The Art of Gouache

'If you want to learn about gouache, this should keep you satisfied for a very long time.' Artbookreview.net

If you love painting with watercolour and are ready to experiment with something different, then the versatile medium of gouache could be just the thing for you.

Gouache is water-based, quick-drying and, can be painted light over dark as well as dark over light. Ideal for the beginner, it can be used thinly in a watercolour style, or more thickly as with oils or acrylics.

This guide covers all the materials and tools required and has a comprehensive techniques section that includes overlaying colours, colour blending and troubleshooting.

Experienced author Jeremy Ford takes you through three simple, step-by-step projects, each showcasing a unique style of painting with gouache. Numerous finished paintings are included to demonstrate the range of subjects, styles and techniques that you can achieve, and encourage you to develop your own style of painting using this exciting medium.

Book Contents

Introduction 6
What is gouache? 8
Materials 12
Getting started 16
Colour and light 22
THE ART OF GOUACHE 32
Gouache techniques 34
Overcoming common problems 52
Project: Rosebay Willowherb 54
CREATIVE GOUACHE 66
POSTER STYLE 74
Introducing poster style 76
Project: Ullswater Lake 80
ILLUSTRATIVE STYLE 94
Introducing illustrative style 96
Project: Red Onion Still Life 102
Moving forwards 114
Composition 116
Painting portraits 126
Painting animals 132
Framing and mounting 140
Afterword 143
Index 144