Art Starts in the Heart: Creative projects and inspirational ideas for learning to make expressive, mindful art

by Erin McManness

Overview

Learn to use simple line art to create your own inspired, meaningful illustrations! Art Starts in the Heart helps artists develop their drawing skills and personal style, while reflecting on the inspirational prompts that spur the imagination and invite creative reflection.

Following an introduction to basic tools and materials, including pencils, pens, inks, watercolor, and markers, artists will discover helpful tips and techniques for drawing, layout and composition, hand lettering, and working with color. Step-by-step projects help you create your own personalized artwork and illustrations, from floral and nature motifs to portraits, scenes, and favorite things. The final section of the book offers creative prompts to spark your imagination, illustrated frames for personal art expression, and a guide for creating a vision board to illustrate a manifestation of goals and dreams.

With relatable and captivating prompts to inspire you on your artistic journey, plus an abundance of drawing tips, techniques, and tutorials, Art Starts in the Heart is your ideal resource for learning to create expressive, purposeful artwork inspired by your goals, dreams, and the most important moments in your life.

Packed with engaging instruction, tips, and beautiful step-by-step artwork, the Art Starts series presents approachable and heartwarming guides to line drawing designed to both inspire and teach beginning artists how to create meaningful artwork using simple lines and mindful prompts.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781633228108
Publisher:	Foster, Walter Publishing, Incorporated
Publication date:	10/08/2019
Series:	Art Starts Series
Pages:	128
Sales rank:	1,202,373
Product dimensions:	8.70(w) x 11.50(h) x 0.50(d)

About the Author

Artist Erin McManness is a graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design, where she earned a master's degree in illustration. She has been living and working in the arts in the Atlanta area for 6 years and is currently running her own business, stationery, and illustration line, Paper Raven Co. McManness works on a variety of different projects in addition to her paper goods line, taking on books, murals, branding projects, home decor projects, and advocating for the development of the arts in Atlanta neighborhoods. Find more from Erin at www.shoppaperravenco.com and Instagram @paperraven.co.

Read an Excerpt

INTRODUCTION

I have been a freelance illustrator and designer since 2015, and I have learned a lot about what things bring me the most fulfillment in my art career. Many times, the things that spark joy are the most meaningful to me personally, and I am happy to say that Art Starts in the Heart explores this realm of art making.

First and foremost, drawing should be fun! There are so many things to be endlessly inspired by, and I think you will find that the more you draw, the more you'll be energized to create. In the words of the immortal Maya Angelou:

"You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have."

Art Starts in the Heart is for those who want to develop their drawing skills and style, while having fun, reflecting on meaningful moments and goals, and manifesting them through their art. Think of this as a personal art journal: not only does it contain a starter section to help you refine your drawing capabilities, it also contains prompts and projects that you can complete either inside the book or in your own sketchbook. These prompts are geared to be personal to you — this is your vision board for manifesting the magic of making art in your own way. Use any tools you feel comfortable with — pens, markers, pencils, paints, or a mix! Make a mess, try new things, and be free and honest in your art making.

THIS BOOK WILL HELP YOU:

• Refine your own set of drawing techniques and hand lettering

• Complete five art print projects for your portfolio or simply for enjoyment (equally as important!)

• Explore and clarify the goals, dreams, and moments in your life most important to you through creative prompts

• Expand your visual vocabulary by drawing new things and taking risks

• Enjoy the art-making process and have fun

Now, let's get started!

(Continues…)

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Excerpted from "Arts in the Heart"
by .
Copyright © 2019 Erin McManness, Paper Raven Co..
Excerpted by permission of The Quarto Group.
All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Excerpts are provided by Dial-A-Book Inc. solely for the personal use of visitors to this web site.

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Table of Contents

Introduction, 4,
How to Use This Book, 5,
Suggested Tools & Materials, 6,
Drawing Techniques, 10,
Lettering Techniques, 14,
Working in Color, 18,
Digital Techniques, 24,
Creating a Pleasing Design, 30,
Composition Tips & Tricks, 32,
Creating a Beautiful Layout, 34,
Framing Devices, 39,
Step-by-Step Art Prints, 47,
Hand-lettered Floral Quote, 48,
Embellished Portrait, 54,
Illustrated Map, 62,
Symmetrical Folk Art Print, 68,
Portrait of Your Pet or Favorite Animal, 76,
Inspiration for the Journey, 82,
Creative Prompts to Spark Your Imagination, 84,
Vision Board, 117,
About the Artist, 128,