Elliott Virgil Traditional Oil Painting – Review
To review this book is a privilege. Virgil Elliot gives a thorough breakdown of the process of oil painting and it is designed for those aiming for art as a profession. This doesn’t limit its broad technical appeal. The masters of the past are discussed in terms of their method and includes the innovations of Rembrandt.The reason I like this book so much is for two reasons. Each method, such as Flemish, Venetian, Bistre is discussed relative to history and the authors experience with paint and painting, embedded with dialogue is exemplary. If there is a fault and I don’t think this is incredibly bad, the author just doesn’t tell you how to paint an apple, or a jug or flower, which if you’ve come this far in your quest for artistic quality – you probably don’t need to be told again.
The images are of good quality and it must have been an enormous effort to get to print. This book also includes demonstrations and is destined to become an essential resource for students and professional painters alike. Virgil Elliot’s years of practical reasoning are apparent in the quality of writing. I thoroughly recommend it. To add, for fans of the great William Bourguereau there is also a section and demonstration of his method – a GREAT credit to the author for this – I have never come across this generosity before.
Virgil Elliott has stripped away the layers and given it all to you here.
Cirrus
