Recommended Reading
If I had to just include one item on this page it would be Imaginative Realism, by James Gurney. Hands down, the best book on illustration I have. I have learned more from this book than any other. Color and Light is another great book, I consider it a supplement to Imaginative Realism.
Charles Bargue's Drawing Course was developed at the request of the French Government in the 19th century to raise the level of art in France. It is comprised primarily of a series of drawings done by Bargue and Jean-Leon Gerome. The student is intended to make exact copies of them, training the hand and eye to accurate observation and idealized beauty. The course takes discipline and patience, but rewards the effort.
I love Norman Rockwell. The first book, Norman Rockwell: Illustrator is my second favorite book. At the end of the book Rockwell walks through his process. Norman Rockwell: Behind the Camera is an excellent book to show how photographic reference can be used by the artist and not control the artist. You get to see how Rockwell interpreted the information provided by the photo. My Adventures as an Illustrator is a wonderful account, in Rockwell's own words, of his life. You see much humor, but also sadness and hardship. He had doubts and personal struggles. I think it adds a layer of depth to his work knowing more about the man behind the paintings.
William Bouguereau: His Life and Works is actually part 1 of a two volume set. The printing and images in this book are excellent. It contains and excellent biography and discusses the working methods of this remarkable artist. John William Waterhouse is one of my favorite artists. I find his brushwork and storytelling feed my own creative energies. This excellent Phaidon Press book is full of inspiration. This Lawrence Alma-Tadema book below is very well priced and contains great information about the man and many wonderful reproductions.
Studio Gear
Rosemary and Co. brushes are the best out there. The Ivory and Master's Choice lines are wonderful. Both are durable and have excellent handling. The New Wave Art Palette is a new addition to my studio, specifically the Expressionist Confidant model. It is light, has plenty of room for paint and mixing. The more I use it, the more I love it.
I use my iPad to display reference and mount it on a tripod. The case listed here is perfect for that, with a standard tripod thread on the back.
Clean air is important in a studio and the Austin Healthmate Air Purifier is perfect. It uses charcoal to filter the air and does a great job. It has three speeds and can really move the air through my studio.
Charcoal, Pigment, and Surface
When it comes to drawing and painting supplies I try to use the highest quality supplies available. I am concerned with the longevity of my works. I want them to last a very long time. Titanium White Oil Paint will last longer than Zinc White. Lead white will last the longest buy is moderately toxic and extremely rare and expensive.
Starting off we have a base set of M Graham and Co Oil Paints with Mediums. High-quality, professional-level pigments. When out and about I use a small Kuretake watercolor pan set of 24 colors. I use Cretacolor woodless pencils, stylus, and charcoals, non-toxic, high-quality materials. My favorite archival quality drawing pad by Strathmore. You can not forget a bag that can carry everything for Plein-air work. I also use a Jullian Plein-air box stand. Last but not least I have included my favorite mechanical pencil.
