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Line and Wash in the
Urban Landscape

Capture the energy and architecture of the places you love using expressive line and wash. Learn to sketch in a loose, rhythmic style and use vibrant watercolours to create unique urban masterpieces.

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Whether you are a complete beginner looking to take the plunge into drawing outdoors, or a more experienced urban sketcher looking to loosen up your style and use watercolour paints in a whole new way, renowned urban landscape artist Neil Whitehead will help you to bring your favourite places to life on paper.

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Packed with inspirational paintings, plein air demonstrations, practical exercises to help you loosen up and let go, plus lots of handy tips, Line & Wash in the Urban Landscape is a comprehensive, visually inspiring guide to this popular artform.

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The book outlines:

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  • What you need to get started: all the necessary tools and equipment

  • Choosing a scene and working outdoors: how to choose a location and then select an area of interest

  • Capturing character: sketching fast, simplifying and working with freedom

  • Continuous line drawing and prioritising rhythm over perfection

  • Using watercolour for drama, depth and energy

  • Understanding composition and perspective

  • Working from reference pictures: for when you can’t get outside.

 

Urban sketching communities and groups are on the rise worldwide, so there's never been a better time to get outdoors and sketch!

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Available to buy across in bookstores online at:

 

Amazon

Penguin

Search Press

Book cover
sketching on location
“What we love about Neils approach is the way he combines line drawing with colour, bringing a freedom of expression and creativity and illustrating how to infuse drawings with energy and imagination."
"If youre an urban sketcher, Neil presents you with a powerful tool for your armoury that I hope youll exploit and love.."

Heart of the tribe gallery

“A collection of informative and beautiful photographs of Neils work accompanied by detailed guidelines demonstrating his practice.”
“Line & Wash in the Urban Landscape is a comprehensive, visually inspiring guide to this popular artform"

University of Portsmouth

"Neil shares tips on materials and techniques that will help build your confidence and skills.."
“a genuinely novel approach in a medium that readily simplifies an often complex subject.”
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