Rating: 
Summary: Nothing New
Review: This book was a big dissappointment for me. I was looking for something that was beyond the normal how to paint book, something that isn't in every one of the 100 plus other books on the same subject. This book is not advanced in any way, and it covers one kind of painting technique. The direct painting approach is covered, not glazing or other kinds of painting. Very little discussion of the use of mediums or other advanced techniques.
All in all, if you have any other how to paint book you have everything that this one offers. For glazing and other advanced techniques try How to Paint Like the Old Masters - available here on Amazon.com
AD2
Rating: 
Summary: Not for beginner's only...
Review: This informative and insightful book is not for beginner's only.I was delightfully surprised by the subtlety and complexity offered by author Allrich. His understanding of "the process" and his passion for painting infuse this book. Although the writing style is extremely accessible, I believe that the title "...for the Serious Beginner" does not reflect the depth and richness of his instruction. A painter at any level will be able to find some insight that will gently push him/her to a deeper level of understanding and working. This is a valuable little book that offers far more than the title implies. I have returned to it again and again, and have continued to learn from it...and I am far from being a beginner. Painting is a life long passion of mine.
Rating:
Summary: Not for beginner's only...
Review: This informative and insightful book is not for beginner's only.I was delightfully surprised by the subtlety and complexity offered by author Allrich. His understanding of "the process" and his passion for painting infuse this book. Although the writing style is extremely accessible, I believe that the title "...for the Serious Beginner" does not reflect the depth and richness of his instruction. A painter at any level will be able to find some insight that will gently push him/her to a deeper level of understanding and working. This is a valuable little book that offers far more than the title implies. I have returned to it again and again, and have continued to learn from it...and I am far from being a beginner. Painting is a life long passion of mine.
Rating:
Summary: Not for beginners only...
Review: This informative, well written book is not for beginners only, as perhaps the title implies. I was delightfully surprised by the sublety and depth offered by author Allrich. His understanding of and obvious passion for the process of painting infuses this book. Although the writing style is very accessible, I believe that the title"...for the Serious Beginner" does not truly reflect the richness and depth of his instruction. A painter at any level will be able to gain insight that will help push him/her to the next level of understanding. This is a valuable little book that offers far more than its title implies. I have returned to it again and again, and continue to learn. Painting has been a life long passion of mine, and this book has proved to be a valuable addition to my (growing) collection of painting books.
Rating:
Summary: Read the full title...get exactly what you pay for!
Review: This is a great little book! It is not a "How-to Guide" in the strictest, pedantic sense. It's an honest book by a serious artist intended for those new to oil painting, just as the title suggests. That's not to say, however, that it would not be useful to more advanced artists.Those features that the book lacks are among its greatest qualities-there are no "10 Commandments" that are usually found in books of this genre. Most artists approached to write a book of this nature feel obligated to forbid X and insist on Y (with some justification, perhaps) but this book is just a well-considered, sincere, very personal discussion of one person's approach to his art and all the craft that it entails. Allrich's strength as a writer comes from his balanced, encouraging, honest approach to his topic. Basically, in this book, he says what he does and why he does it. He is never condescending when he discusses the techniques that "many other artists" employ. It's more as if he is inviting his readers to see things his way, if they are so inclined, (and to pick up some of his tricks) or to go the way that the Muse takes them. I'd strongly recommend this book for art students, would-be writers, people interested in the art and craft of oil painting and, of course, to anyone who wishes to "become a good (or better) painter". I'll re-read this book dozens of times!
Rating:
Summary: FANTASTIC!
Review: This is a terrific book for the Serious beginner. When I bought it I was just figuring I would try painting for fun but the more I read of this book--let me just say WOW and its making me serious!! Steve Allrich does a great job of laying it out for you and I am just getting to the part where I start painting. I love this book!!! Its intelligent and beautiful! Definately a must have for a beginner!
Rating:
Summary: Clear text and beautiful color works of art.
Review: This little book is a gem for all who are interested in art and paintings,with clear and concise instruction showing color and paintings in gradual progression to the finished product. This artist/author/teacher has integrity in all aspects, and it shows.I've seen Steve Allrich's beautiful paintings in a gallery on Cape Cod and I can attest to his wondrous results.
Rating: 
Summary: Terrific treasure
Review: This well-written book is informative, intelligent, and practical. It is not a "how-to" book and a real beginner would need something more than this to get started with oils. Nevertheless, this book is a great introduction to the medium and is full of useful "tips" and creative insights. I find myself referring to it again and again.
Rating:
Summary: Well Structured
Review: Very clear and insightful!
Elena, Owner of KolinskyArtBrushes.com
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