Currently in its third printing, Watercolor: Simple, Fast, and Focused is one of the most inspiring and informative books on the art of watercolor painting.

Emphasis is placed on “The Big Three”- Simplify, Think and Paint Quickly, and Focus. This book will provide you with a simple explanation of “The Big Three” which includes all the essential concepts for mastering the watercolor medium. Understanding and perfecting the use of these elements in your work is interwoven throughout this book. Chapters present specific information on equipment, design, value pattern, color, painting the figure and portrait, and painting outdoors. By working simply, quickly, and with focus, you can go beyond technique, increase your stature as an artist, and create creditable paintings.

Published by Watson-Guptill. Softcover. 112 pages. 150 color illustrations. $19.95.

VIDEO 

     SOUTHEAST LIGHTHOUSE

   BLOCK ISLAND, RHODE ISLAND

Described as “one of the most definitive instructional videos on the art of watercolor painting done to date.”

Mel Stabin’s simple manner of describing exactly what he is doing as he does it invites the viewer to experience the process of painting with him.

   This video is unique in that Mel goes beyond lecturing on just technique. Emphasis is placed on the essence of watercolor, concern for design, color and value relationships, and creating dynamic   shapes. The liquid quality of the washes and the deft handling of calligraphy is apparent and intimately portrayed through many close-ups. The color is rich as is Mel’s verbal and visual  description of the Southeast Lighthouse as the camera moves fluidly from palette to painting to the actual lighthouse flawlessly.

   The video is of the highest professional quality and was beautifully filmed with a two-camera set-up.

It is documentary in character and captures the feeling of Block Island.

VHS. 47 minutes.