Eric Mantle presents the basics of classical theory in a clearand concise manner for all beginning drawing and paintingstudents. His book features diagrams that illustrate everyconcept. Students will see the complexities of color theory andunderstand how to create the illusion of volume and depthon a 2-dimensional surface. As an art student, ProfessorMantle recalls, I was frequently frustrated by instructionalbooks that gave lengthy verbal descriptions of visual conceptsand then showed small and/or unclear diagrams of thoseconcepts. As an art teacher, I found that my students wouldgain a clearer understanding of a visual concept if my verbalexplanation was combined with a diagram of that concept.
A Visual Guide to Classical Art Theory is great for both traditionaland non-traditional media. Each page, theory and diagram represents adifferent tool for the artist to use. Through their use, the artist will findan infinite number of solutions. Artists also may use the book to createa trompe-loeil effect in graffiti art or the illusionof volume and depth on the computer. A VisualGuide to Art Theory is presented in a unique,non-verbal format that clearly illustrates the effectof perspective on color, light and shade.
