Paint like the masters

Copying masterpieces is a classical form of art training that fell out of favor in the modern era. This guide reconsiders the tactic and breathes new life into it through the inclusion of interactive media. The book comes with an app and a webpage that allow readers to print out copies of artworks to trace and work from; readers can also watch videos of technique in greater detail. The intention is not for the reader to produce the most accurate imitations, but rather that they may better understand the processes of successful artists by producing the paintings themselves. An introductory section outlines materials, drawing, tracing, underpainting, and the color palette, followed by 14 step-by-step projects that guide the reader through copying works by Johannes Vermeer, Edgar Degas, Georges Seurat, Peter Paul Rubens, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Claude Monet, Paul Cézanne, Vincent van Gogh, and others. For those interested in making the most authentic-looking copies, a short segment at the end instructs on patinas and other aging effects. VERDICT Beginning and intermediate artists may enjoy a return to this traditional method of learning through imitation. © Copyright 2015. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.