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In his book, For Artists and Art Lovers: A Handbook, artist and author Robert Henry (or Bob Henry) translates decades of experience with a paintbrush into a guide for both artists and art lovers.
The book is a collection of his personal thoughts on the philosophy of art and the creative process. From brush to text, Bob Henry writes from the unique and deliberate perspective of someone who has spent over 70 years expressing himself through art.
This remarkable perspective is what makes his insights so valuable and relatable to anyone who’s ever found themselves on a creative journey, regardless of their medium.
For Artists and Art Lovers: A Handbook teaches the importance of “visual thinking,” which is a simple way of saying that we should use our eyes to think and see the world in new and different ways. Life is a kaleidoscope, and we should all see it for what it is. He believes that the most powerful art originates from an artist’s own feelings and ideas, and that this personal touch is what truly connects and resonates with others.
His book is a great way to understand how a painter thinks, as he explains big ideas from modern artists like Hans Hofmann in a simple, down-to-earth way that is easy to grasp, even for beginners.
FROM BRUSH TO TEXT
The journey from brush to text is about sharing what to do, but also about sharing the mindset behind the creation, offering a genuine form of artistic commentary that goes beyond surface-level critique.
For Artists and Art Lovers is like a toolbox for anyone who loves art, whether they’re a professional artist or a beginner. It gives tips on common challenges, like how to arrange things in a painting and how to find your own style. The writing is clear and easy to understand, which makes it a book you’ll want to read again and again. Henry’s friendly advice helps both new artists and art fans appreciate the history of painting and feel confident enough to find their own creative paths.
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The Artist’s Voice: Why It Matters
There is much ado about sharing one’s experiences. As such, when artists like Bob Henry write about their work, it’s enlightening because we are given a secret pass, a glimpse into their minds and how their personal creative processes pan out.
Sitting down inside an art class can give you an idea of what art means, but an artist’s own words will give you a direct look at their thoughts, struggles, and conceptions.
A firsthand account from an artist is always important because it captures the messy, imperfect reality of the creative process. The final product hanging on a wall, printed over a book cover, embedded on a bag or whatever is what we see, but in the run-up to its completion, there were thousands upon thousands of small decisions, deliberate and unconscious; there were countless moments of hesitation and frustration, and innumerable sparks of inspiration that all added up to its completion.
This insider’s view into how the sausage gets made helps demystify the artistic process, giving non-creatives (or those people who call and identify themselves as such) some push to dive into their artistic impulses. Making art isn’t a magical gift that’s exclusive to a select few. Of course, it’s true that some may have some measure of innate capabilities when it comes to art that gives them a leg up, but it’s still a journey that everyone is entitled to. Art is all about making your dreams a reality and discovering who you really are.
Throughout the book, aside from guiding his readers, Bob Henry shares some of his personal musings on art and the creative process, inviting you to think with him and ask the same questions about form, intention, and meaning.
WORDS FROM AN ARTIST
The process of translating his work from brush to text is a strong validation of the struggles of emerging artists and gives seasoned creators a new language to articulate their own experiences. This kind of writing on art is vital for understanding the deeper intent behind creative works, as it provides a guide for interpreting paintings through words and a way of narrating visual art that is authentic and personal.
The book moves the conversation about art from the museum into the studio, making it a living, breathing part of the human experience.
“Always Try the ‘Wrong’ Color”
Bob Henry sometimes starts a piece with a color he considers “wrong” to the idea that’s simmering in his head. It helps stir his mind and often offers surprising and startling results.
This activity challenges the notion of strict rules and encourages him to experiment further and walk over predetermined lines of thinking.
Therefore, even in life, don’t be afraid to break from tradition and explore unexpected choices. Sometimes the most interesting outcomes come from the most surprising decisions.
“Art for Your Life”
Bob Henry explains that art should always be a reflection of your own life and feelings. The more personal and honest your work is, the more powerful it will be when it is completed. Art is communication, and the best way to communicate is through your genuine self.
Whatever you create, whether it’s a painting or a story, let it show who you are and what you care about.
“Create Feeling, Not Just Facts”
Art isn’t just limited to what you see with your mind’s eye. It’s also a manifestation of what you feel deep inside. Bob Henry insists that the best art helps you remember feelings and experiences. As an artist, you are not just making a picture; you are creating a feeling. Focus on evoking emotion and connection, not just on making something look exactly right.
“Don’t Worry About Being Perfect”
The philosophy of Bob Henry encourages you to create for yourself, for the joy of it. The goal isn’t to make something that everyone will love, but to be in “that wonderful state which makes art inevitable.” This means focusing on the process and the satisfaction of creating, rather than worrying about whether your work will be accepted or not.
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Ready to find your own creative voice? Get For Artists and Art Lovers: A Handbook today and start your journey toward more meaningful creation.
