Painting Masterclass

The tradition of painting is extraordinarily rich in imagination, invention, and skill and long after its advent, it still lies at the heart of art practice, inspiring generations of artists and enthusiasts alike.

This book examines 100 of the most fascinating of such paintings by the world’s greatest artists: the way they were made, what they do well, and how and what we can learn from them. With detailed analyses and instructive creative tips sections, you can learn how to convey movement like Degas, apply acrylic like Twombly, and command colour like Matisse.

The book explores the act of vision in each artwork, describing how the images were created and including practical tips and advice, allowing you to weave some of this magic into your own work. The paintings are organized into chapters which cover the important genres: nudes, figures, landscapes, still life, heads, fantasy, and abstraction. Selected masterpieces serve as perfect examples of a particular quality in painting; light and shade, rhythm, form, space, contour, and composition are all covered in detail. Perfect for students as well as professional painters, and with a broad historical and global reach, this book is an indispensable introduction to the rich history and practice of painting.