Worthy advice for all who embrace a life in art
923276
The artist's life is fraught with challenges of self doubt, fear of not having anything original to say, hesitancy at placing finished art before the critical public, all forms of shaky self acceptance. The artist's life is also one of passion and commitment and enriching insights into the secrets of the universe not always accessible to others.

In this very creative book, Clara Lieu addresses all of these issues, whether they originate from the student, the professional, or the teacher. Her credentials are impressive: she is a visual artist and adjunct professor at the Rhode Island School of Design with a past history of teaching at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, at Wellesley College, the Art Institute of Boston at Lesley University, and serving as Director of the Jewett Art Gallery at Wellesley College. In other words, she has been a participant in each of the three categories she addresses. `When I was an art student, I looked forward to being a professional artist and could not imagine being a teacher. As a professional artist, I was eager to teach and missed being a student. Now a teacher, I no longer take formal classes but I've tried to internalize the kind of thinking and questioning that was demanded of me as a student. At every point in one's creative arc, there is always something to learn, something to create, and something to teach. The three intertwined roles of `student,' `professional', and `teacher' are critical to living a creative life.'

The book offers sixty tips for all artists in all fields of development, tips such as `ask for help', `learn by teaching', `learn to let go', `use comparisons to grow', `ideas will always prevail over technique', `never apologize for your work', `be knowledgeable of work beyond you own', `be consistent and reliable', `find or create a network of artists', `never ever stop making your art' - and so many more seemingly brief thoughts made cogent by the accompanying remarks and by the (what must be the art of Lieu) line drawings that become symbols for Lieu's warmly offered advice.

A book's end, Clara Lieu concludes: 'To live as an artist is to feel ongoing yearning, doubt, worry, and passion.  I worry every day about my work and whether I can live up to my own creative standards. I doubt my abilities and question whether I will ever achieve my goals.  However, as grueling as the creative process can be, I know that I savor every minute, regardless of how things are going.  I love moments when I'm so thoroughly engaged in creating that time disappears, I stop hearing music, and I don't want to sleep.  This is what I live for.' Clara Lieu is a positive force for all artists. Read and absorb. Grady Harp, August 13
1289482
This is the most inspiring art book I've purchased in a long time. Full of insights and observations and instruction, not to mention stunning high quality color images on every page. This book has introduced me to artists I hadn't heard of, namely Jacob Collins and especially Walter Murch whose atmospheric oil paintings of common and overlooked objects has encouraged me to paint the more common objects that fascinate me. I'm taking my time working through this delicious book - I also purchased Juliette Aristides equally inspiring book 'Classical Drawing Atelier'. This is a vital addition to the serious artist's desk - don't leave it on the shelf!
2502900
(This is Frank's wife writing.)
My daughter who is a struggling artists recommended this book to us.  It's short, but packed with good thoughts about making art and coping with one's fears about the process.  It's not only helpful for artists in dealing with their thoughts about why they make art, but also to their friends and relatives.  The explanation of the essence art vs. craft (a topic that has long interested me) is excellent.  The writing is clear and accessible.  There are examples of how real artists in various genres have dealt with the basic problems of making art.  The book works for both the professional artist as well as the amateur, regardless of medium.
1865455
If I could have learned the things that are explained in this book when I was young, it would have saved me an enormous amount of pain and trouble. Bridges in the Mind is a brilliant synthesis of a both/and way of living that seems to be utterly new in the field of creativity and the psychology of the artistic mind.

Unlike most self-help books, it does not tell the reader to become something he or she is not. Instead, it provides authoritative support for remaining true to the self while at the same time developing strategies to meet people who approach the world very differently.

What many (maybe most) artists experience is this: on one hand, the non-artist world says toughen up, act normal, stop staring into space like a fool. On the other hand, the artist world says: just worry about the art, because if you have to think about crude things like paying rent and buying groceries, you aren't really an artist. Dr. Roccaforte is that barely-to-be-dreamed of voice saying, "You can do both, it is a good thing to do both, and I will help you do it." The book is not full of vague and theoretical musings. It actually articulates, in a beautifully written style, ways of encountering the world that will help anyone with an artistic mindset navigate through the outside world more easily and more peacefully, without ever having to "get over" artistic leanings; in fact, the whole point is to protect the artist self.

The book would be helpful not just to people who consider themselves artists, but to anyone who approaches the world in a metaphorical, imaginative way and has trouble understanding or being understood by people who are more literal and concrete. There is also a special section for teachers, parents, employers and counselors who have such imaginative people in their lives and want to encourage or improve communication with them.

I would strongly recommend this book for all artistic people who do not quite feel at home in the world, and for anyone who wants to help them succeed.
3511691
Encouraging, thought-provoking, and all around revolutionary, Jeff Goins new book Real artist Dont Starve will make you want to step out and join the New Renaissance.

Goins tackles the daunting task of debunking the myth that artists must figuratively and literally starve for their work. He uses multiple examples of thriving artists across a range of disciplines. With each anecdote, he takes the reader from a place of self-limitation to a destination where possibilities are accessible and found within. The result is a strong argument against what our culture peddles as truth, and a call for embracing a positive mental attitude in the face adversity. He elevates the concept of collaboration between artists and patrons, the necessity of healthy competition, and the liberating perspective of honoring your creative gifts by charging what your worth. (45). For the modern artist, welcome to The New Renaissance.

The writing is straight-forward and accessible rounding out at 210 pages. The book itself is formatted with the engaged reader in mind, boasting an Introduction and Sources section that keeps the information organized. Goins is exemplary at preparing readers for his argument by first outlining each chapter and then gently intertwining his thesis throughout. Best of all, many of Goins most memorable quotes are printed in large letters and sprinkled throughout the narrative, making referencing important concepts a breeze.

Overall, I found this book to be a worthy addition to any readers library, particularly for those that struggle with getting their creative work noticed and appreciated. What resonated the most with me personally was the concept that creative gifts are just that: gifts! It is every persons duty to honor their unique talents and in doing so, make the world a better place. Creativity is necessary and valuable; artists must be bold and embrace their worth!

I would, and have already, recommend this book for anyone who wishes to thrive instead of starve.

Dont hesitate. Find the nearest copy and join the many others who refuse to accept obscurity.
1904971
Ryno Swart gives a clear and accessible understanding of art studies and the complex facets of painting with oils. For me as an artist more of the heart than of skill, this book gives me confidence to stretch into new forms of creativity, as well as new ways of 'seeing' with an artist's eye. Swart's many years of practical experience as an international artist make this a richly satisfing work and his years of art teaching make it relevant for my own learning. I'm excited about how I will be viewing art in the future, as a result of this book!
2051385
(Originally reviewed on the Arts & Healing Network at [...]

In this book, Sheri Gaynor shares wisdom gained from teaching workshops on the EnVision Process. This three-step process involves "EnVision Dreamtime" in which you use journaling and quiet reflective time to articulate your vision; "Creating the Art of Intention" in which you make an art piece that anchors your vision; and "Reflections" in which you respond to the artwork with writing and possible additions to the art over time.

The first part of the book sets the stage. Sheri shares the story of her own creative journey, instructions on the EnVision Process, a suggested materials list, and a whimsical exercise called "The Creative Awakenings Visa" in which you make a visual commitment to explore uncharted creative terrain. Then the book divides into a month-by-month format for 12 months - each month featuring a different artist who practiced Sheri's EnVision Process. Artists such as Deborah Koff Chapin, Claudine Hellmuth and others share their EnVision artwork, journal excerpts, and instructions on specific techniques they use in their own artwork such as "Layering with a Transparency" or "Painting by Touch." Also in this section, Sheri has re-printed blog entries about the unfolding process of working with these artists and creating the book. The last part of the book includes additional resources such as a deck of Transformation Cards to tear out and shuffle for additional guidance as your vision develops.

This book is a nice complement to the other two reviewed here in that it delves into the personal creative life of 12 artists and how they each work in a unique way with the visioning process. I was really struck how much the experiences of worry, fear, anxiety, or doubt plague most of the artists, and in the end, seem to be necessary demons to work through in order to get to the shear joy of creating. Also this book is in full color - not only are there many illustrations, but even the text-only pages are on colored, patterned backgrounds. The book offers several different creative techniques to create your vision art - not just the traditional cut-and-paste collage method most often employed in doing this kind of intentioning work. All in all, this is a book that will appeal to creative people who are looking not only to articulate their dreams in a visual form, but also looking for inspiration and insight about the creative path.
1829080
JOURNAL BLISS felt like home to me - so many elements resonated.  Color is my native language and readers are urged to include color as a member of their team as they proceed to unearth - and set free - their inner eccentric.  A purple magic cottage, glitter - I would not be without it - doodles, experimental lettering, all are aspects of the author's life and artistic journey which tell me we will be led with humor and patience into the world of visual journals.

I confess to a deep affection for the bohemian.  My artist mother surely belonged to that tribe, people who, by my definition, are very comfortable being eccentric-identified, open-hearted, comfortable being just off the path of the ordinary.  I find Violette's illustrations whimsical, accessible and free-spirited.  She offers an easy way into journaling that is full of encouragement and completely without intimidation.  Her style is identifiable, yet her teachings present it as her way of working, leaving readers their own options for coming to their process and their look.

With her soft-spoken directions and aspects of spiritual growth through art, Violette de-mystifies the creative journal experience, leaving room for students to grow at their own pace, having used her examples as a starting point.  She communicates her passion for the work as well as her enthusiasm for life, color and joy.  Her book gave me a strong sense of how part of her joy comes from seeing others embrace self-expression.  The techniques, prompts and examples allow anyone to step in without setting any limit on how far they can go.  I plan to follow her step-by-step, regardless of the fact that I have journaling experience, for I believe what she gives us in her lessons is an uncomplicated foundation upon which anyone can build.  When one has been on this planet for a lengthy time, it becomes clear that remaining open to all opportunities to grow can serve us well.  We never know who will turn out to be our greatest teacher.
4007114
"generative art" is a highly personal account of one artist's path to creative coding, a travel guide for a huge, and increasingly trendy, territory. And like any good travel guide, it is not intended to be a rigorous, exhaustive overview. So don't expect a tedious overview of all things generative, or an elaborate programming manual of its language of choice, Processing. Matt shares with us the basics needed to survive and points out the major landmarks.
Aspiring artists and experienced coders alike will find valuable insights and new paths. Matt's refreshing approach, the book serves as a behind-the-screens look at the author's open source "100 Abandoned Artworks" project, makes for easy reading, quite unusual for a digital design/programming handbook.

Ultimately all exploring will have to be done by the reader/artist/coder. But I'll gladly take Matt Pearson's Bryson-like wit and accessible explanations as my faithful companions on further journeys.
3157596
This book is not just about painting, although painting is probably the most visible and best example of the world James Faure Walker explores: a world where all too often traditional artists, confronted by new technologies, either embrace the new completely or shun it totally. Faure Walker admits he fell in love with computers, but he understands the criticism from the more reactionary camp and this book goes a long way to creating a much-needed dialogue between the two opinions.

I will not repeat what other reviewers have said (Meryl Evans' review on this page is a particularly good summary), but I will try to add a personal opinion. This is not about a journey "From Traditional to Digital Painting". This book is about finding a place between the two where the artist can be happy, and hopefully this book will also help carve them out a niche in which they can be accepted for doing what they love. It is also a call to artists everywhere to push the boundaries, to stop creating second-rate digital art and finally do something extraordinary with it.

As a student of animation I've read a great deal about computer graphics and their relation to art, but this book is the best I've found. Faure Walker comprehensively grapples with the question of why digital or analogue matters artistically, and his conclusions are important to both artists and digital developers. If you have ever tried to wrap your head around any kind of digital art, if you care about where painting is going, you owe it to yourself to read this book.
4412954
You don't have to be an artist or crafter to get something out of this book. Art Saves delivers bit-sized inspiration from 20 artists, including author Jenny Doh. You'll learn about what inspires them and drives them, how art helped them overcome personal struggles, what they do when the going gets tough and how they give back to the community. Many of these lessons are relevant to more than just artists and can easily be applied to life in general.

The messages are uplifting but I thought the individual artist features were too short and merely skimmed the surface. There isn't much detail and most of it reads like an introduction. But that format, of course, allows for more artists to be featured. The works of the contributing artists represent a wide variety of art forms, from mixed media to photography, from knitting to jewelry-making. No matter the medium, the overall message is that art can help you connect with yourself and with the community. I especially loved the "Pay It Forward" column for which each artist has chosen a quote to highlight: mostly universal inspirations for anyone in any walk of life.

The book also includes a little bit on art techniques, with some artists sharing tips and tutorials for projects: including a collage piece by Kelly Rae Roberts, photography tips from Susannah Conway, digital montage by Susan Tuttle and a calligraphic wall hanging by Lisa Engelbrect.
3835397
As an artist, I've read dozens and dozens of books and monographs about artists.  This book stands out from the vast majority.  You are 'there', transported to the artist's world as surely as if you'd lived down the street from him.  The discussion of individual works of art is scholarly - the great works I saw many years ago in churches and museums, I saw again, with greater insight  - and no-less-excitement.  Story-telling and art appreciation at their finest.
478324
When was the last time you stepped inside an art room? Were you in fifth grade, maybe sixth grade?

Matt Appling is passionate about art and with good reason: he is an art teacher. But he wants you to see some art in your life regardless of your profession, whether you stare at spreadsheets all day or whether your domain is tending a home.

Appling begins by laying out much of what he sees in his elementary art classroom: observations of how children begin as curious artists and how they are unashamed of creating art. He ties his observations of art to what he believes are bigger lessons about life and how these relate to life as a person of Christian faith.

His arguments, observations, or opinions build momentum to a crescendo that makes a pivotal point in chapter six. This central point is what the entire book has been progressing towards.

Up to this point, his arguments have been strong, his thoughts have been well-developed, and his words well-written.

His opinions will resound with not only art educators but also those who teach music and drama.

But after he makes his central point, it left me with a feeling of Thats it? What else is there?

The result was the feeling of riding a roller coaster of speed, loops, and maybe even being turned upside down, all to arrive at a high point, to find that there is no drop after reaching that high point.

FTC Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through the Moody Publishers Book Blogger Program in exchange for my honest review of this product.
1728723
As the sole proprietor of a "kitchen table" art business myself, I felt an immediate kinship with the author from the very first page. Here was someone who'd had the same doubts, fears, challenges, and passionate determination as me...except she was a little further ahead on her journey. Rather than allow the large pages full of text to daunt me, I determined to enjoy the ride at a leisurely pace, highlighter and pen in hand. My copy of this book got heavily marked up on the first read, because there is wisdom on practically every page. The author shares much about dealing with insecurities, overcoming challenges, thinking outside the box, and parlaying small successes into bigger and better ones. The information is generous and genuine...and though it's not delivered in the terse, bulleted style typical of how-to books, all it takes to get at the meat of this book is a willingness to pay attention and ponder.

There are lots of business how-to books out there, but the vast majority don't touch on the realities or needs of one-person start-ups run from the home. Ms. Page's book provides an honest view of that world and what can work for those with talent and drive should they venture into it. But more than that, this book provides an arm around the shoulder when you're fretting ("You CAN make a living from art!"), a kick in the rear when you falter ("You only go round once in life, so go for your dream!"), and a warm friendly voice in your ear when you have doubts ("If I can do it, so can you!").

Color pictures of Ms. Page's artwork would have been a welcome plus, but smart readers know that her web site is just a click away. There you can look at her gorgeous work to your heart's content. Far from just "falling in a bucket and coming out smelling like a rose," Ms. Page is a talented lady who has worked hard to develop a successful niche business in a very competitive industry. I applaud her for it and highly recommend this book to anyone who has the same aspirations.
3669912
A must read for any artist. Packed full of wisdom and advice from a man who has walked the road.
120694
There are all kinds of ways to be creative and all of us have our own specific passion. For some it is painting, others are into writing, but there are numerous other types of creative activities which this book explores. This interesting book (Living the creative life: Ideas and inspiration from working artists by Rice Freeman-Zachery) draws from the experience of more than 15 successful artists to explore the many aspects of artistic creativity.

The 144 page soft cover volume is full of practical advice and color illustrations that will delight those who are into creative arts.  After a brief introduction there is a short informational section on the 15 artists who contributed to this volume. This wonderful book is organized into 10 chapters.  What is creativity? Is answered in chapter one. Chapter two covers the creative childhood.  Opening your eyes to inspiration is explored in chapter three.  Chapter four deals with inviting the muse to dinner, even if you don't believe her. Ideas on journals, sketchbooks, and notebooks are covered in chapter five.  Chapter six gives suggestions on getting started. Chapter seven details work spaces and work habits when doing anything creative. Companionship, collaboration, commissions and critics are explained in chapter eight.  Chapter nine focuses on the finished work and its place in the world. The final chapter provides ideas on living an artful life.

This book will expand your horizons and give you numerous ideas on how to be more creative.  Even though my own creative skills are limited to writing poetry this book made me more aware of the many other forms of creative arts.  I loved this book.

Rating:  5 Stars.  Joseph J. Truncale (Haiku Moments: How to read, write and enjoy haiku).
3774567
If you've ever wondered why artists create - and why their vision and drive is unique, here's an eye opener. Gompentz, an experienced critic and art writer, examines the traits of successful artists - past and present.

The 10 chapters kept my attention and gave new understanding on diverse subjects like: understanding failure as experiment, enterprise and entrepreneurship, curiosity and invention, and more.

I found his views fascinating and educational. Is every artist an enterpreneur? A go-getter? Disciplined? No, obviously there's a lot of luck in being at the right place at the right time with your voice or paintbrush ...

but the broad ideas of success in the arts will be an inspiration and perhaps motivator for those seeking expressing (or a career) in the arts.

Worth reading and exploring.