A glossary, pigment index, and bibliography complete what will ultimately become an indispensible tool for any artist. Gurney cuts though the confusing and contradictory dogma about color, testing it in the light of science and observation. Beginning with a survey of underappreciated masters who perfected the use of Color and Light, the book examines how light reveals form, the properties of color and pigments, and the wide variety of atmospheric effects.

A researched study on two of art’s most fundamental themes, Color and Light bridges the gap between abstract theory and practical knowledge. James Gurney, New York Times best selling author and artist of the Dinotopia series, follows Imaginative Realism with his second art instruction book, Color and Light: A Guide for the Realist Painter. Costantino, ASAI, SI, FSAI, JARA, cofounder, American Society of Architectural Illustrators More than an instruction book, this is the ultimate reference for fans of science fiction and fantasy illustration.’Gurney’s Imaginative Realism is a gold mine for artists who want to create images that sing with authority and delight the viewer with rich otherworldly visuals.’ Erik Tiemens, concept artist, Star Wars: Episodes II and III’ Imaginative Realism is an indispensable, flawless reference for vision makers in any discipline to create their own imaginative realms.’ Frank M. It concludes with details and valuable advice on careers in fantasy illustration, including video game and film concept art and toy design.

Beginning with a survey of imaginative paintings from the Renaissance to the golden Age of American illustration, the book then goes on to explain not just techniques like sketching and composition, but also the fundamentals of believable world building including archaeology, architecture, anatomy for creatures and aliens, and fantastic engineering. This groundbreaking work examines the practical methods for creating believable pictures of imaginary subjects, such as dinosaurs, ancient Romans, alien creatures, and distant worlds. Renowned for his uncanny ability to incorporate amazing detail and imagination into stunningly realistic fantasy settings, James Gurney teaches budding artists and fans of fantasy art step by step the techniques that won him worldwide critical acclaim. An award winning fantasy artist and the creator of Dinotopia, James Gurney instructs and inspires in Imaginative Realism: How to Paint What Doesn’t Exist.

Color & light by james gurney