[.ca] The Big Book of Drawing and Painting the Figure (ISBN 0823038963)

Thorough Overview:
This book is more than just basic instruction, but it starts with the basics and progresses though the essentials to advanced figure drawing and painting concepts. It is not a step-by-step guide but a thorough presentation of these concepts and how they relate to the final artwork. I have read numerous other books and taken a number of life drawing and painting classes so I was especially impressed to learn several techniques/concepts which were new to me. In addition, several artists are featured which helps avoid techniques unique to a particular artist. I highly recommend the book for any artist seeking a comprehensive overview of figure drawing and painting.

Visually Perfect:
This is my favorite book on painting the figure. The book demonstrates that there are many approaches to the figure and each technique is demonstrated by a different artist. The book is very well illustrated with color photo's of the examples in process, the artist working on them and there models. Truth is I admire some of the artist in the book and enjoy the beautiful photo's of there work. For the student and the master of art the book offers many angles and approaches in every medium. The books introduction was written philosophically and historically offering an overview of changes in attitude and approaches artist have tackled the figure with. In the end it's a very sincere, informative, and visually dynamic book. A must have for any artist or teachers library.

Absolutely Excellent!:
Great examples of drawing and painting from the subject! Excellent photography! Highly recommended for anyone interest in figure drawing and / or painting.

Painting People:
This is a great overview for anybody who wants to paint the human figure. It covers the tradition of the nude, the basics of proportions and anatomy, a variety of media, clothed and nude, various types of poses and models. Just about everything. Step by step guides from pose to painting are frequent - we see inside an artist's studio, palette, thought processes and techniques. As a beginner in life drawing, I found this book my number one resource whenever I wanted to practice and follow up what I had learnt in class. Not an in-depth guide to a narrow subject, this book's breadth is its strong point. An ideal starting place, but without stopping too soon and leaving the user or reader wanting more. A perfect mix of overview and detail, in my opinion. Highly recommended.

Very Good Overview of this subject:
Strong Examples, inspiring, and well thought out. The book gives a nice historic summary. Overall, the book is much better than most "series" books. Good for beginners to figure drawing.