In theory, I wanted to try sketching from real-life, but found it more interesting to learn about than to do. Scheinberger explains the good and bad of going out in cold and heat, among people who may like to be sketched, or not. ( )

This is by far the best book on watercolor sketch techniques that I have read in the last year. The word urban in the title is something of a misnomer, because the book is for more broad than sketching on site. The book is a broad discussion of watercolor as an art technique, and is more thoughtful and deep than any that I've read on the subject. At the same time, it is applicable engaging. I highly recommend this book to anyone considering or pursuing watercolor painting as part of their artistic and creative endeavor ( )

This is one of the few 'non-theology/spirituality' books I've reviewed here. I have done some non-religious business books and Susan Cain's Quiet but for the most part my reviews focus on the Spiritual life, God and how to live meaningfully in light of God's coming Kingdom. But I have reviewed books on spirituality and art and so I thought I would explore a book which is more focused on craft and practice rather than meaning and significance.

Felix Scheinberger's Urban Watercolor Sketching is written with both the artist and non-artist in mind. He explores the medium of water color (and mixed media, water color and pen drawings) for sketching. As someone who self-describes himself as artistically reclined, I really enjoyed this book and have used it as a practical manual to explore art. Sorry, I will not be sharing any of my 'sketches' online. They are not very good. I am still trying to get a handle on water color and against Scheinberger's advice, I paint too much, and destroy the artistic value of my sketches.

But as Sceinberger demonstrates through out this book, Water color can be used effectively to add a splash of color to pen ink drawings, enlivening them and lifting them out of the drab black-and-white-world. He includes discussions on watercolor techniques, the use of colors (and how particular water-colors work and how to use them), and tricks of the trade.

Scheinberger has written two other books on watercolors, illustrated numerous children's books and has had his work appear in several periodicals. He shares practical insights on artistic craft. I can't say I have used this book as well as I would have liked, but I appreciate Scheinberger's technical knowledge ad encouragement toward practice. I will keep this book accessible and refer back to it for it's practicality. I give it four stars.

Thank you to Random House for providing me a review copy of this book through the blogging for books program. ( )

I'm not sure that this is a book that can be "finished". Every time I pick it up I get new ideas. Not a "pretty" book, but full of visual ideas and text explanations. ( )

Outstanding Book on Perfecting the Use of Watercolors in Your Art

COLOR YOUR LIFE with this Informative book:
Bring new energy to your sketches of urban scenes with this fresh and simple approach to watercolor painting. Whether you’re an amateur artist, drawer, doodler, or sketcher, watercolor is a versatile sketching medium that’s perfect for people on the go—much like pen or pencil. Accomplished designer and illustrator Felix Scheinberger offers a solid foundation in color theory and countless lessons on all aspects of watercolor sketching

About the Author:
FELIX SCHEINBERGER is an illustrator, artist, and designer. He is the author and illustrator of two other books on watercolors and has illustrated more than fifty children’s books in the last decade. His work has appeared in magazines including Harvard Business Manager and Psychology Today. He lives in Berlin, Germany.

My review:

I’m an art lover from way back when. I love to draw, but I’m no expert, but this is an excellent book to help them obtain their dreams in art. This is a beautiful and colorful book with lots of sketches and instructions about how to draw and paint with color. The author, Felix Sheinberger, an illustrator, artist and designer discusses the fundamentals like wet-on-wet, glazes and washer; Materials and supplies to bring on your travels and little know tips and tricks, like painting when water isn’t handy and seeking out inspiration. There is a great deal of discussion on the use of colors. If you are into learning or refining or just interested in drawing or painting with watercolors, this is the book for you. It is valuable and informative and excellent book to keep on your artist bookshelf. This is a valuable guide that shows one how to bring paintings and drawings to life with colorful, bold, yet accessible painting methods.
Overall, I highly recommend this book without hesitation. Some of the topics covered in depth are: the ins and outs of watercolors, introducing color to sketches, first attempts with shadows and light, discussing the effects and use of colors, tools to use, painting outdoors, and tips and tricks used with watercolor. This is a fabulous book you will no doubt be referring to more than once. “Vibrant watercolor paintings grace each page, and light-hearted anecdotes (why do fish make great subjects to paint, you may be wondering...) make this a lively guide to the medium. With an open mind and sketchbook, you will be ready to capture the moments around you in luminous color with confidence, creativity, and ease—no matter what your skill level may be.”
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