Drawing for All It's Worth

How to Learn and Why

Poetry - General
192 Pages
Reviewed on 09/18/2012
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Karen Pirnot for Readers' Favorite

In "Drawing for All It's Worth", Charles Staats, Jr. has given a useful and scholarly example of how the elements of drawing are critical to the learning of the art of drawing itself. Being an artist and professor of the arts, the author brings in a unique perspective on the evolution and development of the artist. He first provides a set of exercises to help the budding artist actually practice drawing. Then, he explains how mental preparedness is critical to the motivation and ability to create art. Personal attributes such as being self-determined and filled with hope can overcome natural tendencies toward anxieties, fears and depression. The author cautions the reader to "be true to oneself" rather than to attempt to copy an already accepted artist. Finally, the author explains that artistic work is nearly always related to the relevant science of the times.

Although there is no practical drawing knowledge in the final section, I found it a fascinating study on how the language of vision actually works for the artist. The development of language is reviewed along with information about brain development. In order for the artist to develop, a change in the brain schemata must occur and allow for creative processes. For the budding and advanced art student, this will be a most welcome addition to the library. It is a well-written book which should be read at several points of artistic development so that the wealth of information can be absorbed and used for optimum artistic growth.