Fantasy Art Techniques

I've been entralled by Boris and Julie's book covers for many years. Fixated by their figures, fantasy creatures, and supernatural landscapes, I couldn't even imagine painting figures in such detail myself. I really like this book, but will also admit that it left me a bit disappointed at first, not by what it included - but by what it lacked. Its strengths are summed up in Boris's sage advice that "the beginning artist should draw only what he sees" and its thorough demonstration of using models, reference photos, and sketching. By itself, that's well worth the price of this book - especially coming from a fantasy artist! Several step-by-step demos and many finished paintings add considerably to this, but still left me (then a wannabe artist) wanting to know more. What a surprize to find their other book  Fantasy Workshop: A Practical Guide ! Taken as a pair, these two books by Boris and Julie reveal a considerable amount of advice and details about techniques, style, composition, inspiration, and more for painters of all levels. In fact, they inspired me to take the plunge and try my hand at realistic portrait and figure painting. By following their methods and demos, I've been been pleasantly surprized with the results. I've since acquired more experience, as well as a substantial library of books by other authors (read my other reviews), but I find myself returning to this and others by Boris and Julie, for reference, techniques, and inspiration.

Great book featuring a great painter.

This is a great addition to any library. Great from a personal and professional level. Also, it has great tid bits for artist who want to read and learn.

used to have this book back in the 80's.was glad i found it again.the artwork is fantastic.you get some pencil work in the beginning and then the full color oil paintings.love it.

prompt delivery and as advertised

As always, Boris Vallejo knocks IT outa the ball park. I love his work.

Very nice book. Arrived quickly.

its a great book with tips and such just showed up bent

This is by no way in good condition. Red pen marks over pages. Blank pages. Very disappointed in the seller. Just be honest and say it as it is.

Fantastic paintings which are accompanied by a detailed explanation as to how the author envisaged them and practically created them. Every painting is presented and analyzed from its start till its final and complete rendering. Methods, materials used and artist’s indentions are presented thoroughly. Book also has some ink works which are fantastic and in some instances are better than the oil counterparts.

Second hand but looks new, thank you..

I absolutely love Boris Vallejo's art, and as an artist, I would love to be able to do what he can. Which is of course why you buy a book like this.I was very disappointed when I received the book. It serves more as a look back through his back catalogue of work (some unpublished stuff as well). There are a few (very few) pieces of advice and tips on how to set up your reference photos and prepare a portfolio, but overall it is so general and vague that you will learn little more than "there is no one way to paint skin colour" or "it takes time to get good". Chances are you already knew that...This book was either compiled in a hurry by request of Boris Vallejo's financial advisor, or he is simply not interested in passing on the knowledge he has of his craft. Quite disappointing.

little guidance and lots of showing off his art.