In 1976, I purchased "The Artist’s Handbook of Materials and Techniques" by Ralph Mayer, following a respected instructor's advice that it was the only book of its kind I would ever need. Too many years later I came to understand how naive I was. Now a growing number of books on materials and methods in painting share shelf space laden with art history, biography, theory, and aesthetics. Paint … [Read more...]
Magnolia
I have recently come across the painter Tad Spurgeon’s inspiring and extensive website. It is chock full of his oil paintings, elegant writing about the creative process, experiments with materials, and historic research. He connects making art to contemporary life with philosophical patience and humor. It’s been a genuine pleasure encountering his musings, knowledge, and artwork throughout the … [Read more...]