HelenVanWyk.Com

What she's done for years on television, Helen Van Wyk does in her book, "Welcome to my Studio". She invites artists into her studio to acquaint them with the principles of painting. Helen's instruction is as clear as her art is beautiful. Truly a colorful, practical, fruitful "visit" for an oil painter. This is a comprehensive text for painters of all skill levels. Many photos in full-color of Helen’s own works, from initial sketches to completed paintings. In the introduction to this book, Helen Van Wyk says, "Anyone can paint." It's true. You don't need talent or permission, just a desire to try. From this book's table of contents one can see the value of the instruction that has come from her many years as a painter and a teacher. Some of the chapters include: Making the subject fit the canvas. Reflections in water and other shiny surfaces. How to paint glass. The techniques of the Old Masters. These are but a few, of the many chapters in this valuable book. While it's true that "Anyone can paint", the instruction in "Welcome to My Studio" will help you to paint better.
112pp
146 color illustrations
90 b&w illustrations.

This is one of many books by the late Helen Van Wyk, all of which are very good. She has the gift of a teacher who can convey ideas simply and clearly. The book is filled with pages of examples in color which are practical and immediately useful. She gives examples of dozens and dozens of items and how to paint them. This is a great resource book for the artist. Delicious color mixing "recipes" for capturing the dewy look of roses, barns in early morning light, delicate skin tones, and 80 other favorite subjects! Each "recipe" is delivered on one or two pages and illustrated with Helen's vibrant paintings. You'll also receive her brief, practical summaries of 42 colors ... what subjects they're particularly suited for, their shortcomings and, when appropriate, how to mix them using your basic palette.
144pp

In this practical guide to color from one of America's best known artists, color mixing is explained clearly. Oil and acrylic painters will learn how to put color theory into action. This book is a tremendous help to the artist struggling with color composition.
128pp
230 color illustrations
15 b&w illustrations

Helen Van Wyk expands on her classic teachings about color mixing with this in-depth manual for oil painters. Step by step, she demonstrates how to build dynamic color compositions through logic and understanding rather than guesswork. Topics include warm and cool relationships, value control, neutralization, and the physical behavior of pigments in mixture. The book also features numerous color charts and full-color reproductions showing how her methods translate directly to finished works. A valuable reference for artists striving for confident, accurate, and expressive color in oil painting.
128pp
230 color illustrations

This book compiles Helen Van Wyk’s clear and practical responses to hundreds of questions from artists around the country. Organized alphabetically, it provides direct answers to common painting problems concerning brushes, color mixing, composition, light, perspective, and portraiture. Helen’s concise explanations and diagrams show how to resolve technical issues while strengthening artistic judgment. Both beginners and experienced painters will appreciate the insight and encouragement that made Helen an enduring teacher and mentor.
198pp
Illustrated throughout in color and black & white