HTL Library
Collecting books may seem as ancient as the rotary phone. With Google a few convenient clicks away, instantaneous satisfaction can often be achieved with more than enough images and information at your fingertips. However, holding a book in your hand, and thumbing through the index to research a subject matter can provide magic that the computer screen lacks.
Books are companions that can be carried wherever you go. You might even discover a moving inscription on one! “To Opal, My wildflower! Love Alvin” - was found inside the cover of that red Fieldbook of Western Wild Flowers, 1955. Alvin and Opal are my grandparents.
GUIDELINES: In the following three sections, you’ll see books that have been particularly helpful and inspirational to me. You can certainly order most of them from the big “A” online, but I encourage you to shop the source (the artist’s website), libraries, and independent outlets when possible. For hard-to-find books, try AbeBooks online. They connect with trusted independent booksellers from around the world to offer used, rare, and collectible books. Please see the Reference details in each section below to directly link to artists’ Instagram pages for inspiration and book ordering details.
NOTE: None of these recommended books represent any type of paid promotion. I simply enjoyed them. And I suspect you will, too.
ILLUSTRATION Books
Interested in brushing up on the basics? The books in this section will aid in advancing your skills in contour lines, shadows, and mark making techniques. They review tonal values, the importance of a light source, and color blending. This is also where you can dabble in the science of botany.
REFERENCE: Click on the first four books in this section to be directed to this artist’s Instagram page. Then click the profile link to find available shopping options.
INSPIRATION Books
Whether you're in the center square on vacation or Main Street in your hometown, stop in a bookstore and take time to check out these books on flora, fauna, and a variety of fun subjects. Inspirational books provide access to images and information that stimulate ideas for your own artwork. Let’s face it, it’s almost impossible to get an up close and personal view of a Pharomachrus mocinno (bird) or Rumorha adiantiformis (fern). See…ya need the books!
REFERENCE: Click on the first seven books in this section to be directed to this artist’s Instagram page. Then click the profile link to find available shopping options.
INSTRUCTION Books
If you want to take a self-paced class on loose style florals, watercolor compositions, or botanical line drawing, this section is for you. Enjoy the unique styles of these teachers as they take you step-by-step through the process of painting a poppy, or learning the layers involved in a beautiful landscape. These instructional books provide careful directions, with coordinating pictures, to teach you techniques for drawing and painting flora, fauna, and all things found in nature.
REFERENCE: Click on every book in this section to be directed to the artist’s Instagram page. Then click the profile link to find available shopping options.
