60 Minutes to Better Painting: Sharpen Your Skills in Oil and Acrylic [Hardcover]

Craig Nelson (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: October 2002

Concentrating on quick studies allows painters to get to the essence of painting. This proven method focuses on the gist of the subject and the ability to make fast decisions, rather than the minute details that seem to mire some artists and prevent them from improving.

Based on more than 10 years of quick studies classes the author has taught to students of all mediums and abilities, this guide features lots of examples, step-by-step demonstrations and engaging exercises that will have readers diving right in.

After a brief explanation of how and why this painting approach works, readers will explore nine distinctive areas where quick studies will improve their painting, including:

-Editing and Brush Confidence

-Color and Composition Exploration

-Lighting effects

-Capturing new subjects

-Basic practice and recreation

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Craig Nelson has been painting for more than thirty years in both oils and acrylics. He has exhibited and done commissions all over the US, Canada, Europe and Japan. He has won over 200 awards of excellence and is a member of Oil Painters of America. Craig lives in northern California. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 143 pages
• Publisher: North Light Books (October 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1581801963
• ISBN-13: 978-1581801965
• Product Dimensions: 10.9 x 9.2 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.9 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (12 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #116,713 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #89 in Books > Arts & Photography > Painting > Watercolor

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

39 of 41 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Confidence Builder, January 19, 2003

By A Customer

This review is from: 60 Minutes to Better Painting: Sharpen Your Skills in Oil and Acrylic (Hardcover)

This book is different from the other "how to" painting books. It addresses the greatest artist block--fear. If your canvas is blank because of perfectionist's ideals and being overwhelmed by the "big picture," this book is for you. It takes you through several exercises of timed paintings intended to make you forget about getting it perfect and have fun with your painting. The idea is that with practice you will improve and enjoy painting again.

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Very Inspiring, June 8, 2005

By 

Painter "Samantha" (ca) - See all my reviews

This review is from: 60 Minutes to Better Painting: Sharpen Your Skills in Oil and Acrylic (Hardcover)

Craig Nelson is right: "studies" are essential to learn painting and evolve into a good painter. It helps to get to the essence of your subject. I do not know any good painter who did not spend years painting before becoming really good.
This book does not have the perfect title but is excellent in content. The 60 minutes are what it takes to be in tune with what you are painting and finding ways to improve your artwork.
Each lesson presents a different challenge, and also leads you to explore a full spectrum of techniques. Perfect book to get you started on the "right brush"...and get you really in awe of the whole process.

16 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Gets you started, November 2, 2003

By 

James W. Young III (Jacksonville, FL) - See all my reviews

This review is from: 60 Minutes to Better Painting: Sharpen Your Skills in Oil and Acrylic (Hardcover)

This book is essential for those who need help in getting started painting. Craig recommends items one needs to begin such as paint, palette, mediums, paint colors etc.
He recommends 'quick studies' which help to avoid the fear of failure and help you to begin a painting. Also, the quick studies help you to improve on your style and editing. I think as a beginner this has been an extremely useful book.