So You Thought You Couldn't Draw

"For People Who Can't Even Draw a Straight Line," "No Talent Required" - hey, this woman knows me! From Sandra Angelo (Discover Art), comes this easy self study guide and workbook that, using a simple, four-step drawing system, transforms your skills from barely beginner to accomplished artist in a few easy lessons. I like the directions to "begin at the beginning and work your way through the book sequentially," nice and simple. It's full of irreverent pearls of wisdom, like "The race goes not to the hare but the tortoise" and "those who don't give up succeed," and (my personal favorite), "Talent is REALLY not necessary." Sandra gives us a short introduction that would give hope to even the most drawing-challenged person. If you draw for 45 minutes to one hour per day, you can finish this book in 60-90 days (if you're in a hurry to improve). Otherwise, plan on spending longer relative to the amount of time per day you can allocate to drawing. Next, a materials section acquaints us with the "tools of the trade" - some basic equipment we need to gather before jumping in. Then on to the instruction. Some of this book is reminiscent of the Draw Today program, especially the use of grids for beginning artists. As promised, the instruction is super-easy to follow and all the work can be done right in the book. Instruction progresses logically from seeing and drawing shapes, to lines, to shading, creating texture, gradation, hatching, and plenty of good practice in a lengthy additional exercise section. The methods and exercises look great, and, if I didn't have a lot to do..... But, someday, I'll actually have some time each day to use this! In the meantime, I'm hoping many aspiring artists out there will benefit from Sandra's instruction. 150 pgs. in all, with 130 black-and white photos and 25 line drawings - including plenty of "before" and "after" testimonials to show this method really works.