Flowers & Botanicals: Discover Your 'Inner Artist' as You Explore the Basic Theories and Techniques of Pencil Drawing

Many artists' favorite drawing location seems to be outdoors. And drawing in graphite pencil continues to be one of the most favored art forms. This new addition to our Drawing Made Easy series allows aspiring artists-who may have never before picked up a pencil-discover the secrets to this accessible, versatile medium. With easy-to-understand information on tools and materials, basic strokes, and shading techniques, this 64-page book covers everything beginning artists need to start creating their own impressive works of botanical art. From dissecting the anatomy of a flower to sharing techniques for creating a variety of floral textures-such as soft, velvety petals and spiky thorns and leaves-Flowers & Botanicals offers budding artists an in-depth look into the art of drawing beautiful flowers and floral scenes

Diane Cardaci was classically trained at the Art Students League of New York City, Parsons School of Design, and the School of Visual Arts. Her passion for both realism and nature led her to start her professional art career working as a Natural Science Illustrator in New York City, where she specialized in medical and natural science illustrations. Her work has been published by the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, as well as by major textbook companies such as Holt, Rinehart, and Winston. After studying portraiture with nationally acclaimed artists such as Nelson Shanks and John Sanden, commissioned portrait work soon became an important part of her artwork. She is a signature member of the American Society of Portrait Artists and has contributed writing for the organization's publications. Diane is also a member of the Colored Pencil Society of America, the Graphic Artists Guild, and the Illustrator's Partnership of America.