Trying New Things (Even When You’re Not So Great At Them)

I may be crafty, but I’m not at all artistic. I’ve always wanted to have the ability to sit there and doodle or paint…but those skills just aren’t there for me. Oh well, I refuse to let that stop me. I enjoy being a dabbler of all things arts and craftsy so I’ll keep trying and trying. Progress not perfection, right?

I picked up this amazing watercolor set a few months ago. It’s been a great way to relax. Now, let me be honest and tell you that I’m mostly using it to color printables and doodle squiggly lines and shapes. It’s been a blast, but learning some painting basics wouldn’t hurt. I decided to check out The Watercolor Course You’ve Always Wanted by Leslie Frontz.

The book reminds me of a college textbook, which makes sense seeing that Leslie Frontz teaches watercolor classes and workshops. She breaks down everything in a way that’s easy to understand. I feel like many art books tend to go on and on, even when they’re intended for beginners. Thankfully, this actually reads like a handbook. I read each section feeling like I had just the right amount of information to help me but not overwhelm me.

Every new piece of information had a picture to accompany it. As a visual learner, this is exactly what I needed. Throughout the book you’ll find “demonstrations”. Each demonstration explains the various stages that it takes to get to the finished painting. It’s such a unique way to see how a painting is created since there is a picture accompanying each step of the process.

There is so much information in this book as it truly covers a lot of ground. Choosing materials, understanding color, conveying texture…it’s all there! This book would be a great read for any creative type, even if painting isn’t your thing. The pictures are beautiful and Leslie Frontz has a true talent for teaching others how to embrace art through watercolor.

I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review. All opinions are entirely my own and not influenced in any way.