Painting Ships, Shores and the Sea

Book excerpt: In a magnificent showcase of subjects and styles, the American Society of Marine Artists express their unique visions using watercolor, oil, pastel, acrylic and pen and ink, in 11 demonstrations and 15 mini-demos. Instructions for rendering a variety of nautical elements are featured, from painting dramatic cloud formations and colorful twilights, to depicting calm, wavy and rough water. The artists also reveal their secrets for painting ships, sailboats and other craft with attention to detail such as how to "settle" a boat into the water.This guide also illustrates the keys to capturing the textures of a variety of marine images, including translucent snails, weathered wooden boats, fine sand and sea shells. Additionally, these featured artists offer their valuable advice on gathering source material, painting on location, and choosing materials and tools.