One of my favourite books on color is this one. It's called, Local Color - Seeing Place Through Watercolour by Mimi Robinson.
It is unique in that she has taken colour swatches from landscapes worldwide and created a book using the photos and the colour swatches. This gives you a special insight into colour temperature and value in different places around the world.
It is a delightful and insightful guide for artists, travelers, and anyone interested in capturing the essence of a place through painting, regardless of the medium, you use. Robinson, a talented designer and educator, takes readers on a journey to develop their observational skills and learn to see the world through a painter's lens.
The book's central theme revolves around the concept of "local color," which refers to the specific hues and tones that define a particular location. Robinson emphasizes the importance of observing and recording these colors to create a sense of authenticity and atmosphere in one's artwork. Through her engaging writing style and numerous examples, she teaches readers how to train their eyes to notice the subtle variations in color and light that make each place unique.
One of the book's strengths lies in its practical exercises and step-by-step demonstrations. Robinson provides clear instructions and illustrations to help readers develop their watercolor techniques, from mixing colors to creating washes and textures. She also offers valuable tips on choosing the right materials and working with different types of watercolor paper.
For the more experienced visual artist, regardless of your medium, this book provides a treasure trove of ideas for colour palettes that you might want to base your paintings on. There are so many different palettes that she has provided, with colours that complement each other, that you are spoiled for choice.
What sets "Local Color" apart is its accessibility and inspirational quality. Robinson's approach is inclusive, catering to both experienced artists and beginners alike. Her enthusiasm for watercolor and her love for capturing the essence of a place is contagious, as she encourages you to embark on your own creative journey and explore the world through your sketchbook and paintbrushes.
"Local Color: Seeing Place Through Watercolor" is a must-read for anyone interested in not only watercolor painting, but also travel journaling, or simply appreciating the beauty of the world around them.
Resources:
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l8zdXeBPRjI
[2] https://www.amazon.com.au/Local-Color-Seeing-Through-Watercolor-ebook/dp/B00WAUXVTA
[3] https://www.amazon.com.au/Local-Color-Mimi-Robinson/dp/1616892978
[4] https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22728702-local-color
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