeweyfineart.com