Japanese Brush Painting

Japanese brush painting is a relatively recent development and emerged out of the Buddhist schools of calligraphy (Shodo). The ancient art of Japanese brush painting, or sumi-e, is strikingly beautiful, simple and pure, yet strong and resonant. Closely related to Zen philosophy, the art of sumi-e is executed with black ink on white rice paper using bamboo brushes. Subjects in Japanese brush painting include landscapes, flowers, or animals, anything that suggests a closeness to the natural world.

Budding artists can master the toughest and most treasured technique of all: portraying the beauty, grace, and personality of the human body. This wonderful tutorial, and a variety of inspiring sketches on every page, provide the solid technical foundation needed to depict every type of figure—young or old, male or female, standing, sitting, or in motion—and with style. Detailed drawings, some with grids, help capture the correct proportions for head, torso, arms, and legs; add light and shadow for tonal depth; and create texture, volume, and expressive lines.

Needlework through History: An Encyclopedia (Handicrafts through World History)

Needlework serves functional purposes, such as providing warmth, but has also communicated individual and social identity, spiritual beliefs, and aesthetic ideals throughout time and geography. Needlework traditions are often associated with rituals and celebrations of life events. Often-overlooked by historians, practicing needlework and creating needlework objects provides insights to the history of everyday life. Needlework techniques traveled with merchants and explorers, creating a legacy of cross-cultural exchange.

Master Critical Reading for the SAT: What You Need for Test Success, 2nd Edition

The Master Critical Reading for the SAT book will help you get ready for the SAT. You'll get an overview of the critical reading portion of the exam, subject reviews of key critical reading topics, and test-taking tips and strategies. You'll also have the chance to practice your skills and diagnose your strengths and weaknesses by taking five critical reading practice tests.

Math puzzles and games

A collection of old and new problems, puzzles, games, and diversions based on probability, geometry, number patterns, magic squares, and the laws of physics.

Table of Contents:

 

1. Number Problems
2. Number Patterns
3. Magic and Party Tricks with Numbers