Painting Mood & Atmosphere in Watercolour

Paint magazine

This isn't a new book (it first appeared in 2004), but it's always been one of the best and this revised edition contains much re-origination as well as new material that brings it bang up to date. I'm always conflicted about recommending expanded re-issues. Should I tell you it's definitely worth buying a book you perhaps already have, which it often is; or should I suggest that, if you're happy with what you've got, your next purchase should be something new? In the end, all I can do is tell you what I like and leave the decision to you.

Mood and atmosphere are those indefinable qualities that make a painting sing and give the viewer a sense of what it was like to be there when the scene was painted. "Each of us has our own perfect time of day, a favourite season or certain weather conditions that set our senses alight," says Barry. "When these elements prevail, that is the time to get painting."

That takes care of the creative aspects: it's about being enthused yourself so you can put your feelings into your work, But there are practical considerations as well. Colour, light and composition all play a part and Barry explains how to use these elements to achieve the results you want. His subjects include landscapes, buildings, skies and water and his techniques involve balancing the elements of composition, the use of perspective and contrasting colour and the careful placing of highlights.

This particular reissue makes for an exciting and inspirational read.

 

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Customer review

Painting Mood and Atmosphere in Watercolour by Barry Herniman
'Herr Flick' is back again, doing what he does best making watercolours sing with colour and light, no traditional pale paintings to be found here. Barry makes his watercolour paintings look more like acrylics with his strong tones and use of vivid colours.
Barry describes his favourite techniques, in particular, paint flicking. He also runs through the materials he uses and recommends, and gives an insight into how he works as an artist - via his use of a sketchbook through to the final painting. 

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Leisure Painter

Popular artist and tutor, Barry Herniman shows you how to use watercolour to create mood and atmosphere in your paintings. Information on materials, colour mixing and techniques is followed by step-by-step demonstrations that clearly explain how to use your medium to best advantage. The demonstrations include breaking waves, stormy skies, weathered timbers, frosty morning and harbour lights.

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The Artist

Character, ambience and style add up to striking and memorable paintings. Expert artist Barry Herniman shares his secrets so you can invest your watercolours with all three. 

This new expanded edition of the book brings Barry's stunning artwork to the fore with a sumptuous redesign, complete with new inspirational artworks and expanded information on colour mixing and watercolour techniques.

• 5 step-by-step projects
• Dozens of inspirational finished paintings
• All techniques clearly explained and demonstrated.