Painting (Hands on Arts and Crafts)

Anthony G. Hodge was born 1 August 1948. He is an author and illustrator, whose work is regularly exhibited. He has taught art to adults and children for 30 years.

Grade 5 Up-- This slim volume takes a hands-on approach to the teaching of painting. Hodge addresses broad issues--tools and materials, mixing colors, composition, etc.--in abbreviated, two-page spreads. His text is enhanced by paintings (some more clearly illustrative than others) and extended by projects loosely introduced, such as "paint a simple landscape . . . ." Coverage is choppy and superficial, and the information is necessarily, although frustratingly, limited. In explaining brightness, tone, and hue, for example, the author compares qualities of color to qualities of music--interesting as analogy, but murky as instruction. Where space is at such a premium, words must be very carefully chosen and concepts thoughtfully developed; this book fails to do so. Hodge does encourage experimentation and sets attainable standards, but foundering novices need more in the way of direction and definition. To the extent that the artist is ultimately his own teacher, the book may be sufficient to its task; still, it is best used, if at all, as a supplement to formal lessons or a more substantial text. Henry Pluckrose's Paints (Watts, 1987) is less ambitious in scope, but makes more effective use of a similar format at a similar level. --Marcia Hupp, Mamaroneck Public Library, NY
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.