Book Review - Harley Brown’s Inspiration for Every Artist

After waiting for two weeks this book finally came in the mail. Greedily getting the package in my hands I eagerly opened the parcel. Pulling the book out I noticed the cover is exactly the same as I saw on the International Artist web site. I was hoping for something with a little more flare.

Finally getting the book clear of the packaging I cracked it open and my first thoughts were “Oh, it’s just numbered paragraphs of insight. “Hmm, disappointing”. To be honest I was hoping for more of the same style as his last book. This one, however, is 401 numbered paragraphs of insight and inspiration along with the occasional cliche. “Ok”, I thought. Lets read it before I make a final judgement on it.”

So far I am up to about point 120 along with breezing ahead a few pages to read over the development of his self portrait and skipping to the back to read over “50 things you must know before you conduct or take your next art workshop”. At this point I am still neutral. You can tell there is a lot of experience that went into this book. Let me finish reading it before I continue with the review.

– 2 Days Later –

I have made it through the entire book now. Somewhat exhausted. I found reading everything in point form took it’s toll on me over the last two days. Near the end I found the insight less informative and useful than the beginning 2/3rds of the book.

What I did find great were all the little anecdotes on each page below sample sketches or paintings. For me this provided a basis for his words instead of just having text on a page. When I do go back to this book I can see myself skimming through, just reading these side tidbits instead of the entire book.

If you are an artist looking for an insight into your craft I would suggest his first book “Harley Brown’s Eternal Truths For Every Artist“. That book is so chalked full of great and useful information. It is hard to come by these days though.

In the end, I have no regrets buying the book as it was under $30. If I had paid more, I would be upset. I think I will refer back to the book at a later date but for right now I will have to put it on my bookshelf instead of by my easel.