Because I’m not a professionally trained painter (I took a few art classes in school, but that was many years ago), I’ve been trying to self-educate by studying professional painters and reading up on the fundamentals. That’s why I picked up a copy of Color Theory by Patti Mollica. It was recommended as a great introduction, and I have to agree. It’s a quick read – only 64 pages – but Mollica does a wonderful job of providing the core information without any fluff. She also offers a few exercises to help the reader get a better grasp of the concepts.
Color Theory is broken down into five sections: The History of Color, Color Basics, Pigments & Paints, Communicating with Color, and Color in Action. Each section contains a brief overview of the concepts Mollica finds important for beginning artists to focus on, as well as dozens of examples and some suggested exercises.
I found this book to be a fantastic resource. I think that her simple approach to dispensing the basics works well. I mean, there’s still a lot of information and terminology to absorb, but it’s presented in a fun way. With some of the other educational art books I’ve looked through, it almost feels as if the authors (mostly established painters) are talking down to the reader. Mollica presents this information in a conversational tone, which makes it so much easier for me to relate to.
One of the things I really enjoyed was the exercises. For example, when discussing color values, Mollica offers an exercise in painting a simple scene (she uses a old barn and a field) where she suggests a color palette and suggests the reader paint the scene in layers, showing how each bit of color – warm reds, cool blues, etc. – build the overall picture.
Another thing I like is that this isn’t a “read it and put it on a shelf” book. It’s more of a useful tool, a reference that can be used over and over again. I plan to keep it next to my easel and paints so I can continue to refer to it as I continue to learn and grow as a painter.
If you’re interested in painting – particularly with acrylics – I recommend this book as a great starting point.
RB
I plan on using the tools in this book to expand and round out my painting endeavors. Hope you’ll post more of your artwork soon. 😊
I’m so glad to hear that, my friend. I’ll share more of my paintings if you’ll share yours! 🙂
I can barely paint or draw. But I’ve had a strong interest in art for over 60 years. The first artist I got into a lot was Chagall, who used colors prodigiously.
Ah, you have good taste in painters! I like his work, as well.
Thanks for the comment, mate!
Great review and love the emphasis on it’s practical application, Richard.
Thank you for the kind words, Pat!