The Art of Field Sketching Paperback – Import, 10 April 1995

I checked this book out of our local library and liked it so much that I had to get a copy for myself. It is one of those books that will stand the test of time. Written 30-40 years ago, before everyone started using computers and before ordering anything you wanted online, this book looks at sketching as practiced by nature journalists, amateurs and professionals. In addition to the wonderful examples thruout the book, its includes lots of information about establishing different types of sketchbook practices. I will continue to use this book as a reference and source of inspiration for years to come.

I was really disappointed with this book. The content is excellent, but it is basically a mimeographed copy of the original publication. All of the illustrations are in black and white, which makes the sections and comments on using color in your sketches completely useless. It tells you to look at this figure or that figure to see how an artist used color so effectively, but because everything is black and white you have no idea what the artists have done. Massively disappointing!

"The art of field sketching is the art of learning to observe and draw nature quickly without worrying about the result." - Clare Walker Leslie (from the preface of the book.)I bought this book years ago, and it has never ceased to inspire and instruct. Clare's easy, accessible language and great illustrations cover all aspects of drawing from nature: equipment & tools, techniques, clear examples, simple tips and high-resolution results.What's wonderful about this book is that the author makes sketching so accessible! There's no pretense about being "creative" or "an artist"...she gets that the process is more important than the product. Field sketching is about understanding the outdoors and observing things closely...not about creating beautiful drawings.If you have *ever* thought to yourself "I wish I could draw" or "I would sketch if I only had the time," or if you're a professional or practiced artist that wants a good reminder of the benefits of field sketching, this book is for you.This book will inspire you to get you out of the house, sketchbook & pencil in hand, to observe and capture the moments of nature, and in the process, you'll "learn about a world that often goes otherwise unnoticed." (from the preface.)

I checked out this title from a library when I was in my teens. It was the introduction to journaling for me. I took down the name, returned the book when it was due, and I was glad that I did: it took me this long to find a in-print copy of it...and soft cover to boot!

I own most of her books, and like the others, this one does not dissapoint! I am very into nature,and trying to get good at sketching, and this book is inspiring! Her drawings are so unique, in all of her books, it is just a visual treat to look at the artwork!!