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Every so often, a book comes along that isnt what it thinks it is. That, of course, isnt always a good thing, but when its more than its billed, it becomes a matter of excellence.
This proclaims itself to be a complete watercolour course for beginners which up to a point it is, although Im not sure that birds are a subject for those with no experience, so lets say that its an introduction to bird painting. The demonstrations are thorough and clear, the execution not over-complicated especially by backgrounds and the use of colour straightforward. There is no attempt to depict feathers in any detail, washes being used instead to create shape and form.
And thats where it gets rather good, because, for the more experienced artist, this is a fantastic exercise in painting simplified, impressionistic images of birds. Sometimes, you want to catch the character rather than the detail, which is something Tom does consummately well. All of the examples here are full of life and look ready to fly off the page something you cant always say about some of the more formal guides.
This is a much more complete guide than it thinks it is and should appeal to any artist who wants to paint birds.
The book includes a card of Daniel Smith paint samples, which are so small Im not sure whether theyd be enough for even one painting. No matter, if they help to keep the price down. Theres also the bonus of a QR code you can scan to get some online video demonstrations by Tom.
This is a superb complete guide to watercolour painting. Beautifully designed with clear and concise layouts on each page. Although aimed for the beginner, it perfectly suitable for both adults and children, and for intermediates too to hone their skills.
Toms understanding of colour, pigment and the behaviour of watercolour is utterly innate. He is brave with colour, and his loose and lively style lends an excitement and spontaneity. His use of sharp detail, dry brushwork and focus (for example around the beak and eyes), contrasts dramatically with the looser washes and splatter allowing his subjects to pop.
With this book you will be learning from the master!
There are 26 step-by-step exercises in Toms signature loose and vibrant style for which he is well known. Each exercise has been broken down into stages, with easy and manageable steps to follow.
Before the painting exercises, there are a few pages about materials, tips and watercolour techniques, brushwork, mixing paint and how to paint eyes. Each with clear pictorial demonstrations.
At the back of the book, you will find a Daniel Smith watercolour dot card. Tom is an ambassador for Daniel Smiths paints which have a naturally intense and vibrant quality, with a little pigment going a long way.. and they suit Toms work perfectly.
I cannot recommend this book highly enough..Congratulations Tom!
Tom gently guides you through using watercolours and painting birds in this utterly beautiful debut book. With gorgeous illustrations and using step-by-step photos as well as helpful tricks, tips, and techniques throughout, Simply Paint Birds is a fantastic introduction to painting perfect for beginners, and a wonderful way to delve into the techniques of an award-winning artist.
Leisure Painter, February 2025
Tom Shepherd's book offers all you'll need to begin painting in watercolour; it even includes a free Daniel Smith paint dot card. You will learn how to depict 26 dynamic and colourful birds, using clear step-by-step advice and just a handful of colours and brushes.
The style is fresh and contemporary, as the artist makes the most of the watercolour's loose and lively qualities.
Wildlife Artist
A fabulous book with comprehensive instructions and very easy to follow step-by step-guides to painting the dazzling array of birds. I thoroughly enjoyed completing the exercises as a watercolour novice and it has inspired me to delve further into watercolour.
Wildlife Conservation Artist
Simply Paint Birds is the perfect book for both beginner watercolorists and professionals wanting to learn new techniques. With a useful guide on different ways to use watercolours and an easy to follow step-by-step process using minimal colours, it is possible to paint an array of stunning birds from the comfort of your kitchen table.
