Fantastic Book for Beginners to Acrylic Painting

“The Weekend Artist” by Australian art shop assistant Gerard Smith

“The Weekend Artist” is a superbly written book for the absolute beginner to the painting scene. Written by Sydney art shop assistant Gerard Smith, it is a step by step practical guide into everything you ever wanted to know about learning to paint decorative art pieces for your home in an easy to understand, entertaining, humorous and unpretentious read. In fact, the book itself is a good read even if you don’t intend to ever pick up a brush!

The Weekend Artist

Includes looking into acrylic paints (just what are they, why are there so many different brands, which are the best), choosing colours (what are primary, secondary and complementary colours, what colours look best with other colours), tools of the trade (brushes, palette knives, easels etc what do I need to get started), cleaning up. This is an essential tool for anyone wanting to start their own art projects, but don’t have the time or the funds to get to classes.

As soon as I started reading this book, I couldn’t put it down. The 224 page book covers absolutely all facets of painting. Not only do I recommend it as I am now “the girl in the art shop”, but because it was such an entertaining read. Gerard covers all those questions you always wanted to know, but thought too basic to ask, like “what does the word hue mean on a tube of paint?” What is a medium and how are they used.

This book is fantastic for anyone wanting to delve into the world of painting decorative pieces for their home, but maybe not so interested in becoming the next Picasso (although it is a great start for aspiring Picasso’s – always great to be armed with as much knowledge as you can get before entering the academic art field). As the title indicates, it is possible with the Weekend Artist to start and finish an art project, all of your own, in a weekend.

Gerard has several home projects that can be easily achieved and will look great on the wall. He tells you which paints and materials you will need to get and then teaches you how to apply step by step with lots of photo illustrations. I have achieved several of his projects, very easily and without too much frustration and have even managed to put some up around the house.

The book retails for around AU$39.95 inc GST. (Purchasers outside of Australia will not have to pay GST on the price. Price excludes shipping.)
If you would like to order a copy, email us at info@bella-arts.com.au

Creative inspiration, techniques and simple projects designed to unleash your inner artist.