Pocket Watercolor Series: Lakes and Rivers; Forests and Woodlands. - book review

Arts & Activities, June, 2002 by Jerome J. Hausman

(2001; each $14.95), by Richard Taylor. Sterling Publishing Co., Inc., 387 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016-8810.

Watercolor is a different medium especially for students accustomed to painting with opaque colors. Students must learn to work more spontaneously, trusting the distinctive character of watercolor. Once one becomes familiar with the medium, there are marvelous possibilities for capturing the mood and character of natural settings. No wonder, thousands upon thousands of artists (professionals and amateurs) spend long periods of time working with watercolors.

Richard Taylor, an experienced artist and teacher has authored two books: Lakes and Rivers and Forests and Woodlands that deal with the techniques and processes of doing watercolors in these settings. The books are pocket-sized for easy use while on location. The books are well illustrated with paintings by Taylor. Each work also includes sidebar information about the particular technique being demonstrated.

These are books for advanced high school or perhaps college-level students. They require readers who are themselves committed to exploring and experimenting with what can be done with watercolors in natural settings.--J.J.H. For information about this publication, circle No. 391 on the Reader Service Card.