Excellent Book

I have been an amateur artist for most of my adult life and have read numerous art books. Visual Music and Poetry—The How is one of the best I have read. It is well written with a logical organization, appropriate detail, and excellent examples. It covers the most important topics for those interested in two-dimensional visual art, either to enhance their appreciation or to improve their abilities. It describes important techniques evident in fine art but goes beyond description to explain how those techniques work together to construct paintings that capture attention and elicit emotional involvement on the part of viewers. Irregardless of one’s preference for style or subject matter, the elements of fine art described in the book will enhance one’s appreciation for a wide range of art and, when practiced, will improve one’s own artistic achievements. I have read the book several times and have discovered new insights helpful for my own work with every iteration. I highly recommend it.