Have you always wanted to try your hand at watercolour but didn't know where to start? If so, this is the book for you. In his 50 years of teaching, Bill Whitsett has helped thousands of people of all ages blossom into accomplished painters using the simple methods described here. With a series of bite-sized lessons, let Bill show you how easy it is to paint with watercolour - and how beautiful the results can be. Learn how to paint convincing trees using a few simple brushstrokes, how to depict a sultry summer sky using a variegated wash, how to show the gleam of light falling onto the skin of a grape, and the correct proportions for lifelike figures. Through more absorbing, longer projects, you will be able to create your first full watercolour paintings. Bill's foolproof area-by-area technique makes landscapes a breeze, and simple step-by-step instructions will help you to capture the delicate beauty of a summer rose. No-nonsense advice and clear diagrams lead you through the subjects of colour theory, composition and how to design a painting, and there is a useful guide to the equipment you'll need. By the time you have worked through all the lessons in the book you will have acquired confidence and enthusiasm - and will just want to keep on painting!

Author Biography

American Bill Whitsett has been teaching art to those of all age levels for over 50 years. Literally thousands have attended his workshop, 'Watercolour for Absolute Beginners'. He teaches in Flatford Mill, Suffolk (Constable country) in the UK where he has been filmed for Channel 4. The techniques demonstrated in this book are the ones he has used and refined in his classrooms. This book brings the classroom experience and Bill's captivating individual instruction to life. Bill lives in Suffolk. Nancy Cadorette is not only a watercolourist but an accomplished technical writer. She lives in Ohio, USA.