James Gurney: Life is an Adventure

In 'Secrets of the Gnomes', authors Wil Huygen and Rien Poortvliet take readers on a journey through the enchanting realm of gnomes. The book is filled with detailed illustrations and stories that explore gnome culture, technology, and their deep connection with nature. It offers a delightful escape into a world of wonder and imagination, perfect for those who love fantasy and folklore.

This book, illustrated by Brian Froud and Alan Lee, presents a comprehensive and visually stunning exploration of the world of faeries. It includes 185 drawings and paintings, with 147 in full color, depicting water fairies, tree fairies, nymphs, pixies, elves, leprechauns, dryads, and more. The authors provide written comments on the origins and meaning of the various faerie types, making it a seminal work in the field of fantasy art and mythology.

Imaginative Realism: How to Paint What Doesn't Exist is a comprehensive guide by James Gurney that teaches artists how to create believable pictures of imaginary subjects. The book covers techniques such as sketching, composition, and world-building, providing insights into careers in fantasy illustration, including video game and film concept art. It also explores the history of imaginative painting from the Renaissance to the Golden Age of American illustration.

Initially published in 1982, "The Artist's Guide to Sketching" is a collaboration between James Gurney and Thomas Kinkade. It focuses on on-the-spot drawing techniques, reflecting their experiences during a cross-country journey. The book emphasizes the importance of direct observation and capturing life's essence through sketching. It serves as a guide for aspiring artists, encouraging them to embrace outdoor sketching and experiential learning. The book's recent reissue highlights its enduring relevance to contemporary artists.

James Gurney's "Painting Color and Light" is a practical guide to mastering the fundamentals of color and light in painting. The book provides a clear and accessible approach to understanding how light interacts with objects and how to translate that understanding onto the canvas. Gurney emphasizes the importance of value, color temperature, and atmospheric perspective in creating realistic and evocative paintings. The book is richly illustrated with examples of his own work, demonstrating his techniques and offering valuable insights. It serves as an excellent resource for artists of all levels seeking to improve their understanding and application of color and light.

The story follows Jim Hawkins, a young boy who lives at the Admiral Benbow Inn with his mother. After the death of a mysterious sea captain, Billy Bones, Jim finds a map that leads to the treasure of Captain Flint. Along with Dr. Livesey and Squire Trelawney, Jim sets sail on the Hispaniola to find the treasure, unaware that many of the crew members are former pirates of Captain Flint's ship, led by the cunning Long John Silver. The novel unfolds as a tale of adventure, mutiny, and the struggle between good and evil, with Jim facing numerous challenges and learning valuable lessons about courage and loyalty.