LANDSCAPE PAINTING:
ESSENTIAL CONCEPTS AND TECHNIQUES FOR PLEIN AIR AND STUDIO PRACTICE

How is Landscape Painting different from other books of this genre?

The author covers many topics in depth that are only touched upon in other books or not covered at all:

• Simplification and Massing, perhaps the most essential practice for landscape painting, is explored throughout, with examples, exercises, and demonstrations. Chapter 4 explore the concept fully with examples and demonstrations.
• It is the first book to explore in detail, and in practical terms, the critical first step in composition — Site Selection. What visual cues are necessary to create an illusion of space within a two-dimensional painting? What types of subjects translate best into painting and what types of subjects should be avoided?
• The chapter on Color and Light explores color theory as it specifically relates to landscape painting. Learn how value effects color identity and how it can be used to infuse your landscapes with an aura of natural light. Understand harmony, atmosphere, and the differences between naturalistic color and expressive color.
• The book makes an authoritative and eloquent case for the contemporary underpainting (or "wipeout") method — a highly effective and reliable technique for beginning a painting. With comprehensive step-by-step instructions.
• A full chapter is devoted to Working with Photographs. What are the requirements for a good reference photo? What are the fatal "don'ts?" Learn how image editing software (such as Photoshop) can be used to creatively to suggest ways of simplifying or understanding values.
• A full chapter is devoted to the exciting area of Abstracting Nature. What is abstraction and how can the painter produce it?
• Style, Inspiration and Lifelong Learning. The concluding chapter is devoted to the more personal aspects of one's practice: The meaning of subject, honing one's vision, style, dealing with frustration, and staying motivated and inspired.