Strokes of Genius 2: Light and Shadow (Splash) (Hardcover)

~ Rachel Rubin Wolf (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

Celebrate the beauty, diversity and expression of drawing with this second collection in the Strokes of Genius series - 140 examples of the finest drawing being done today. Fresh from the studios and sketchpads of 100 artists, these striking creations run the gamut from highly detailed, remarkably realistic images that were months in the making, to contour drawings, journal sketches and gestures captured in mere minutes. Selections feature original approaches to landscapes, portraits and other classic subjects, along with offbeat inspirations like vintage photos and washed-off watercolor paintings.

In these pages you’ll find:

• A vast range of mediums and combinations, including charcoal, pencil, pastel, ink and more
• An exciting mix of styles and techniques presented in subject-specific chapters: Portraits, Cityscapes, Animals, the Human Figure, Landscapes and Still Life
• Firsthand perspective on the processes behind the work, offering expert insights on capturing atmosphere, telling a story, finding the right pose, achieving vitality of line, and much more

With a special focus on the power of light and shadow, this work has an immediacy that is honest and engaging. Filled with strokes of poetry, precision and passion, this is a memorable collection of art as well as an inspiring survey of techniques that artists use to translate impressions to paper.

About the Author

Rachel Rubin Wolf has edited and authored over 30 North Light Books, including Strokes of Genius, Splash 8, Splash 9 and Splash 10. She's a former employee of F+W and continues to freelance with us.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 144 pages
• Publisher: North Light Books (October 8, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1600611583
• ISBN-13: 978-1600611582
• Product Dimensions: 12 x 9.4 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.9 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #57,206 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Drawing on today's talent, February 17, 2010

By	Paul Bujanda-Moore "Lito" (San Antonio, TX) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

The previous volume, "Strokes of Genius: The Best of Drawing" received both praise and criticism for providing a narrow focus of style, technique, and subject matter in the craft of drawing. The title would lead one to anticipate examples from the masters of drawing throughout the ages, not just a selection of contemporaries who answered a call for submissions. This second volume, "Strokes of Genius 2: Light and Shadow" is a tad more humble in title and far more bold in content. While it still leans towards examples of academic training and realistic renderings, there are fair representations of abstracts, gestures, studies, and various mediums.

This volume should not be confused with a "how to" technique or historical perspective. It's a solid exhibition of drawing examples as explored by today's talent, meant to serve more as inspiration and encouragement to casual enthusiasts and drawing hobbyists, than a serious critique for art students. These are all gifted professionals who deserve a bit of recognition and promotion in print. Were I to find these pieces on display in a local gallery, I would find myself moved, delighted and thoroughly satisfied.

Now knowing what to expect from this publisher and a follow up to the previous volume, I am delighted to include this in my bookshelf. (4 stars)