Creative Watercolor and Mixed Media (Art for Modern Makers)

by Ana Victoria Calderon

[annieb123]

Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

Creative Watercolor and Mixed Media is a new tutorial and technique guide by Ana Victoria Caderón. Released 30th Nov 2020 by Quarto on their Quarry imprint, it's 144 pages and available in paperback and ebook formats.

This is an exuberant and colorful art tutorial with an emphasis on spontaneity and flexible results using gouache, metallic paints, masking fluids, alcohol inks, pigments and more. The artist has an encouraging and easy to understand style of teaching. I can imagine taking a workshop or class led by her would be rewarding and fun. The introduction gives a short background to mixed media techniques, tools, and supplies. I liked that the author didn't advertise for any particular brand of supplies and encourages readers to try a wide variety of products to find the best results for their own work.

The chapters are arranged logically - with several shorter tutorials building up techniques thematically: watercolor + other media, basic techniques, horizons (skyskapes), celestial compositions, gems/crystals, and earth & sacred geometry. The projects are very well photographed and include tools/materials in a bullet point list, and step by step instructions. The photos are clear and easy to follow.

The book also includes an index and resource lists.

Five stars. This would make a good addition to a home studio library, maker's group library, guild or public library or similar.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.