Collage, colour and texture in painting

Leading artist Mike Bernard reveals every aspect of working with collage, paint and other mixed-media approaches, from the initial inspiration for a painting through to design, colour, surface qualities and finishing touches.

In particular the book includes detailed information and advice on useful collage techniques, and demonstrates how, by starting with paper collage and then working freely with paint and other materials, you can develop exciting and original results in interpreting whatever subject matter appeals to you. The book includes numerous illustrations, again covering every step of the working process, as well as a wide selection of subject matter - from urban scenes to winter landscapes - from around the world.

There are step-by-step demonstrations of some of the key techniques as well as location sketches, watercolour studies and striking finished paintings.

Mike Bernard's work includes exciting textures, strong colour and the effects of light, and he combines these qualities into original semi-abstract images of landscapes, seascapes, street scenes, still life and figure compositions.

His techniques, particularly paper collage, are important ones for all artists looking to expand their repertoire.