Product Description

A self help support book for the young person who wants to choose art as a subject or the youngster who thinks art is not for him. This book shows the steps one needs to be a creative artist early on. It includes how to get over the fear of failure, develop and artist statement, how to choose a subject to paint, develop an artist's mode of seeing, develop a composition, relaxation exercises for the young artist, art self critique and self promotion. The book also includes oil and pastel paintings by the author, his students, and grandfather. The book is also of value to art teachers and art therapists.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #2123646 in Books
• Published on: 2003-01-01
• Binding: Paperback
• 40 pages

About the Author
I did not begin my career till I was age 24. Untill then I could not draw but began to learn to paint after hearing in an art history class in university that anyone can learn to paint. I did, but it took me 20 more years. During this process I began to study what the differences are between people born with an artistic talent and those that learn it with time. I also began to develop a mode of teaching art that is different than the regular art classes I was use to where the teacher says here is a shoe on the table- now begin to draw it. Needless to say, many students drop out of these courses believing they can't succeed at art like the others in the class. The book is very graphic and based on my experience in helping children with learning problems. The book deals with thinking and Seeing Like an Artist and is intended in breaking down the creative process so that rather than being an overwhelming project, painting becomes an orderly means of self-expression. The book is both for the person who wants to choose art as a subject or who thinks art is not for him/her. The book shows the steps one needs to be a creative artist, develop an artistic eye, and think like an artist. It includes how to get over the first hurdles of painting and dealing with mistakes. Also , develop an artist statement, how to choose a subject to paint, what is a focal point. Use and recognition of color, development of creative ideas, chosing a subject to paint, developing an artist's mode of seeing, painting composition, relaxation and concetration exercises specific for increasing creative awareness, and how to critique your own painting.

Customer Reviews

Creative -painting my own review
One of the biggest surprises to me was that anyone can learn to paint and that creative painting is really easy to learn- and very natural. This is when artistic painting is taught as a series of simple techniques to improve the artistic "mode of seeing" first, then actual painting with a brush later. What has happened to many budding artists entering an art workshop for the first time is that they are not able to paint or draw well and are intimidated by other artists that the ability to paint seems to come to them more naturally. That is what happened to me, so I know. I developed " artist block" and thought I could never paint well. After many years of not giving up I realised that I had to learn it a different way. I needed a teacher to teach me in a different way. To be creative and think about art first, not try to hold brush in hand first. Now that I am an accomplished artist and have tought others I wanted to share my method with new artists who especially think that they can't paint and with those who have never tried and have not learned to fail at art yet. The format in this book is especially good for other artists wanting to give workshops and want to reach all budding artists. Being in Control: Natural Techniques for Increasing Your Potential and Creativity for Success in School Anyone Can Improve Their Handwriting (CD) Exotic and Meditative Sights and Sounds from Israel

Jason Alster Does It Again!
In this book, Mr. Alster uses language that is easy for children (the intended audience) to understand. The art in the book is stimulating! Not only does he give easy-to-follow advice, he gives pointers and tips throughout the book that readers may find quite helpful. Jason's no-nonsense approach is a breath of fresh air. I urge anyone interested in this book to also check out "Being in Control", also by Jason Alster. Together, these two books are sure to encourage any child to be creative!

Jump into Art and be Creative
Creative Painting is a book for reluctant young artists of all ages. Written by a multi-talented author who has a treasure box full of affirming tips and techniques, this little book will inspire you to dive head first into art. Go ahead, take a chance. "The most valuable coins and stamps are the ones double minted by mistake. So don not try to please everyone, just yourself first." This is one of the most empowering statements I've read.

You'll find tips, techniques and affirmations to encourage your child (or you!) to muzzle negative thinking and replace it with positive affirmations. You'll read how the author began exploring the world of art, and suggested stepping-stones to begin your own journey.

This is a nice, neat and colorful book to own. You'll find yourself referring to it often.