Library Journal
Drawing inspiration from nature, watercolor artist Collins (The Colour Mixing Companion) shows readers how a palette of just 23 colors can be mixed to depict a variety of botanical subjects. Collins begins with an introduction to watercolor paints, explaining why she recommends building up ones own selection of colors rather than purchasing pre-packaged sets. A concise, well-explained overview of color theory leads into a discussion of various watercolor techniques, including wet on wet and wet on dry, and the creation of different washes and textural effects. The books four sections cover flowers, leaves, seeds, and bulbs, and each provides a painting project with downloadable outlines and step-by-step instructions as well as a supply list. Most critically, Collins instructs readers which colors from her suggested palette should be mixed, and in what ratios, to create the shades necessary for each project.
VERDICT: The simple, delicate beauty of Collinss paintings should inspire rather than intimidate beginner artists. Detailed instructions, including techniques to use, brush sizes to choose, and colors to mix, make this an exemplary resource for new watercolor painters.
Artbookreview.net
Julie Collins long ago became the default go-to author for books on colour mixing, but its been a while since we had an addition to her oeuvre. Given how much has gone before, I thought it wise to check that this isnt a re-hash and Im pleased to be able to say that it isnt.
Why so happy? Because its so good. Where previous guides of this type (all of them) have gone for quantity, this very much goes for quality and relevance. It is a lot more that just a guide to all the colours you might possibly want for painting flowers, but rather a series of palettes for depicting specific examples chosen for colour variations so that you get the full range of what you might want. Youll also find leaves and seedheads as well as blooms themselves, both individually and in arrangements. Julie introduces themes, settings and techniques as well as considering lighting conditions, making this a rather nice primer and leg-stretcher in flower painting, as well as that all-important analysis of colour. Id class this as pretty much a must-have for any flower painter.
This has, if Julie is willing, all the hallmarks of a rather promising series, with titles devoted to a range of subjects. I do hope so.
