Andrea Press

Frequently Asked Questions about Figure Painting Techniques

Reviewed By  Dave Morrissette, IPMS# 33653

MSRP: $49.95 Distributed by Andrea Press (www.andrea-miniatures.com) . Andrea Press continues its work to give background and teach methodology on figure painting to everyone interested. Their latest volume, "F.A.Q. Frequently Asked Questions about Figure Painting Techniques" is a how to guide where readers will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions when undertaking such a task, whether they come from novices painting a figure for the first time or confirmed artists. The art of painting miniatures requires certain knowledge and techniques ranging from the very basic to complex to obtain satisfactory results. From the basic preparation of the figure to the final presentation with finishing touches, this book covers the needed techniques. The book is structured into seven sections. First is a clearly structured index permits the use of the book without wasting time and finding each answer with ease. The second and third parts provide a history of miniatures and also the key to the FAQ and the icons used in the pictures. The fourth part is the materials and technique section and covers how to do almost anything. The fifth section is how to store and preserve your finished masterpieces. The sixth section is an excellent guide to contests, judging and hints how to do your best. Last is a gallery of finished models to show what can be accomplished with the techniques in this book. The main techniques of doing skin, eyes, etc. are covered including all of the different types of paints such as oils, enamels, water colors and acrylics. Methods also include using varnishes, matte mediums and airbrushing. There are sections on preparing your kit and color theory. The list is very comprehensive and takes you from start to finish on everything from painting tartan plaids to eyes to weapons. All the techniques are fully photographed and displayed in color. Also included in section four are also techniques and advice for making the finished pieces more attractive, through the choice of the appropriate base, decoration, conversion and the creation of small terrains in which to set the figure. This also includes rust effects, dry transfers and many other small details to enhance the figure. Advice for participating in competitions is also provided, as well as the most appropriate ways for conserving figures and avoiding their deterioration with the passage of time and elements as damaging as dust. The final section is dedicated to the works of several world renowned artists with some of their best works from recent years. This is definitely a comprehensive manual that will be of great help for miniature figure painting enthusiasts. It is appropriate and recommended for all ranges of abilities from novice to master and is a well thought out reference. My thanks to Andrea Press, Tara Lichterman of Casemate Publishing and John Noack of IPMS/USA for the chance to review this excellent publication.

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