Norman LongOils: Techniques and Tutorials for the Complete Beginner (Art Techniques)

I have purchased many, many books on painting and oil painting techniques but this is the best book I have come across so far, which explains the basics and fundamental principles of oil painting so clearly.The book starts off with the basics such as materials, equipment, drawing, light, shade and tone, colour theory, painting techniques, but compared to other oil painting books I have, the accompanying text explains the why and how in much greater detail and explains everything more clearly. The text is supported by lots of photographs and diagrams. When I first opened the book I thought, "Oh, here we go again..." but I actually learnt a lot from this introductory section, and have re-read it now several times.Following on from the introduction are illustrated exercises all with a specific focus. E.g. Tonal Values - a white cup on a white background, Composition, Still Life, Imitating the style of your favourite artist, Painting Outdoors, Boats at Sundown, Cityscape, Garden, Sky using glazes and velaturas to create texture, People, Self Portrait with a palette knife, Seated Figure with a limited palette and Shoppers in the Rain.I plan to work my way through these exercises as they are individual lessons in their own right, and I am sure I will be a better artist at the end of the process.

Interesting book on the author’s manner of working and good tips for beginners to work in that way

Perfect for the hobby painting starter

Completely agree with Pink Frog's review - this is a terrific introduction to oil painting. It's great to come across an artist with such a modern approach - the book was written last year and (shock of shocks!) actually mentions using your smartphone or tablet (in the context of helping to check tonal values of your subject).I'm returning to painting after stopping many years ago because work and family took over, as it does for many of us. I have already ordered some materials based on Norman Long's recommendations and cannot wait to get started again.If you read this book I have no doubt that you will get a similar urge. One thing that is great about the author is that he paints in an impressionistic rather than photo-realistic style - you really will feel that you are capable of achieving similar quality paintings. In fact, a couple of times I have thought, "I think I could improve on that a little..." - exactly what you need to inspire you to get started.Special mention should go to his portrait painting - he provides an excellent introduction to this and his self portrait walkthrough is really useful, particularly his corrections quite late in the process (the end result is superb by the way).I own several books on drawing and painting (acrylics and oils) and this, without doubt, is the most useful one to inspire you to get started. Recommended without hesitation.

Unfortunately it did not help me as it was not what I needed for painting my sculpted figures. However, it is an excellent book for those who paint pictures.

As a complete novice to painting with oils I needed a little guidance and this book has helped me.

Didn’t really tell me what I wanted to know, not the style of oil painting I was looking for too much paint in blocks of colours, I prefer a more detailed and finer finish.

Bought this a Christmas present for my Dad who is just starting out with oils, and he has barely put it down! Very informative, tells you everything you need to know, as well as being beautifully made and designed. Couldn't recommend more!