Crayon Portraiture by Jerome A. Barhydt is a comprehensive guide that offers clear and detailed instructions on making beautiful crayon portraits. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, this book provides all the necessary information and techniques to create stunning artwork using crayons.
Barhydt starts with a brief introduction to the medium itself, explaining its history and characteristics. He then delves into various materials required for crayon portraiture, including different types of crayons, papers, and enlargements. This comprehensive approach ensures that readers have a complete understanding of the tools at their disposal.
The book is divided into easily navigable chapters, each focusing on different aspects of the process. Barhydt explains the step-by-step procedure for creating a crayon portrait on crayon paper, presenting detailed illustrations and descriptions of each stage. Additionally, he provides valuable tips and insights into color selection, shading techniques, and capturing facial features accurately.
One of the standout features of this book is its coverage of creating crayon portraits on platinum, silver, and bromide enlargements. Barhydt guides readers through the process with precision, highlighting the specific considerations and adjustments required for each surface. This added dimension makes the book more versatile and valuable for artists interested in exploring alternative methods and mediums.
Another commendable aspect of Crayon Portraiture is the author's writing style. Barhydt's instructions are clear, concise, and easy to follow. Even the most complex techniques are broken down into manageable steps, allowing artists of all experience levels to grasp and practice them effectively. This user-friendly approach is further enhanced by the inclusion of numerous illustrative examples that showcase different types of crayon portraits, providing inspiration and visual references to readers.
While the book excels in terms of technique and instructions, it could benefit from more visual aids and color illustrations. Though the textual descriptions are informative, the addition of more photographs or color plates would greatly enhance the reader's comprehension and provide a better understanding of the author's intended artistic results.
In summary, Crayon Portraiture by Jerome A. Barhydt is an indispensable guide for anyone interested in creating crayon portraits. With its comprehensive approach, clear instructions, and valuable insights, this book equips artists with the knowledge and skills necessary to embark on their own crayon portraiture journey. Whether you are a beginner or advanced artist, this book is a valuable addition to any art library, offering guidance and inspiration for mastering this unique and expressive medium.
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