Artbookreview.net

I dont normally review books that have no words because there really isnt much you can say about a series of steps that have no explanation other than that theyd better be self-explanatory. However, this is a new series from Search Press that may be set to replace their long-running and popular in simple steps.

The first thing to say is that this is even simpler, with four outlines based on circles and ellipses, a suddenly complete pencil outline and then the added colour. With no instructions, you are left to work out how to handle (in the subjects here) hair and fur for yourself and Ive always wondered how well people get on with that. However, the previous series covered just about every subject under the sun, so Im assuming it sold and that buyers did therefore manage the leap successfully. As before, I also find myself often preferring the uncoloured version but hey, youre the one paying your money so youre the one who gets to choose.

As a basic drawing series, this has promise, so lets crack the champagne and wish it bon voyage.

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Leisure Painter

In no more than six simple stages, Susie Hodge shows you how to draw and colour 30 dogs and puppies. Create your own kennel of canine companions from an endearing chocolate Labrador puppy to a rascal of a Jack Russell terrier; a pocket-size chihuahua to a mammoth Great Dane! Each adorable dog is developed in no more than six easy stages, from a rough sketch of the basic shapes through to the finished, coloured portrait in watercolour or coloured pencil. Within the book's easy-to-follow landscape format the dogs leap to life across the pages, making them ideal for budding artists of all pedigrees: from kids looking for afterschool art projects to adults wanting to create lifelike pet portraits. 

The book contains material previously published in How to Draw Dogs (2010), plus five dashing dogs drawn specially for this new volume.