In this useful book, beginning- and intermediate-level Illustrator users can learn how to create eye-catching images in a few relatively simple steps. The full-color illustrations and step-by-step instructions make this an especially attractive book for aspiring artists who still have a lot to learn about Illustrator and about creating good-looking graphics.
The first part of the book focuses on composition; you create an illustration using simple shapes; work with overlapping objects; create gradients, blends, and meshes; and use masks to create special effects. Part 2 has you convert sketches into line art and integrate photos with vector art. Part 3 is all about type: designing type along paths, creating shapes with type, outlining type effects, creating shadows with type, and tweaking type for custom results. In Part 4, you use filters to create custom shapes, form knockouts (using tools formerly classed as filters), give objects translucency, and create a cross-hatching effect. Part 5 focuses on creating a coherent business identity via custom logos, stationery, posters, and packaging. --Kathleen Caster
From Library Journal
Illustrator 8 is the latest version of Adobe's excellent vector program for image manipulation and creation. Vectors are lines of art in which Photoshop is a matrix of colors in rows and columns. Vectors are much easier to manipulate than a matrix of colors; they allow you to select areas of color easily for color change or line-size change. All these books are solid titles for folks trying to upgrade to Illustrator 8 or learn Illustrator for the first time. Alspach's and Weinmann's books are fine for starting out; Pirouz's and Steuer's works are for advanced users.
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
See all Editorial Reviews
