The Drawing Breakthrough Book
A Shortcut to Artistic Excellence
by John Hastings
Reviewed by Carly Robinson
Purchase details: The Drawing Breakthrough Book by John Hastings. Paperback, 103 pages, $15.95. Please support HomeschoolChristian.com by buying this book using our Amazon affiliate link.
John Hastings uses a new and different teaching method in his book, The Drawing Breakthrough Book, a Shortcut to Artistic Excellence! By using this completely self-taught, self-paced program, he promises that "whatever your drawing ability, this book will help you improve your artistic skills."
The book contains three sections: "Part One: Starting to Draw," "Part Two: Mastering the 'Building Block Lines'," and "Part Three: Expanding your drawing Skills." These parts are further broken down into chapters or lessons. The first part starts at the basics of art: identifying shapes and lines. Then it moves on to all about points of reference and about drawing a still life. This first chapter is the base chapter, and the author recommends that the student re-read and practice this chapter frequently throughout the course of the book.
In Part Two the student begins drawing the objects that are around him! In this chapter, the student learns all about lines: straight, circular, and elliptical. To illustrate each point in the lessons, the author uses familiar items such as glasses, milk cartons, and tissue boxes.
Part Three introduces the student to Drawing Composition. Throughout the chapter, the student learns how to set up a still life, and then successfully draws it. He studies line rhythm, dominant shapes, and more!
Recommendation: The Drawing Breakthrough Book is a comprehensive, informational book from which any art student can learn. Its easy-to-read style and helpful tips will make art painless for anyone! Many of the illustrations are the author's own art, while others are photographs. The author encourages the student to adapt the lessons and chapters to his own use, stressing that the method is not meant to be taken rigidly.
HomeschoolChristian.com resources related to this review:
HomeschoolChristian.com's Art Page with creative resources and links for art!
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